A scene from the Kheerbhawani-Kashmir on Jyeshta Ashtami[28th May’2023]
Ravi Speaks:
Yesterday, an extravagant festivity took place at the Kheer Bhawani Temple in Kashmir, marking the auspicious occasion of Jyeshta Ashtami. The temple grounds were adorned with vibrant embellishments and a kaleidoscope of flowers, creating an atmosphere brimming with merriment. Despite certain individuals expressing discontent over the authorities’ arrangements, the celebration unfolded in a joyous ambiance.
Devotees hailing mainly from Jammu and Delhi congregated at the temple, seeking the blessings of the presiding deity, Mata Ragnya Devi. The air reverberated with devotional hymns and chants as the devotees offered their prayers and engaged in rituals. Year after year, thousands of Kashmiri Pandits gather on this special day of Jyeshta Ashtami to commemorate Mata’s day.
The Kheer Bhawani Temple holds immense significance for the Kashmiri Pandit community and stands as one of the most sacred shrines in the region. It is believed that the goddess bestows her devotees with blessings and shields them from harm.
The highlight of the celebration was the special puja conducted by the temple priests. They meticulously performed intricate rituals, offering prayers and carrying out sacred rites to pay homage to the goddess. The devotees observed these rituals with utmost reverence and devotion, beseeching the deity for prosperity, well-being, and protection from malevolent forces.
The atmosphere brimmed with jubilation and enthusiasm as the devotees immersed themselves in the spiritual aura of the temple. Many individuals also partook in a communal feast organized as part of the festivities, relishing the delectable traditional Kashmiri cuisine served.
Following the unfortunate exodus of 1989-90, the Pandit community gradually resettled in different parts of the country, with a significant number initially finding refuge in Jammu. During that challenging phase, the resilient community raised substantial funds and constructed a faithful replica of the Mata Kheer Bhawani temple in Janipur, Jammu. This replica closely resembles the original temple. Yesterday, a large gathering of thousands assembled at this Jammu replica to celebrate Mata’s day with utmost zeal.
The celebration at the Kheer Bhawani Temple on Jyeshta Ashtami was a blissful occasion that brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of unity and devotion. It served as a poignant reminder of the rich cultural heritage and religious diversity that the region of Kashmir embraces.
#KheerBhawaniTemple #Kashmir #JyeshtaAshtami #Celebration#JammuKheerbhawanireplica