Mela Kheer Bhawani is one of the most revered and emotionally significant festivals of Kashmir, celebrated with deep devotion by the Kashmiri Pandit community. Held annually at the Kheer Bhawani Temple in Tulmulla village of Ganderbal district, near Srinagar, this sacred mela is dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi, the presiding deity of the temple. The festival usually takes place during Jyeshtha Ashtami (May–June), according to the Hindu lunar calendar.
The temple is uniquely built around a natural spring, whose water is believed to possess divine qualities. Devotees closely observe the color of the spring’s water, as changes in its hue are traditionally considered symbolic of future events or the well-being of the region. This belief adds a profound spiritual dimension to the festival, making it deeply rooted in Kashmir’s religious consciousness.
During Mela Kheer Bhawani, thousands of devotees from across India, including Kashmiri Pandits who return from different parts of the country, gather at the temple complex. The air resonates with Vedic chants, prayers, and hymns, creating a powerful atmosphere of devotion and spiritual unity. Elaborate rituals are performed by priests, and offerings are made to the goddess, the most important being kheer (sweet rice pudding), from which the festival derives its name.
The mela is not only a religious observance but also a cultural reunion for the Kashmiri Pandit community. Families come together to reconnect with their ancestral homeland, share traditional meals, and revive customs passed down through generations. Temporary stalls offering religious items, local food, and traditional crafts add a festive vibrancy to the otherwise serene temple surroundings.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Mela Kheer Bhawani is its role as a symbol of communal harmony in Kashmir. Local Muslim residents actively participate by helping with arrangements, security, and hospitality, reflecting Kashmir’s long-standing tradition of coexistence and mutual respect. This spirit of unity transforms the festival into a powerful message of peace and brotherhood.
Surrounded by chinar trees and lush greenery, the temple complex offers a tranquil setting that enhances the spiritual experience. The calm environment, combined with collective prayer and devotion, makes Mela Kheer Bhawani a deeply moving event for devotees and visitors alike.
Today, Mela Kheer Bhawani stands not just as a religious festival but as a living symbol of faith, resilience, cultural identity, and harmony. It represents the enduring connection of Kashmiri Pandits to their roots and highlights Kashmir’s rich spiritual heritage. For anyone seeking to understand the soul of Kashmir beyond its natural beauty, Mela Kheer Bhawani offers a profound glimpse into its traditions, beliefs, and timeless values.