The Uma Bhagwati temple in Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir, has been reopened for worshippers after being closed for over 30 years. This temple, surrounded by five springs in the Brariangan area, was officially reopened on July 14, 2024, by Nityanand Rai, the Union Minister of State for Home Affairs.
Uma Bhagwati Temple Reopens After Decades
Residents, including both Kashmiri Pandits and Muslims, attended the reopening ceremony and expressed happiness over the temple’s revival after nearly 34 years. At the event, the idol of Goddess Uma, brought from Rajasthan, was installed in the main shrine. The Union Minister highlighted the government’s dedication to the development of Jammu and Kashmir and stressed the significance of the region’s diverse culture in promoting peace and prosperity. The community’s unity and shared celebration at the reopening underscored the enduring spirit of harmony in the area.
Legend And History
The Uma Bhagwati temple has a rich history and is associated with the spiritual journey of Swami Shivananda, also known as Shree Shiv Ram Koul Jalali. Originally a revenue collector during the Afghan rule in Kashmir, Shree Jalali experienced a profound spiritual transformation upon reaching Brari Angan in 1772. He later became the founder Mahant of the Uma Bhagwati shrine.
In the early 19th century, various Mahants developed the temple complex, which included the construction of the Diwan Khana, a decorative building comprising the Mahants’ residence, kitchen, and dining hall. The complex also featured a two-story Dharmshalla, a Dhoni Sahib building, and a pond for pilgrims to take a holy bath.
Significance And Celebrations
The Uma Bhagwati temple is a popular religious destination where pilgrims seek the presiding deity’s blessings. The shrine commemorates two significant events annually: Uma Jayanti, celebrated on Chaitra Shukla Paksh Navmi, and Nirwan Diwas (Swami Shivananda Ji’s death anniversary) on Pusha Shukla Paksh Pratipada.
During these events, a Maha Yagya (Hawan) takes place, attracting thousands of worshippers who come to receive blessings from Mata and Guru Maharaj. The Mata Uma Bhagwati Asthapan Trust organizes these celebrations, working together with the local community and devotees who have settled in Jammu after being displaced. The gatherings foster a sense of unity and devotion among those participating, creating a strong spiritual atmosphere during this special time.
Destruction And Restoration
The temple complex experienced significant damage due to militancy after 1990. Fortunately, the local community came together to help, and through donations, they managed to put up a fence around the shrine. Renovation work took place between 2012 and 2014. Despite these positive efforts, a lot of maintenance is still needed. This includes rebuilding the Hawan Shalla, creating a stormwater drainage system, and adding tile flooring and pathways throughout the temple area to improve accessibility and appearance.
The reopening of the Uma Bhagwati temple in Anantnag is a big step in preserving the rich culture of Jammu and Kashmir. This temple has a long history filled with legends and celebrations that show the region’s mixed culture and the strong faith of its people. Restoring this old shrine proves the community’s strength and commitment to protecting their religious and cultural identity.
