Kashmiri Pandits celebrate Kheer Bhawani festival

Tulmulla (Kashmir): Kashmiri Pandits on Tuesday celebrated the annual Kheer Bhawani festival here -- a symbol of Hindu-Muslim amity -- even though their number was lesser compared to the last year because of bad weather in the Valley over the last few days.

Amid chants of Vedic hymns and ringing of bells, pilgrims prayed for peace in militancy-hit Jammu and Kashmir at the temple of 'Ragnya Devi' situated amid the majestic Chinar trees in this village of Ganderbal district. Walking barefoot and carrying rose petals, Kashmiri Pandits throng the temple every year and offer milk and "kheer" (pudding) to the sacred spring within the complex.

The traditional festival has continued uninterrupted even during the height of militancy and despite migration of Pandits from the Valley as they have been coming here every year from Jammu and other places.

Authorities assessed that between 20,000 to 30,000 people paid their respects at the famous temple this time, as compared to 60,000 last year on this day of annual fair.

The atmosphere was filled with fervour and brotherhood between Hindus and the Muslims. The fair is a symbol of centuries-old communal harmony and brotherhood as local Muslims make all arrangements for devotees and even set up stalls selling flowers and other material for the devotees to offer at the temple.