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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