Pampore, September 19: The 705th birth anniversary of revered Kashmiri saint Mata Lalleshwari, popularly known as Lal Ded, was observed at Sedeshwar Mahadev Mandir in Pampore on Saturday, with around 350 devotees from different parts of Kashmir participating in the religious programme.
Members of the local Muslim community also joined the celebrations and assisted with arrangements, highlighting the participation of people from different communities in the annual observance.
The celebrations were held at the historic site in Pampore, which is associated with Mata Lalleshwari’s spiritual journey according to local tradition. Lalleshwari is regarded as one of Kashmir’s prominent Shaivite mystics.
The seven-day religious programme included Puja and Archana and concluded with a Maha Yagya and Hawan. The Hawan, which began on Friday, concluded with Purna Ahuti on Saturday, followed by prayers and distribution of Prasad.
A Pran Pratishtha and Shiv Sthapana ceremony was also held as part of the programme.
According to the tradition associated with the site, Lalleshwari undertook years of spiritual practice and received guidance from her guru, Shri Srikanth Sedmol.
The event was organised by social activist Ravi Ji Bhat and local Karsevak Daya Krishan Bhat, who are followers of Sedeshwar Mahadev and Mata Lalleshwari.
Speaking to Kashmir Convener, Ravi Ji Bhat highlighted the significance of Lalleshwari’s Vakhs and the religious heritage associated with Pampore. He called for the preservation and development of the Lalleshwari Tapobhumi and sought improved facilities for pilgrims, including a Yatri Niwas and restoration of the traditional Lalleshwari Yatra track.
The programme also featured a discourse by Colonel T. Sreenivasulu, described as a spiritual teacher and follower of Lalleshwari. He is the author of Parashakthi: My Experiences During the Awakening of Kundalini Energy, a work dealing with Lalleshwari and Kundalini spirituality.
Daya Krishan Bhat expressed gratitude to devotees, local residents and the administration for their cooperation in organising the seven-day programme.
Sunil Pandit, speaking to Kashmir Convener, said the celebrations were held at the site associated with Lalleshwari’s spiritual journey and that devotees from different parts of the Valley participated.
He also acknowledged the participation of members of the Muslim community in the programme and their support for the arrangements.
The organisers expressed hope that the annual observance would contribute to the preservation of the site and the cultural and spiritual traditions associated with Mata Lalleshwari.
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