The annual three-day Shiv Khori Mela began on Friday with great religious fervor at the revered Shiv Khori Shrine in the Reasi district.
The mela was formally inaugurated by Kuldeep Raj Dubey and Deputy Commissioner Reasi Nidhi Malik, along with officials from the district administration, representatives from the shrine board, and a large gathering of devotees.
During the event, the MLA emphasized the spiritual significance of Shiv Khori, stating that the mela not only strengthens religious faith but also promotes pilgrimage tourism and boosts local livelihoods in the region. He commended the coordinated efforts of the district administration, police, health, and other relevant departments for making comprehensive arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the event. He further stated that the Shiv Khori Shrine Board would soon explore measures to create more employment opportunities for locals, particularly by facilitating vending activities.
Thousands of devotees from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as from outside the Union Territory, are expected to pay their respects at the holy cave shrine during the three-day religious gathering. Authorities have made elaborate arrangements related to security, sanitation, drinking water, healthcare services, power supply, and traffic management to ensure a safe and comfortable pilgrimage experience.
The mela will conclude on February 16, with traditional wrestling competitions, religious rituals, prayers, and devotional activities.