Mela Kheer Bhawanifestival was celebrated inJammu & KashmironZeasht Ashtami. In 2019, the day fell onJune 10.The devotees prayed at the famousRagnya Devi templeinGanderbal district, J&K.
Zyestha Ashtami is celebrated by Kashmiri Pandits across the country and outside as the day marks commencing ofannual pilgrimage.
Mela Kheer Bhawani:
Kheer Bhawaniis a temple that is dedicated to theGoddess Kheer Bhavaniconstructed over a sacred spring. Kheer Bhawani Mela is one of the biggestreligious functionsof displaced community of Kashmiri Pandits, who were forcefully evicted from Valley in 1990s by militants.
The devotees carry rose petals, walk barefoot, and offer tribute to goddess and offer milk and kheer (pudding) at sacred spring. It is believed that thecolour of the springwhich flows below temple willindicate of the valley’s well-being.
