DODA, Aug 21: The annual traditional Trishool Bhaint Yatra and Mela at the historic Dhar Dedni Durga Mata Mandir, Kud, will be held on August 24 and 25, 2026, The main Mela 25 August with devotees from different parts of the Chenab Valley and neighbouring districts expected to participate in the religious and cultural celebrations. The traditional festival has been celebrated since 1982 in memory of the re-installation of the ancient idol of Mata Durga, which was recovered from Chenani in Udhampur district after reportedly being stolen from the temple by smugglers. Since then, the annual Trishool Bhaint Yatra and Mata Darbar have remained an important religious tradition for devotees.
Dedni village is located around 30 kilometres from Doda town. Every year, thousands of devotees from Doda, Ramban, Udhampur, Kishtwar, Jammu and adjoining areas visit the shrine to pay obeisance to Mata Durga and participate in the traditional Mela. The main Trishool Yatra from Khellani via Shree and Saras will start from Durga Mandir, Chinar Chowk, at around 8:30 AM on August 24, following Trishool Poojan. Trishool processions from Paryote, Hambal, Seen and other surrounding areas will also proceed towards the Mata Durga Mandir.
On August 24, priests will perform Havan at the temple in the morning, after which the Darbar of Mata Rani will be opened for devotees. Pilgrims will offer prayers, seek blessings and pay obeisance at the holy shrine. A special Mata Jagran will also be organised on the night of August 24. A large number of devotees and pilgrims are expected to participate in Mata bhajans and kirtans. Devotional singers will perform bhajans throughout the night in praise of Mata Rani, creating a spiritual atmosphere at the temple.
The main Mela will continue throughout August 25, when devotees will arrive in large numbers throughout the day for Darshan. The fair will also showcase local cultural traditions. A traditional local dance performance will be organised as part of the Mela. According to the local tradition, people participate in the dance as an expression of devotion and to honour the Devta tradition, making it an important part of the area’s cultural heritage.
The Mata Rani Mandir at Dedni is surrounded by dense forests and beautiful Deodar and Kail trees, adding to the natural beauty and spiritual atmosphere of the shrine. Devotees visiting the Mela can also enjoy the scenic surroundings with their families and friends. The temple management committee and administration make arrangements for pilgrims, including drinking water, blankets, lighting, medical assistance, security and other basic facilities. Various shops and stalls are also set up during the Mela, while arrangements for food and refreshments are made for devotees. Dedni Mata Langar Trust (Regd.) will also organise Langar Bhandara and sewa from August 23 to 25, providing food and other services to pilgrims and visitors throughout the festival.
The management committee has appealed to all devotees to maintain the sanctity of the religious occasion. Pilgrims have been advised not to consume alcohol or use intoxicating substances during the Yatra or at the shrine. Devotees have also been advised to carry umbrellas and warm clothes, as weather conditions in the area may change suddenly and rainfall is possible. The Trishool Bhaint Yatra and Mela at Dhar Dedni Durga Mata Mandir is not only a major religious gathering but also an important reflection of the faith, tradition and cultural heritage of the local community, bringing thousands of devotees together to seek the blessings of Mata Durga.