Sea of devotion at 'Maharathotsava' in Nanjangud

The temple town famously called the ‘Dakshina Kashi’ came alive with five chariots carrying the main deity Srikanteshwara, other deities such as goddess Parvathi, Lord Ganapathi, Subramanya and Chandikeshwara were pulled across the temple by devotees. These chariots also passed through the important streets of the town like Rashtrapathi Road, School Road, Market Street covering about a kilometre and half.

The newly weds also thronged in big numbers as the legend has it that taking part in the Pancharathotsava would bestow the couple with good luck and great life ahead. The devotees also threw Bananas and Javana (a small aromatic leafy plant), a traditional custom followed during the Panchamaharathotsava. Many devotees were also seen taking a holy dip at the Kabini and queue up for the darshan of the deity.

Thousands of devotees from across the region and from outside the state thronged the venue to witness the breathtaking sight of huge chariots moving around the temple with idols of the deities. Deputy Commissioner Harsh Gupta flagged off the rituals after the temple priests offered traditional pooja to the deities at about 6 am in the auspicious hour of Kumbha Lagna. Devotees pulled the main chariot which 95 ft in height and weighs about 50 tonne chanting and praising the lord.

The five chariots completed their procession in the town and reached the temple premises at about 7.25 am. The district administration had made elaborate security arrangements to ensure the peaceful conduct of the event. The fire and ambulances were stationed near the temple.

Talking to reporters, Deputy Commissioner Harsh Gupta said the administration had made all arrangements to ensure there were no untoward incidents during the day-long festival.

Deputy Chairman of the State Planning Commission Ramachandra Gowda, Assistant Commissioner Bharathi, Tahasildar Naveen Joseph and others were present on the occasion.