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Khir Bhawani – Hindu Goddess Kheer Bhawani - The Sacred Goddess Of Kashmir

Hindu Goddess Khir Bhawani is an incarnation of Goddess Shakti and in this form she is worshipped in an important Shaktipeetah in Jammu and Kashmir. The popular belief is that this form of Goddess Shakti was worshipped by Ravana and the Goddess deserted him and took her home in Kashmir. Here Mother Goddess is worshipped as Tripurasundari and as Rajni Bhagavati.

Khir Bhawani is also known as Shri Shyama. Legend has it that when Khir Bhawani decided to leave Lanka for Kashmir Valley, Lord Ram asked Hanuman to accompany her. The Goddess was in an angry form due to the evil acts of Ravana.

At the valley she was pacified by devotees by offer Khir – a form of sweet made from milk and sugar.

The temple of Khir Bhawani is located at Tulamulla, which about 22 km east of Srinagar.

Khir Bhawani, an incarnation of Goddess Shakti, is revered as a significant deity in Hinduism, especially in the northern Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. The goddess is worshipped primarily at her temple in Tulamulla, near Srinagar, a major pilgrimage site and one of the most important Shakti Peethas in the region. Her story is deeply interwoven with ancient Hindu epics and the lore of the land.

Divine Origin and Mythology

Khir Bhawani is considered a form of Goddess Tripurasundari, an aspect of the Supreme Goddess in Hinduism. Tripurasundari is revered as the epitome of divine feminine beauty, grace, and power. Another name for Khir Bhawani is Rajni Bhagavati, signifying her royal and divine essence.

  • Association with Ravana: According to legend, the goddess was initially worshipped by the demon king Ravana in Lanka (modern-day Sri Lanka). Ravana, despite being a devout follower and a scholar, committed many atrocities, including the abduction of Sita, the wife of Lord Rama. These actions displeased Khir Bhawani, who decided to leave Lanka as she could no longer tolerate the evil acts of Ravana.

  • Migration to Kashmir: It is believed that Lord Rama, understanding the goddess's anger and desire to leave Lanka, instructed his devoted servant Hanuman to accompany her. Hanuman, known for his unwavering devotion and strength, guided her to the serene Kashmir Valley. The valley’s beauty and tranquility helped soothe the goddess's anger.

  • Significance of Khir: The name "Khir Bhawani" itself is derived from the sweet rice pudding, 'Khir' (or 'Kheer'), which is made from milk, sugar, and rice. Devotees traditionally offer Khir to the goddess as it is believed to pacify her and earn her blessings. This offering underscores the deep cultural and religious significance of food in Hindu worship.

The Sacred Temple at Tulamulla

The temple of Khir Bhawani is situated in Tulamulla, about 22 km east of Srinagar. This temple is a prominent pilgrimage site and holds immense spiritual importance for Hindus, especially for the Kashmiri Pandits.

  • Temple Architecture and Setting: The temple is set amidst a natural spring, which is believed to change colors. Devotees interpret these colors as indicators of the goddess's mood and the future of the region. The changing colors of the spring are seen as divine signals, with clear water being auspicious and darker hues being interpreted as signs of impending trouble.

  • Festivals and Rituals: One of the most significant festivals at the temple is the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela, held on the day of Jyeshtha Ashtami (the eighth day of the bright half of the month of Jyeshtha in the Hindu calendar, usually in May or June). Thousands of devotees from all over the country visit the temple during this time to seek blessings and offer Khir to the goddess.

  • Cultural Integration: The temple not only serves as a spiritual center but also as a cultural symbol for the Kashmiri Pandit community. The temple and the goddess are seen as protectors and symbols of resilience, especially for those who have faced displacement and persecution.

Spiritual Significance

Khir Bhawani is more than just a deity; she represents the enduring spirit of the people of Kashmir. Her journey from Lanka to Kashmir symbolizes the movement of divine grace and protection from tumultuous times to peaceful sanctuaries. This transition is a metaphor for the soul's journey from turmoil to tranquility, guided by faith and devotion.

  • Shakti Worship: As an embodiment of Shakti, Khir Bhawani represents the dynamic energy that powers the universe. Worshipping her is believed to bestow strength, courage, and prosperity upon her devotees. Shakti worship is a central tenet of many Hindu traditions, emphasizing the divine feminine as the source of all creation and power.

  • Pilgrimage and Devotion: Visiting the temple is considered a transformative experience. Pilgrims often report a sense of deep peace and spiritual rejuvenation after paying their respects. The act of offering Khir and participating in the rituals at the temple strengthens their connection to the goddess and their cultural heritage.

Khir Bhawani’s temple in Tulamulla stands as a beacon of faith, history, and culture. It is a testament to the deep-rooted traditions of Hinduism in the Kashmir Valley and the enduring power of devotion. Her legend, from being worshipped by Ravana to finding solace in Kashmir, highlights the timeless journey of divine presence across the lands and hearts of her devotees.