Media Release
Harihar, Aug 29: The Basilica of Our Lady of Health in Harihar has announced its annual feast celebrations in honour of Mother Mary, with this year’s theme titled 'Mother Mary – Our Mother of Hope'.
The festivities will begin on Saturday, August 30, with a flag hoisting ceremony at 5:30 pm, to be officiated by Dr Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar.
A novena will take place from August 30 through September 7, featuring daily evening services at 5:30 pm. Each day includes a procession, novena prayers, floral homage, and the Holy Eucharist. Large numbers of pilgrims from across Karnataka and neighbouring states are expected to attend these spiritual preparations.
On Sunday, September 7, at 5:30 pm, Dr Bernard Moras, Archbishop Emeritus and Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Mysore, will preside over a concelebrated solemn Mass. The event is considered a major spiritual highlight in the lead-up to the feast day.
The main feast day, Monday, September 8, will feature special holy Masses celebrated in Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam, Tamil, English, and Konkani, accommodating the linguistic diversity of the faithful.
A concelebrated solemn Mass in Kannada at 11 am will be led by Dr Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of the Diocese of Shimoga. Bishop Duming Dias will also celebrate Masses in English and Konkani, offering guidance and blessings to the pilgrims.
Healing adorations will be held on Sunday, September 7, at 8 pm, and again on Monday, September 8, at 2:30 pm, conducted by Fr Franklin D’Souza, Fr Pius D’Souza, and Fr Roman Pinto. These services are intended to provide moments of spiritual renewal and healing for all attendees.
A solemn procession in honour of Mother Mary will take place on September 8 at 5 pm, with thousands expected to walk in devotion, singing hymns and offering prayers. This vibrant and moving event is a central tradition of the annual feast.
Celebrations will conclude on Tuesday, September 9, with the blessing of pilgrims’ vehicles at 9 am, a much-loved ritual that symbolises protection and safe travel for the faithful.
Special arrangements have been made to ensure a smooth experience for pilgrims. Flowers, candles, and religious articles will be available for purchase at the church entrance. Priests will be present to hear confessions and offer blessings in various languages throughout the festivities. Devotees may also offer items such as gold, silver, and sarees near the presbytery as part of their spiritual offerings.
Fr George K A, rector of the Basilica, stated, “We are blessed to welcome pilgrims from all over the region to this sacred celebration. This year’s theme, ‘Mother Mary – Our Mother of Hope,’ is a message of comfort and strength for all during these uncertain times. We invite everyone to come and receive blessings through the intercession of Our Lady of Health.”
For further information, pilgrims may contact:
Fr George K A, Rector, Basilica of Our Lady of Health, Harihar, P.B. No. 19, Harihar – 577 601, Davanagere District, Karnataka.
Phone: +91 73492 46751
Email: olhharihar@gmail.com
Website: www.hariharshrine.org