Jyestha Ashtami

Jyestha Ashtami

May-June; eighth day of waxing half of Hindu month of JyesthaThis Hindu festival is celebrated at the shrine of Khir Bhawani in Tullamula, Jammu and Kashmir, in honor of their patron goddess, called Ragnya Devi. Pilgrims come from all over to assemble at the shrine, offer prayers and worship at the foot of the goddess, and sing hymns and songs in her praise. Khir (rice boiled in milk) is prepared on this day as a food offering. The marble shrine, located about 25 kilometers from Srinagar, India, overlooks a pool formed by spring waters known for their changing colors. Hundreds of Kashmiri Hindus visit the shrine daily.
CONTACTS:
Jammu and Kashmir Government
Directorate of Information
Opposite Pratap Pk.
Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir 190 001 India
91-194-2452294; fax: 91-194-2452227
www.jammukashmir.nic.in
SOURCES:
RelHolCal-2004, p. 169