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Kheer Bhawani Mela and Temple
Context
The annual Kheer Bhawani Mela pilgrimage by Kashmiri Pandits to Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple amid heightened security concerns following a recent terror attack in Kashmir. Despite challenges, the community's faith and resilience remain strong, supported by extensive security measures and government facilitation to ensure a safe religious gathering.
Kheer Bhawani Mela and Temple
- Location and Significance:
- The Kheer Bhawani Temple is located in the north-eastern region of Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.
- It is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Kheer Bhawani (Mata Ragnya Devi), holding deep cultural and religious significance for Kashmiri Pandits.
- The temple is situated near the Kheer Bhawani Spring (Syendh), which is distinct from the Sindhu (Indus) River.
- The Kheer Bhawani Mela:
- Celebrated annually on the auspicious day of Jyeshtha Ashtami by Kashmiri Pandits who make a pilgrimage to the temple.
- It is one of the largest Hindu gatherings in Kashmir, second only to the Amarnath Yatra.
- Over time, the Mela has also become a symbol of communal harmony and fraternity in the region.
- Unique Architectural Features:
- Under Maharaja Ranbir Singh’s reign (1830-1885), a temple was constructed on an island at the spring.
- It uniquely houses both a Shiva Linga and an idol of the goddess within a lofty chamber inside the spring — a rare religious amalgamation.
- The temple complex includes a septa-gonal spring known for changing colors (red, pink, orange, green, blue, white), although most colors do not have symbolic significance.
- Historical and Cultural References:
- Mentioned in ancient texts such as:
- Kalhana’s Rajtarangini: Describes the sacred spring called Tula Mula, historically submerged by floods in a marshy region.
- Bhrigu Samhita: Another ancient reference to the temple and spring.
- Abu’l-Fazl’s Ain-i-Akbari: Details the Tula Mula area, describing the flooding during summer that submerged parts of the temple grounds.
- Renovations and Preservation:
- The present-day structure of the spring, temple pond, and temple was built in the early 20th century under Maharaja Pratap Singh and further renovated by Maharaja Hari Singh.
- The temple premises are surrounded by ancient Chinar trees, adding to its serene
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