JAMMU: More than 9,000 pilgrims, mostly Kashmiri Pandits, departed from Jammu for the famed Kheer Bhawani temple in Kashmir on Saturday.
With pilgrim participation significantly higher this year, officials anticipate a substantial turnout at the Kheer Bhawani Mela, one of the most important religious events for the Kashmiri Pandit community.
The pilgrims left for the valley in 200 J&K Road Transport Corporation buses, amid elaborate security arrangements, the officials said.