Embarking on The Sacred Journey: Discovering Blessings and Tranquility at Kheer Bhawani Temple in Kashmir

Rinzen Kaul (Age 11)

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the enchanting region of Kashmir during the summer holidays. Amidst the captivating allure of Srinagar, Pahalgam and Gulmarg, one particular destination stood out – the Kheer Bhawani Temple also called as Tulla Mulla.  As a Kashmiri, this sacred place holds deep significance for our community, as we revere the goddess ‘Kheer Bhawani,’ also known as Ma Ragnya Devi – an incarnation of Goddess Durga.’ My parents decided to plan a trip to seek the blessings of Ma Kheer Bhawani for my little brother, who had not yet started speaking coherently, much to my annoyance. 

As a Kashmiri Pandit, we have stayed connected to our roots. My family has a long history in Kashmir and have cherished our cultural heritage. One of the most important aspects of our culture is our faith in the goddess Kheer Bhawani. This was a special trip for us, as it was the first time in 33 years that my parents had been to the temple.

The journey to the temple, which took around 45 minutes by car from our hotel, was filled with anticipation and excitement. Upon arrival, we embarked on a short walk along narrow paths, leading us to a bridge where we left our shoes, adhering to the customary practice of maintaining cleanliness in holy places. Surrounded by the beauty of Mother Nature, we were greeted by a small pool with milky light blue water. In the center stood an imposing statue of Ma Kheer Bhawani. There are numerous legends about the mystical properties of the water, which could supposedly change colours to predict the future. For instance, a shift from milky light blue to red was believed to foretell a significant loss of life, while a transformation to black hinted at the possibility of a deadly disease or virus outbreak.

As an enthusiast of Hindu mythology, I found myself captivated by the stories and folklore associated with the temple and its deity. Our spiritual journey continued with prayers, during which the priest offered us sugar moulds, locally known as ‘Kand,’ to cast into the pool. My father also presented some sacred water as an offering.

Amidst the rituals, my father recited mantras that resonated with a sense of peace and serenity. Surprisingly, the temple premises were relatively quiet, contrary to my mother’s expectations. Nonetheless, Kheer Bhawani Temple managed to hold me in awe, and I found myself utterly at peace and far from being bored during our visit.

With its spiritual aura and calming ambiance, I wholeheartedly recommend Kheer Bhawani Temple to anyone planning to visit Kashmir. The experience not only instils a sense of deep reverence but also offers a connection to the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology.

My journey to the Kheer Bhawani Temple was indeed a soul-enriching experience. The blessings sought for my little brother’s speech were undoubtedly cherished, but what remained with me was the tranquillity and inner peace that the temple exuded. If you ever find yourself in the mesmerizing land of Kashmir, do not miss the opportunity to visit Kheer Bhawani Temple; it promises to leave an indelible impression on your heart and soul.