Kheer Bhawani Temple - Jammu and Kashmir

The Kheer Bhawani Temple is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in India. It is dedicated to the Goddess Ragnya Devi, also known as Kheer Bhawani, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga.

Location
The temple is situated in the village of Tulmulla, which is approximately 27 kilometers away from Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated in the Ganderbal district, near the banks of the Kheer Bhawani stream. The temple is surrounded by a sacred spring, which is believed to possess healing properties.

Importance and Significance
1. Kashmiri Pandits: The Kheer Bhawani Temple holds immense importance for Kashmiri Pandits, who consider it as one of their holiest shrines. They believe that the goddess blesses and protects them.
2. Annual Pilgrimage: Every year, on the eighth day of the Hindu month of Jyeshtha (May/June), a grand festival is held at the temple. Devotees from various parts of India, especially Kashmiri Pandits, gather here to seek the blessings of the goddess. This festival is known as Kheer Bhawani Mela.
3. Sacred Spring: The temple is known for its sacred spring, which changes its color, indicating the future events and welfare of Kashmir. The spring is believed to be a manifestation of the goddess herself.

Legend
According to popular belief, the Kheer Bhawani Temple was originally located in the city of Srinagar. However, due to the atrocities committed by the Mughal ruler Aurangzeb, the goddess appeared in a dream to a Kashmiri Pandit and instructed him to move her idol to Tulmulla to escape destruction.

Architecture
The Kheer Bhawani Temple is a beautiful structure with traditional Kashmiri architecture. The main shrine is built on a square platform and is surrounded by a spacious courtyard. The temple complex also includes several smaller shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities.

Conclusion
The Kheer Bhawani Temple in Jammu and Kashmir is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site, known for its historical and religious significance. It attracts devotees from far and wide, who come to seek the blessings of Goddess Ragnya Devi. The temple's location, annual festival, and sacred spring make it a unique and important place of worship for Kashmiri Pandits and devotees of Hinduism.