Zeesta Mata Temple: A Living Testament to Kashmiri Pandit Heritage

Zeesta Mata, a revered deity among the Kashmiri Pandits, holds a special place in the hearts of devotees who have cherished her blessings for generations.

- ■BAIRAJ CHAWALGAMI

Nestled in the peaceful surroundings of Srinagar, the temple of Goddess Zeesta is not merely a physical structure but a spiritual beacon that symbolizes faith, resilience, and the enduring cultural heritage of Kashmiri Hindus. The name "Zeesta" evokes deep reverence, and her temple stands as a solemn reminder of a once-vibrant community rooted in the traditions and spiritual practices of the Kashmir Valley. The history of Zeesta Mata is shrouded in sacred lore and the oral traditions passed down through generations. Though not as widely documented in mainstream texts, the goddess Zeesta is believed to be a form of Shakti, the divine feminine power that embodies creation, preservation, and destruction in Hindu cosmology. In Kashmir, which has long been a crucible of Shaivism and Shaktism, such manifestations of the divine mother were deeply woven into the spiritual fabric of daily life. The temple dedicated to Zeesta Mata reflects this connection and serves as a cultural and religious nucleus for the community.