SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has extended warm greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the sacred occasion of Mela Kheer Bhawani.

In his message, the Chief Minister said that the festival is a symbol of communal harmony and brotherhood, reflecting the rich pluralistic ethos that has defined Jammu and Kashmir for centuries.

Omar Abdullah emphasized that such festivals reinforce the spirit of unity and the cultural heritage that binds the people of Jammu and Kashmir together.

The Chief Minister prayed for peace, harmony, progress and prosperity in the state and urged all sections of society to strengthen the age-old bonds of togetherness and mutual respect.

Highlighting the significance of the occasion, Omar Abdullah noted that Mela Kheer Bhawani has always stood as an epitome of inter-community harmony.

He expressed hope that with the return of peace, Kashmiri Pandits would come back to their homeland with honour and dignity, reclaiming their rightful place in the Valley's social and cultural fabric.