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Key Points

The Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, along with the DGP, Nalin Prabhat, have reviewed the security arrangements for the upcoming Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela. This annual festival, commencing on June 3, holds significant cultural and spiritual value, especially for the Kashmiri Pandit community. The security measures reviewed aim to ensure a peaceful and incident-free pilgrimage. The festival features unique traditions, such as the interpretation of the spring's colors, echoing the region's rich cultural tapestry.

Key Points: Atal Dulloo and Nalin Prabhat Secure Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela

  • Atal Dulloo and Nalin Prabhat review security ahead of the festival
  • DGP and Chief Secretary offer prayers, ensuring cultural significance
  • Devotees believe the spring's color foretells yearly events
  • The festival is a major event for the Kashmiri Pandit community
2 min read

J&K Chief Secy, DGP review security for Mata Kheer Bhawani festival in Ganderbal

J&K's Atal Dulloo and Nalin Prabhat review security measures at Ganderbal for the annual Mata Kheer Bhawani festival commencing June 3.

"Adequate security measures have been ensured for a safe, peaceful Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela. - Atal Dulloo"

Srinagar, June 1

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo and Director General of Police (DGP), Nalin Prabhat on Sunday reviewed the security ahead of the annual Mata Kheer Bhawani festival in Tullamulla town of Ganderbal district.

Officials said that in preparation for the upcoming Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela at Tullamulla town of Ganderbal, DGP, Nalin Prabhat visited the deity’s temple on Sunday to assess the security arrangements. The annual festival starts on June 3.

Accompanied by the DIG (Central Kashmir), SSP Ganderbal, and SSP Traffic Rural, the DGP reviewed the on-ground situation to ensure a peaceful and incident-free pilgrimage.

Later in the day, Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo also arrived at the temple to inspect the preparations.

Speaking to media persons, the chief secretary said: "All the arrangements have been put in place. Adequate security measures have also been ensured for the safe and peaceful commencement of the Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela."

Both the DGP and the Chief Secretary offered prayers at the temple, highlighting the cultural and spiritual significance of the event.

Officials reiterated their commitment to providing a smooth and secure experience for all devotees attending the annual pilgrimage.

The Mela, one of the most important religious gatherings for the Kashmiri Pandit community, attracts devotees from across the country.

Dedicated to Mata Ragnya, believed to be the reincarnation of goddess Durga, the temple shrine has a sacred spring. Devotees believe that the colour of the spring water on the annual festival foretells the coming events of the year.

Elders in Tullamulla town say that in 1947, when the tribal raiders invaded Kashmir, the colour of the spring water was dark black. Pink or milky colour are believed to be auspicious.

Legend has it that, annoyed by the licentious deeds of Ravana, Mata Ragnya directed Hanuman to relocate her deity to Tullamulla town from Sri Lanka.

Muslims of Tullamulla town serve milk in earthen pots to the Kashmiri Pandit devotees on their arrival at the temple shrine.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

Here are 6 diverse user comments reflecting Indian perspectives on the article:
R
Rahul K.
Good to see such thorough security arrangements for this sacred festival. The Mata Kheer Bhawani mela is not just religiously significant but also a beautiful example of Kashmir's syncretic culture. Hope the administration maintains this level of commitment for all pilgrimages 🙏
P
Priya M.
The tradition of local Muslims serving milk to Pandit devotees warms my heart! This is the real Kashmiriyat we need to celebrate. Though security is necessary, I wish someday we won't need such heavy arrangements for religious events in J&K.
A
Amit S.
While security is important, I hope the administration also focuses on improving basic facilities for pilgrims - clean toilets, drinking water, and medical aid. These aspects often get neglected in our religious gatherings.
N
Neha T.
The legend about the spring water changing color is fascinating! Does anyone know what color it was last year? Hoping for pink/milky color this time for peace and prosperity in the region 🌸
V
Vikram J.
The DGP and CS visiting personally shows the importance of this event. However, I wish media would also cover how many Kashmiri Pandits have returned to the valley permanently, not just during festivals. That's the real measure of normalcy.
S
Sunita R.
My grandmother used to tell me stories about this temple when I was a child. So happy to see the traditions being kept alive despite all challenges. Jai Mata Di! May the festival bring happiness to all communities in Kashmir.

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