Srinagar, Jun 22 : Thousands of devotees from Jammu and Kashmir and different parts of the country gathered at the Kheer Bhawani temple in Tulmulla village of Ganderbal district on Monday to participate in the annual mela held on the occasion of Jyeshtha Ashtami.
Devotees started arriving at the shrine early in the morning and offered prayers at the temple dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi, popularly known as Mata Kheer Bhawani. The shrine witnessed heavy footfall throughout the day as worshippers sought blessings for peace, prosperity and well-being.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also visited the shrine and paid obeisance on the occasion. Officials said he prayed for the welfare of the people and the progress of the Union Territory.
The annual mela is one of the most significant religious events for the Kashmiri Pandit community and attracts devotees from various regions every year.
Several pilgrims expressed happiness over participating in the festival and described the occasion as an important link to their cultural and religious heritage.
Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore, said elaborate arrangements had been put in place for the smooth conduct of the mela. He said facilities related to security, traffic management, healthcare, sanitation and drinking water were made available for devotees visiting the shrine.
Senior police and civil administration officials remained present to oversee the arrangements.
The Kashmir police also extended greetings to devotees and expressed hope that the festival would strengthen communal harmony, peace and brotherhood in the region.
Authorities said the mela concluded peacefully amid tight security and coordinated efforts by various government departments.(KNS)
