The Mata Kheerbhawani temple in Tullamulla, Ganderbal, etched its name in history in 2024 as a record-breaking year for pilgrim visits. An astounding 2.14 lakh devotees flocked to the revered shrine, showcasing an unwavering spirit of faith and unity. This milestone, marking the highest attendance ever, underscores the temple’s enduring significance in India’s spiritual tourism landscape.
Devotees in Kheerbhawani in 2024
According to data accessed by the Samachar Post, a total of 214,181 devotees visited the temple from January to December 2024. This marked a monumental leap in attendance, surpassing all previous records. The year began modestly, with January recording 3,229 visitors, followed by a slight increase to 3,837 in February. However, the numbers skyrocketed during the spring and summer months, with March and April attracting 14,994 and 19,181 devotees, respectively.
The upward trajectory continued into May, which recorded 19,409 visitors. June marked the pinnacle of the pilgrimage season, with an unprecedented 70,285 devotees visiting the shrine. However, the numbers began to taper off in the latter half of the year. July saw 30,890 pilgrims, while August recorded 20,550. The final months showed a consistent decline: September had 10,880, October 10,707, November 5,450, and December concluded with 4,769 devotees.
The overwhelming influx of devotees was met with an equally robust response from the local community. Manzoor Ahmad, a long-time volunteer at the shrine, emphasized the dedication of Tullamulla’s residents in supporting pilgrims. “The locals, including shopkeepers, vendors, and all stakeholders, remain on their toes to ensure pilgrims receive the best support and services during their visit,” he said.
Manzoor also expressed optimism about the rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits (KPs) in the valley. “We have always shown peace, prosperity, and communal harmony toward all communities. Our hearts remain open for KPs to return to their homeland,” he added. Arif Ahmad, a young resident of Tullamulla, highlighted the spirit of unity that defined the 2024 pilgrimage season. “The influx of over 2.14 lakh devotees reflects the enduring spirit of brotherhood in the region. Muslims in the area make special arrangements for the annual festival, ensuring that every devotee feels welcome,” he shared.
Economic and Cultural Impact
The surge in pilgrims brought significant economic benefits to the region. Local shopkeepers, vendors, and small traders experienced a notable boost in business, with the annual influx of devotees serving as a critical source of livelihood. Civil Society Tullamulla emphasized the importance of administrative support to sustain this growth.
“Proper arrangements inside and outside the temple are crucial to enhancing the experience for pilgrims and preventing hardships during their visit,” a representative of the group stated. This includes better infrastructure, waste management, and adequate facilities for the ever-growing number of devotees.
Amid the increasing footfall, calls for sustainable practices have grown louder. Zahoor Ahmad Bhat, a local advocate for eco-friendly initiatives, stressed the importance of incorporating green measures. “Adopting strategies like waste management, solar-powered lighting, and renewable resources can enhance the shrine’s environmentally responsible image while preserving its sanctity,” he suggested.
Transforming Spiritual Tourism
Volunteer Manzoor Ahmad attributed the unprecedented surge in pilgrims to transformative changes in India’s spiritual tourism landscape. Improved infrastructure, better transportation, and the renovation of pilgrim sites have played a pivotal role in this growth.
“These advancements make it easier for devotees to undertake their spiritual journeys, ensuring their experience is both fulfilling and comfortable,” he concluded.
The Mata Kheerbhawani temple’s record-breaking year stands as a testament to the power of faith and community spirit. The unwavering dedication of locals, the contributions of the Muslim community, and the implementation of eco-friendly measures collectively showcase a harmonious and sustainable approach to spiritual tourism. As the temple continues to welcome pilgrims from across the country, it not only strengthens religious ties but also serves as a beacon of unity, prosperity, and environmental consciousness.