SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha participated in the annual Mela Kheer Bhawani at the revered Kheer Bhawani Temple in Tulmulla, Ganderbal district, central Kashmir, on Monday. Thousands of devotees joined the Lieutenant Governor in observing Jyeshtha Ashtami, a significant religious festival for the Kashmiri Pandit community.
Devotees Pray for Peace and Prosperity
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the Lieutenant Governor offered prayers for peace, prosperity, and the general well-being of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The Kheer Bhawani shrine holds deep religious and cultural importance, drawing pilgrims from across the region and the country.
Speaking to reporters at the event, Mr. Sinha underscored the imperative of maintaining peace and communal harmony throughout Jammu and Kashmir. “Everyone prayed that peace and harmony remain in Jammu and Kashmir and that the blessings of Mata Kheer Bhawani be upon all,” he stated.
The Lieutenant Governor also commended the administrative and departmental efforts that ensured the smooth conduct of the annual mela. He expressed his appreciation for all the agencies involved in facilitating the pilgrimage and lauded the arrangements made for the devotees. “I would like to compliment all those involved for the excellent arrangements made for the devotees,” Mr. Sinha remarked.
Multi-Location Celebrations and Administrative Support
Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, also extended his greetings to the devotees on the occasion of Jyeshtha Ashtami. He informed that comprehensive arrangements were in place for pilgrims visiting Kheer Bhawani temples not only in Tulmulla but also in Mansgam, Devsar, Logripora, and Tikkar. Mr. Garg conveyed his best wishes to the devotees who had travelled from various parts of Jammu and Kashmir for the celebrations.
He assured that all necessary facilities had been arranged to ensure the smooth progression of the festivities, a practice consistent with previous years. The Divisional Commissioner expressed hope that the enduring tradition of Kashmir, characterized by the communal celebration of festivals in an atmosphere of harmony, brotherhood, and mutual respect, would continue to be preserved and strengthened.
The annual Mela Kheer Bhawani saw the participation of thousands of devotees amid stringent security measures and extensive logistical support provided by the administration. This event represents one of the most significant religious gatherings for the Kashmiri Pandit community in the Valley.
The Chenab Times News Desk