Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Minister Omar Abdullah checked on preparations for upcoming Kheer Bhawani mela Thursday, June 18,2026,at Mata Kheer Bhawani shrine in Ganderbal district. This pilgrimage draws thousands of displaced Kashmiri Pandits. Abdullah's visit aimed to ensure everything was ready for June 22 event .
Abdullah addressed priests' and shrine officials' concerns,pushing administration to fix issues before festival starts. Water shortages top list,which he promised to tackle. “Both as Chief Minister and local MLA,I came to see arrangements firsthand,” he said.
Kheer Bhawani mela holds deep meaning for Kashmiri Pandits,who once prayed on holy ‘Zyeshth Ashtami’ day at shrine before 1989. But festival's spirit faded after many Pandits fled due to rising militancy. This year, officials expect more attendees,thanks to a successful tour by Pandit groups. Led by Dr . Surinder Koul of Global Kashmiri Pandit Diaspora, tour assessed current situation and drop in violence.
‘Praagaash’ initiative,backed by eight Pandit groups globally, focuses on dialogue,cultural preservation,community empowerment. Seen as a hopeful sign for future of community in Kashmir.
Meanwhile, former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti met with Amarnath yatra stakeholders,urging hospitality during pilgrimage. She asked local service providers to build trust and understanding. “Yatra is chance to connect with people from across India,” Mufti said,stressing kindness should counter prejudice.
Mufti sees pilgrimage as more than just religious,hopes it strengthens ties between Kashmir and rest of India. Wants every visitor to leave with deeper appreciation of Kashmiri culture. “Let every devotee who visits Kashmir leave with deeper understanding of our values,our faith,our people,” she said.
Her message struck a chord — Yatra could turn mistrust into understanding,showing warmth of Kashmiris. “This is our chance to show true spirit of Islam and Kashmir,” she added,highlighting tradition of welcoming visitors with dignity and respect…
