Baba Pehar Devta, also known as Pehad Devta or Bhed/Bhaid Devta, is one of the most respected deities in the Manwal area of Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir. The Devta holds a special place in the hearts of the local people.
The Manwal region lies between the Udhampur and Jammu districts, acting as a cultural and geographical bridge. While parts of Manwal fall under Udhampur district, areas like Kathar are part of Jammu district, adding to the region’s rich historical and cultural diversity.
According to local beliefs, Baba Pehar Devta is believed to be the son of Vasuki Nag, the king of snakes. He was entrusted with the care of Jammu by Vasuki Nag and blessed by Bawe Wali Mata and Kaliveer. Baba Pehar Devta is also credited with bringing the sacred Tawi River to Jammu from the Kali Kundi glacier in Bhaderwah.
This act of bringing the river to Jammu has made Baba Pehar Devta a key figure in the spiritual life of the region. His importance goes beyond mythology, as many Rajput clans in Jammu, who ruled small areas, consider Baba Pehar Devta their Kuldevta, along with Kaliveer.
Near Baba Pehar Devta’s shrine, a sacred spot in the Tawi River is home to special fish that are revered by devotees. Locals offer flour (atta) to these fish, believing that when the fish eat the flour, it is a divine sign of Baba Pehar Devta’s blessing, a moment of ‘Darshan’ from the deity himself.
The priest at the shrine mentions that there are many other temples dedicated to Baba Pehar Devta in the Jammu and Udhampur districts. Despite the presence of many gods in the region, Baba Pehar Devta stands out for his quick responses to the prayers of his followers. His ability to bless his devotees instantly makes him a central spiritual figure in the area.
