Pilgrims Depart for Annual Kheer Bhawani Mela
Over 8,500 pilgrims, primarily Kashmiri Pandits, departed from Jammu on Saturday for the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela, scheduled for Monday at five Ragnya Bhagwati shrines across Kashmir. The most prominent of these shrines is located at Tulmulla in Ganderbal, with others at Manzgam and Devsar in Kulgam, Logripora in Anantnag, and Tikker in Kupwara.
According to an official, 214 buses carrying the pilgrims were flagged off by BJP’s Nagrota MLA Devyani Rana, marking the start of the annual yatra on Jyeshtha Ashtami. The official noted a significant rise in pilgrim registrations this year, attributing it to the peaceful atmosphere, strengthened security, and extensive arrangements in place.
Deployment and Coordination
The official further stated that relief and rehabilitation organisation officials have been deployed at Tulmulla, Tikker, Devsar-Manzgam, Logripora, and other pilgrimage destinations well in advance of the yatra. Their role is to oversee arrangements and coordinate among various departments to ensure a smooth pilgrimage.
The Kheer Bhawani Mela is a key religious event for Kashmiri Pandits, drawing thousands of devotees annually. The increased participation this year reflects improved conditions and confidence in the security measures provided by the authorities.
