Daiiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, Sep 21: The managing committee of Lord Gokarnanatha temple here has decided to make some important changes in the famous 'Mangaluru Dasara' procession. President of the committee H S Sairam, said that the idols depicting different forms of Goddess Durga will lead the procession instead of trailing the tableaux as in the past.

Speaking after presiding over the preliminary meeting relating to Dasara festival held at the temple premises on Friday September 20, Sairam stated that this change has been made as per the request of the devotees. "Green umbrella team of the temple, and folk art teams will be in front, and they will be followed by the idols of Narayanaguru, Ganapati, nine forms of Durga and then Goddess Sharada. People in different costumes, trucks depicting schemes from mythology, and other tableaux will be at the end of the procession, he said, and asked everyone to cooperate with the temple for the success of Dasara.

Mangaluru Dasara (file photo)

He explained that change this time has been made for the convenience of lacs of tourists who come from various parts of the state to witness the procession. "They have to wait for hours together to have a glimpse of the grand idols as there has been an increase of the number of tableaux over the last some years. Many say they had to return disappointed, after waiting for hours to look at the idols of the goddess and pay their respects. Many letters have been received in this connection by the temple," he explained.

He also said that gold painting work is in progress in the temple, and the period of the procession would be cut short by four hours this time. Security and safety will be given prominence, he added.

Member of temple development committee Harikrishna Bantwal, expressed appreciation for the people who have welcomed the decisions taken for the convenience of devotees.

Temple development committee vice president Urmila Ramesh, secretary of managing committee Madhava Suvarna, members Ravishankar Mijar, development committee member Devendra Poojary and others were present.