Kheer Bhawani Mela: LG Sinha, Farooq Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti join Kashmiri Pandits in festive spirit

ISHTIYAQ KAR

Srinagar June 03 (KINS): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, along with National Conference President Farooq Abdullah and PDP Chief Mehbooba Mufti, joined hundreds of Kashmiri Pandits in celebrating the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela on Tuesday at the revered Kheer Bhawani temple in Ganderbal district.

The event saw the participation of several cabinet ministers, senior officials, and devotees from across the region who gathered to pay their respects and offer prayers at the temple, which holds deep religious significance for the Kashmiri Pandit community.

“The devotees have come in large numbers to attend the Mela Kheer Bhawani. This is a good sign and this is the first time after April 22 that such a crowd has gathered at a place,” Sinha told reporters here after offering prayers at the Ragnya Devi temple here.

 LG assured that the administration has made good arrangements for the mela. “The work on yatri niwas is going on,” he added.

LG Sinha highlighted the administration’s commitment to ensuring the smooth conduct of the festival and providing necessary facilities for the devotees.

 “The Kheer Bhawani Mela is not only a religious event but also a symbol of Kashmir’s composite culture and brotherhood,” LG Sinha said. “The administration is making all efforts to facilitate the pilgrims and ensure their safety and convenience,” he said according to news agency KINS.

NC President Farooq Abdullah stated the festival’s importance in fostering communal harmony.

“This festival sends a message of unity and peace to all communities,” he said. “It is heartening to see so many people come together to celebrate this ancient tradition.”

PDP Chief Mehbooba Mufti also participated in the celebrations, urging for more inclusive measures to strengthen the bond between communities.

“The Kheer Bhawani Mela reflects our shared heritage,” she said. “We must do everything possible to protect and preserve it.”

“Kashmir issue can’t be solved without return of Kashmiri Pandits” Mehbooba added. (KINS)