𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐟𝐲 𝐅𝐞𝐚𝐫, 𝐅𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐊𝐡𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐡𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐢

Despite the lingering fear following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, large numbers of devotees—especially Kashmiri Pandits—are making their way to the revered Mata Kheer Bhawani temple in Kashmir, reaffirming that their devotion remains unshaken.

The annual Kheer Bhawani Mela is set to commence on June 3, 2025, at the sacred shrine in Tulmulla, Ganderbal district. Authorities have put comprehensive security and logistical plans in place to ensure the smooth execution of the pilgrimage.

Devotees voiced strong faith in their spiritual journey. “Mata Kheer Bhawani is our Kul Devi, and we must visit her. These attacks don’t deter us—this is our land. The arrangements are excellent,” said Rajesh Jyotsi, a regular pilgrim.

First-time visitor Saroj shared similar thoughts: “I was determined to visit despite the recent attack. We cannot let fear overpower faith. Mata protects us.”

Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner Arvind Karwani assured that the government has provided all essential services, including food, sanitation, medical aid, and lodging. “We’ve also set up a halt point at Ramban with proper arrangements. Over 60 buses are deployed, and more will be added,” he stated.

Jammu SSP Joginder Singh confirmed that tight security measures are in place and conveyed his best wishes to pilgrims.

Rakesh Kaul, another devotee, emphasized the deep spiritual connection of the Kashmiri Pandit community with the temple. “Our faith in Mata Kheer Bhawani is centuries old. Even after 36 years of unrest, our bond remains intact. The situation is challenging, but our devotion is unwavering.”

The mela is held annually at the historic Ragnya Devi temple in Tulmulla, 25 km from Srinagar. Devotees offer kheer (a sweet made of milk and rice) to the goddess, which symbolizes purity and devotion. The goddess is revered as the Kuladevi (family deity) by many Kashmiri Hindus.

This year’s event is taking place against the backdrop of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, where 26 people, including a Nepalese national, were killed in a targeted strike on tourists. It marked one of the worst such incidents since the 2019 Pulwama attack.

In retaliation, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, conducting precise strikes on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). India also responded strongly to any Pakistani provocation in the aftermath.