Kheer Bhavani Temple, Kashmir

Kheer Bhavani is situated at a distance of 27 km from Srinagar, in the village of Tulla Mulla. Chinar trees and beautiful streams surround this temple adding to its charm. The temple received its name from the fact that only kheer, an Indian sweet dish, and milk are given as offerings by the devotees here.

Originally constructed by Maharaja Pratap Singh in honour of Hindu goddess Devi Ragnya in the year 1912, the temple was later reconstructed by Maharaja Hari Singh. A hexagonal spring in the temple is believed to represent the goddess. Legend has it that Hindu deity, Rama, used this temple as a place of worship while in exile. After the banishment period was over, the Hindu monkey-god, Hanuman, was asked to shift the idol of the Goddess to Shadipora, where it currently is.

Locals believe that the colour of the kheer, which is normally white, turns black to indicate unexpected adversity. In the month of May, on the 8th day of the full moon, devotees in huge numbers gather here to offer their prayers. The Goddess is believed to change the colour of the water on this auspicious day. Jesht Ashtam and Shukla Paksh Ashtami are some of the popular festivals that are celebrated in this temple.