Kheer Bhavani Temple
The Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple, located in Tulmul village of Ganderbal district, about 25 kilometers from Srinagar, is one of the most revered shrines for Kashmiri Hindus. Dedicated to Goddess Kshir Bhavani (Maha Ragnya Devi), this temple holds immense religious, historical, and cultural significance and is a central place of pilgrimage for the Kashmiri Pandit community.
Location and Origin of the Name
The temple is situated in the village of Tulmul, surrounded by lush greenery and serene landscapes. The name Kheer Bhawani originates from the offerings made to the deity, primarily kheer (a sweet rice pudding made with milk). The name Tulmul is believed to be derived from "Tulamulya," referring to the swampy and soft nature of the land.
Historical Significance and Development
The origins of the shrine are deeply rooted in mythology. According to legends, a pious Brahmin named Krishna Pandit discovered the sacred spring in a marshy area after being guided by divine intervention. It is believed that Goddess Kshir Bhavani chose this spot as her abode, and the spring became the center of worship.
During the reign of the Dogra rulers, the temple saw significant development. Maharaja Pratap Singh built the main marble temple and enhanced the surroundings, while Maharaja Hari Singh constructed a platform around the temple to protect it. Over the years, various devotees have contributed to the upkeep and expansion of the temple.
Temple Structure
The temple is built on a small island in the center of a sacred spring (nag) surrounded by a canal fed by the Sindh River. The spring is heptagonal in shape, symbolizing the mystical energies of the Goddess. The main temple, made of white marble, houses the idol of Raj Rajeshwari Maha Ragnya along with Bhuteshvara.
The temple's structure includes:
Four marble pillars supporting a protective platform.
Silver umbrellas and flags presented by devotees.
A shikhar (spire) on the temple’s summit.
Stone-paved floors and walls enclosing the spring.
Rituals and Worship
Devotees offer milk, sugar, and rice to the sacred spring as a form of devotion. The spring's waters are believed to reflect the mood of the Goddess, changing color to indicate her blessings or displeasure. The Zyeshta Ashtami festival, held on the eighth day of the waxing moon in the month of Zyeshta (May-June), attracts thousands of pilgrims who gather to worship and seek blessings.
Legends and Mystical Beliefs
The temple is steeped in fascinating legends:
Divine Protection: When Swami Vivekananda visited the temple in 1898, he experienced a vision of the Goddess assuring him of her divine will and presence despite historical upheavals.
Mystic Shri Chakras: The spring is said to reflect patterns of Shri Chakras, believed to symbolize the Mother Goddess and her energies.
Sacred Origins: A serpent is believed to have guided the Brahmin Krishna Pandit to the sacred site, marking the area where the Goddess resides.
Challenges and Resilience
During Islamic rule, Hindus feared visiting the shrine, and the temple fell into disrepair. It was rediscovered about 350 years ago by Krishna Pandit Tapilu, after which it regained its status as a sacred site. In more recent times, the temple has faced neglect but continues to be a beacon of faith for Kashmiri Hindus.
Associated Sites
Near the temple, there are:
A ziarat (shrine) of Mir Baba Haider.
The samadhi of Shri Labhu Shah, a saint who lived for 150 years.
Cultural and Spiritual Relevance
The Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple is an integral part of the cultural and spiritual life of Kashmir. Prominent saints like Swami Vivekananda, Swami Ram Tirth, and Adi Shankaracharya have visited the shrine, enhancing its spiritual importance. The annual Kheer Bhawani Mela, which sees a massive turnout of devotees, is a testament to the enduring faith and reverence for the Goddess.
Conclusion
The Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple stands as a symbol of devotion, resilience, and the rich cultural heritage of Kashmiri Hindus. Its serene setting, mystical legends, and historical significance make it not only a place of worship but also a beacon of spirituality and hope for countless devotees.