SRINAGAR: The annual Mata Kheer Bhawani Yatra commenced on Saturday with around 8,500 pilgrims setting off from Jammu for various pilgrimage destinations across Kashmir ahead of the observance of Jyeshtha Ashtami.
A fleet of 214 buses carrying devotees was flagged off from Nagrota on the outskirts of Jammu, marking the formal beginning of the pilgrimage to the revered shrine of Mata Ragnya Devi at Tulmulla in Ganderbal district and other traditional religious sites in the Valley.
The annual pilgrimage is witnessing a notable increase in participation this year, with officials reporting a significant rise in registrations compared to previous years. Authorities attributed the higher turnout to improved security arrangements, extensive logistical preparations and the prevailing peaceful environment.
The Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela is being observed at several traditional pilgrimage centres, including Tulmulla in Ganderbal, Tikker in Kupwara, Devsar-Manzgam in Kulgam and Logripora in Anantnag district. The main congregation will take place at the historic shrine of Mata Ragnya Devi at Tulmulla, where thousands of devotees are expected to offer prayers.
Officials said special arrangements have been put in place at all major shrine locations to facilitate the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. Nodal and senior officers have been deployed at the various centres to coordinate arrangements and oversee facilities for devotees.
The pilgrimage, one of the most important religious events for the Kashmiri Pandit community, will culminate on June 22, coinciding with Jyeshtha Ashtami, when large numbers of devotees are expected to gather at the shrine complexes across Kashmir.
Authorities said the preparations involved coordinated efforts by the Relief and Rehabilitation Organisation, district administrations, security agencies and other departments to ensure the safe and orderly movement of pilgrims and the smooth conduct of the annual yatra.
In addition to those travelling in the organised convoy, many devotees are also expected to visit the shrines independently over the coming days.
