Latest news with #Durga
Hans India
3 days ago
- Politics
- Hans India
Unfazed by terror threat, devotees flock to Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela in Kashmir
Ganderbal: As the sacred annual Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela draws near, large numbers of pilgrims have begun arriving in Jammu and Kashmir's Ganderbal district, undeterred by the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. With unwavering faith in the Indian Armed Forces, devotees, particularly from the Kashmiri Pandit community, are preparing to celebrate one of their most revered festivals on June 3 at the historic temple of Ragnya Devi in Tullamulla. The shrine, dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi -- a reincarnation of Goddess Durga -- becomes a focal point of religious fervour each year as devotees from across India and abroad converge for the Mela. Despite heightened tensions following the brutal April 22 Pahalgam terror incident, the spirit of the pilgrims remains unshaken. Extensive security arrangements have been deployed across the region to ensure the safety of the devotees. Authorities have assured that all necessary measures -- including drinking water supply and essential amenities -- are in place to provide a worry-free experience for pilgrims. Kashmiri Pandits, many of whom were displaced during the 1990 exodus, have expressed that their devotion remains stronger than ever. They also lauded the Indian government and armed forces for launching 'Operation Sindoor' in response to the Pahalgam attack, calling it a fitting reply to Pakistan-backed terrorism. "The terrorists tried to spread fear, but our devotion has only grown," said a pilgrim from Chandigarh, speaking to IANS. "They want to derail tourism, but Kashmir is a part of India. We will keep coming here. No one can frighten us." Another devotee, Sunita, who migrated to Delhi during the 1990s, expressed deep emotional resonance on returning to the shrine for the first time. "We're not scared even after the terror attack. Mata Kheer Bhawani called us. We are here because of her and because of PM Modi. This is all possible because of him," she told IANS. Umar Raina, another pilgrim, told IANS, "We only pray that Kashmiri Pandits are able to come back to their motherland. We want peace to prevail in Kashmir and to return to our homes." Sharing similar sentiments, Shriti Dhar, a regular visitor to the Mela, said, "Our armed forces have always protected us. We are proud of them. The arrangements this year are really good. We've witnessed violence since our childhood, and the Indian Armed Forces have always been our shield." Meanwhile, top officials, including IGP Jammu and Kashmir Police, DC Jammu Sachin, and Relief Commissioner Arvind, flagged off the Mata Kheer Bhawani Yatra in Jammu.
Hans India
4 days ago
- Politics
- Hans India
J&K: Sufficient security in place for Kheer Bhawani festival
Srinagar: Adequate security arrangements have been put in place for the upcoming Mela Kheer Bhawani in J&K's Ganderbal district, an official said on Saturday. The annual Mela of Mata Kheer Bhawani, being celebrated on June 3, is the holiest local festival for the Kashmir Pandit community. The spring shrine in Tullamulla town of Ganderbal district, 25 km from Srinagar city, is dedicated to the deity Ragnya Devi, the reincarnation of goddess Durga. Local Kashmiri Pandits believe that the colour of the water at the goddess's spring in Tullamulla foretells the coming events in J&K and the rest of the country. The pink or milky colour of the spring water is believed to be suspicious, while the dark black colour spells bad days ahead. Elders in Tullamulla town say that in 1947, when the tribals invaded Kashmir, the water at the deity's spring had turned black. V.K. Birdi, IGP (Kashmir), visited the temple shrine on Saturday to take stock of the security arrangements for hundreds of Kashmiri Pandit devotees who come to the shrine from different parts of the country. The IGP told reporters at the shrine that comprehensive preparations have been made to ensure a safe and smooth event for devotees. He said that a large number of pilgrims are expected to attend the festival. 'Extensive arrangements have been made to ensure that the devotees do not face any inconvenience and their security remains a top priority. Robust deployment and logistical support are in place to manage the crowd efficiently,' he said. In response to concerns arising from the recent Pahalgam attack, the IGP emphasised that the security setup for such events is always meticulously reviewed and reinforced. He reassured that measures adopted during last year's mela, which saw an incident-free gathering, would be mirrored and further strengthened this year. He further added that similar vigilance is being implemented for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, with routine threat assessments and area sanitisation underway. 'We remain committed to the safety of every pilgrim', the IGP added.
India.com
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- India.com
'I' For Incredible: 7 Baby Names With Meaning
Muskan Kalra May 30, 2025 It means Goddess Durga also a divine and unique name gaining popularity. Ira means Earth, Muse, or Goddess Saraswati. Short, elegant, and meaningful. It means conqueror of Indra and a mythological warrior from the Ramayana. Ishita means desire, greatness, or mastery. A name with a strong and graceful tone. Ivaan means God's gracious and glorious gift. Modern yet rooted in Sanskrit origin. Ishaan means Sun, Lord Shiva, or the northeast direction. A popular and powerful name. It means beauty or splendor and another name for Goddess Lakshmi. Read Next Story
Hindustan Times
5 days ago
- General
- Hindustan Times
A vedic astrologer says, 5 upcoming festivals may bring positive impacts from May 30-June 5, 2025
A series of powerful spiritual festivals are lining up this week from May 30 to June 5, 2205. According to Vedic astrologer Neeraj Dhankher, this week could be filled with blessings, growth, and new beginnings. Also Read Weekly Panchang for May 30- June 5, 2025: Venus Transit Aries, Ganga Dussehra, Auspicious Muhuratas When festivals line up like this, it's as if the cosmos is giving us multiple windows of divine grace. If you align your actions with these energies, you'll likely feel more supported, clearer in mind, and spiritually protected. Let's take a look at astrology events that are likely to bring positive energy for you. This day is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. It's a great time to begin something new, whether it's a job application, a project, or a personal goal. People often fast or offer modaks to invite blessings. According to Neeraj, ' It's a favourable day for new beginnings and seeking divine blessings". On this day, Lord Kartikeya is worshipped, known for defeating demons and bringing light to the world. It's a reminder to face your fears and stand up for what's right. This day is 'the victory of good over evil and encourages spiritual courage and righteousness,' says Neeraj. This is a double-powered day. Dhumavati, the goddess who teaches detachment and clarity through life's tough times, is honoured. Alongside that, Masik Durgashtami calls in the fierce, protective power of Goddess Durga. 'Occurring on the eighth day of the waxing moon, it's a powerful day for invoking Durga's protection, strength, and grace', says Neeraj. This day is about Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It's mostly celebrated by the Maheshwari community and is deeply rooted in family values and spiritual discipline. According to Neeraj, it's a day to focus on your home, your people, and to pray for peace and strength. Ganga Dussehra is celebrated on Jyeshtha Shukla Dashami. This festival celebrates the sacred descent of the River Ganga. Traditionally, people take a holy dip or offer water, praying for healing and forgiveness. Choose sun sign to read horoscope
India.com
6 days ago
- Lifestyle
- India.com
Baby Names That Symbolize Strength And Courage
Anaika Sohal May 28, 2025 A baby boy name from the Sanskrit origin, which means brave or warrior, and symbolizes courage. This powerful name is named after the Hindu goddess durga, and it represents fierce strength and protection from evil. This name is derived from the heroic warrior from the Mahabharata and it symbolizes moral strength and focus. It means first or primordial power, and another name for Goddess Durga. A classic baby name which means prowess or valor and is often associated with kings and warriors in Indian history. A baby girl name which is linked to the goddess Durga and it symbolizes strength and fearlessness. This baby boy name is associated with Lord Shiva, and it means roarer or mighty storm, reflecting power and fierce energy. Read Next Story
