The annual Kheer Bhawani Mela is set to commence on June 3, 2025, at the revered Kheer Bhawani Temple, also known as Ragnya Devi temple, located in Tulmulla, Ganderbal district of the Kashmir Valley, approximately 25 kilometers from Srinagar. Despite a climate of prevailing fear following recent terror incidents, including the deadly Pahalgam attack and India's subsequent retaliatory Operation Sindoor, preparations are in full swing, and authorities have implemented extensive security measures to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of this significant pilgrimage.

Devotees, including a large number of Kashmiri Pandits, are flocking to the shrine, demonstrating unwavering faith and resilience. Many pilgrims expressed that such acts of terror cannot deter their devotion. Rajesh Jyotsi, a devotee, stated, "Mata Kheer Bhawani is our Kul Devi, and it's our sacred duty to visit her. We don't fear anything--this is our land. Attacks like these keep happening, but the arrangements here are excellent. I urge everyone to come and seek blessings." Similarly, Saroj, a first-time visitor, shared, "This is my first visit. I had heard a great deal about this place. We are not afraid; these attacks are only meant to instil fear, and we must stand strong. I am not scared. There is no fear in visiting 'Mata'."

Rakesh Kaul, another devotee, highlighted the deep emotional and age-old connection the Kashmiri Pandit community shares with Mata Kheer Bhawani. "Our connection with Mata Kheer Bhawani is age-old. We wait the entire year for this visit. People from across India are coming despite the prevailing fear of the last 36 years. The situation remains tough, but our faith in God is stronger," he said, encouraging those spiritually inclined to come and experience the pilgrimage.

To facilitate the pilgrimage, authorities have made elaborate logistical and security arrangements. Deputy Commissioner Jammu Sachin Kumar and Jammu IGP Bhim Singh flagged off over 60 buses carrying devotees from Jammu. Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner Arvind Karwani confirmed that the government has ensured comprehensive facilities, including food, medical assistance, sanitation, and accommodation. A halt facility with food and toilet amenities has also been set up in Ramban for the pilgrims. Jammu SSP Joginder Singh reiterated that all necessary security and other arrangements were in place to ensure a peaceful and smooth yatra, extending his best wishes to the pilgrims.

The district administration has also made provisions for living arrangements, a 10-bedded hospital for any medical needs, and robust security measures involving paramilitary forces to safeguard devotees en route and at the temple premises. More buses are being added to accommodate the influx of pilgrims, and transport facilities have been arranged for people displaced from Jammu.

The Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela holds profound religious significance. 'Kheer,' a traditional milk and rice pudding, is offered to propitiate the goddess, Ragnya Devi. Kheer Bhawani, sometimes translated as 'Milk Goddess,' is worshipped universally by the Hindus of Kashmir, many of whom regard her as their protective patron deity, or Kuladevi.

The heightened security comes in the wake of the tragic Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 at Baisaran meadow, where terrorists targeted tourists, resulting in the deaths of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepalese citizen. The victims were picked on based on their religion. This attack was one of the deadliest in the region since the 2019 Pulwama strike, which claimed the lives of 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel. In response, India conducted Operation Sindoor on May 7, carrying out precision strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). India also effectively responded to subsequent Pakistani aggression and pounded its airbases.

Despite these challenging circumstances, the authorities remain committed to the safe and successful conduct of the Kheer Bhawani Mela, allowing devotees to observe their religious duties with peace of mind. The large turnout of pilgrims underscores a collective spirit of faith that transcends fear.