Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir : On the auspicious occasion of Mela Kheer Bhawani, held at the sacred Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple in Tullamulla, Ganderbal, former Chief Minister and President of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ms. Mehbooba Mufti, extends her heartfelt greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the Kashmiri Pandit community. This vibrant festival stands as a timeless testament to the enduring unity, harmony, and shared cultural heritage between Kashmiri Pandits and Muslims, showcasing their unbreakable bond to the world.
The Mela Kheer Bhawani, an annual festival dedicated to Goddess Kheer Bhawani, is one of the most revered spiritual events for Kashmiri Pandits, drawing thousands of devotees to the sacred shrine in Tullamulla. Despite the challenges faced by the region over the decades, this festival has remained a beacon of hope, resilience, and communal harmony. It serves as a powerful symbol of the deep-rooted connection between Kashmiri Pandits and Muslims, who have stood shoulder to shoulder through turbulent times, demonstrating a unity that transcends religious and cultural divides.
“Mela Kheer Bhawani is not just a religious event; it is a celebration of our shared heritage and the unbreakable bond between Kashmiri Pandits and Muslims. This festival reminds us of the values of love, compassion, and unity that define the soul of Kashmir. I pray for the dignified return of our Kashmiri Pandit brethren to their homeland and for lasting peace in our valley,” she said.
The festival has historically been a remarkable example of communal harmony. Even during the challenging years following the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from the Valley, local Kashmiri Muslims took on the responsibility of maintaining and protecting the Kheer Bhawani shrine, ensuring its sanctity was preserved. This act of care and devotion underscores the deep ties of mutual respect and coexistence that have defined the relationship between the two communities.
Reflecting on the festival’s historical significance, Ms. Mufti highlighted how Mela Kheer Bhawani has stood the test of time, weathering political and social upheavals to emerge as a symbol of resilience. “The Mela is a living testament to the syncretic culture of Kashmir, where Pandits and Muslims have always come together in prayer and celebration. This unity is our strength, and it sends a powerful message to the world that the spirit of Kashmiriyat remains undivided,” she added.
Mufti called upon the people of Jammu and Kashmir to actively participate in the festivities, embracing the spirit of inclusivity and brotherhood. She urged the younger generation to carry forward this legacy of unity, ensuring that the values of Kashmiriyat compassion, tolerance, and mutual respect continue to thrive.
