ANANTNAG, AUGUST 28: On the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan (Shravan Purnima), Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag, Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, Friday visited the ancient Prachin Shiv Temple at Thajiwara, Bijbehara, joining a large congregation of devotees during the celebrations.
The DC, as per an official statement, was accompanied by Assistant Commissioner Revenue (ACR), Tariq Ahmad Malik, Tehsildar and SDPO, Bijbehara, officers from line departments, and representatives of the temple management.
A large number of devotees visited the revered temple with enthusiasm and traditional fervor to pay their obeisance, offer prayers, and perform sacred rituals including tying of Rakhis, marking the culmination of the month of Shravan.
During the visit, the DC participated in the ceremonial observances alongside the devotees and expressed hope that the festival would bring prosperity, harmony, and happiness to people’s lives. He observed that traditional festivals like Raksha Bandhan present an ideal opportunity to strengthen bonds of love among siblings as well as between different communities. As a gesture of mutual love and respect, women present at the venue tied Rakhis to the Deputy Commissioner and other officers.
Interacting with the gathering, the DC extended his warm greetings, stating that the historic temple has long stood as a symbol of brotherhood that defines the region’s rich heritage. He appreciated the enduring spirit of unity among the people and urged everyone to continue preserving the area’s cultural and religious traditions.
On the occasion, the DC reviewed the overall arrangements and directed the concerned departments to ensure all basic facilities including uninterrupted power and water supply, sanitation, traffic management, and medical care remain available to the devotees. He instructed officials to keep all services fully operational throughout the festivities so that the celebrations proceed smoothly and hassle-free.
Reiterating the district administration’s commitment to the seamless conduct of such vibrant events, Dr. Bilal directed all departments to maintain close coordination with temple representatives, address emerging issues promptly, and extend full support to the devotees. Furthermore, he directed officials from the executing agency to expedite ongoing repair and renovation works at the temple.
The devotees and other participants expressed their gratitude to the district administration for its proactive support and the elaborate arrangements provided during the festival.
