Kashmiri Pandit Pilgrimage Begins Amid Tight Security

Over 5,000 Kashmiri Pandits embarked on their four-day annual pilgrimage to the Kheer Bhawani mela, amid stringent security measures. The journey was flagged off by prominent officials in Jammu. Despite recent terror attacks, the devotees expressed enthusiasm, citing divine protection.

More than 5,000 Kashmiri Pandits commenced their annual pilgrimage to the Kheer Bhawani mela in Kashmir on Wednesday amidst tight security, officials reported. The pilgrimage was flagged off from Nagrota by Divisional Commissioner (Jammu) Ramesh Kumar, Relief Commissioner Dr. Arvind Karwani, and prominent community leaders.

The devotees, singing bhajans and chanting mantras, departed in 176 buses to visit five shrines in the Kashmir Valley.

Relief Commissioner Dr. Arvind Karwani assured that meticulous security arrangements are in place to ensure the pilgrimage's smooth conduct. Pilgrims will pause at Ramban for lunch.

Despite the recent terror attacks in the region, one devotee remarked, "We do not fear these terrorist attacks. How long will we remain in fear? We have Mata's protection." Kashmiri Pandits remain undeterred and are enthusiastic about participating in the pilgrimage.

The Jammu region has seen three terror attacks over the past few days, including an attack on a bus carrying pilgrims and assaults in Doda and Kathua districts. Pilgrims remain steadfast in their devotion.

This year, around 80,000 migrant Kashmiri Pandits from across India and abroad are expected to visit the five designated shrines in the Valley for the annual fair, celebrated on Zeisht Ashtami.

(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)