Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Apr 1: Maha Pratishta and Brahma Kalashotsava of Sri Mukhyaprana and Nagadeva of the historic Indrani Sri Panchadurga Parameshwari Temple, nestled amidst scenic natural surroundings, to be held from April 3 to 7, with religious, cultural, and spiritual programmes.

Jayakar Shetty Indrali, president Brahmakalashotava Committee, addressing the media during the press conference held on April 1 at temple premises, said, “In 2024, recognizing the dilapidated condition of the shrine, a decision was taken to renovate it. Following Ashtamangala Prashna and prescribed rituals, the temple has now been rebuilt in stone, preserving the natural beauty of the surroundings. The renovation, including the shrine and surrounding structures, has been undertaken at an estimated cost of Rs 3 crore.”

A series of religious rituals will be conducted over five days. On April 3, Vastu Puja, Vastu Bali, and Bimbadhivasa will begin at 6 pm. On April 4, the Maha Pratishta of Sri Mukhyaprana with Ashtabandha will commence at 6:48 am, followed by Mahapooja and Annasantarpane. On April 5, Brahmakumbhabhisheka, Mahapooja, Pallapooja, and Annasantarpane will be held, with Maharanga Puja scheduled at 7 pm. On April 6, Vastu rituals, Raksha Homa, and Bimbadhivasa will take place at Nagagudi from 6 pm. The event will conclude on April 7 with the re-consecration of Nagadeva, along with Ashlesha Bali, Mahapooja, Vatu Aradhane, Annasantarpane, and distribution of prasada.

Several prominent religious leaders are expected to grace the occasion, including the seers of Udupi’s Ashta Mathas, Subramanya Math pontiff Sri Vidyaprasanna Theertha Swamiji, and Dharmasthala Dharmadhikari Dr D Veerendra Heggade.

A range of cultural programmes has been scheduled as part of the festivities. On April 4, Kalamayam, Udupi will present folk and classical performances. On April 5, a Yakshagana performance will be staged by the Jnanashakti Subrahmanya Swami troupe from Pavanje. On April 6, Guruvasanthi Cultural Forum, Manipal will present the mythological drama “Bikrama Bajrangi.” The cultural lineup will conclude on April 7 with the Yakshagana “Veeramani Kalaga” by Yakshanidhi, Moodbidri.

Additionally, devotional programmes such as Bhajans, dance performances, music concerts, and Thalamaddale will be held throughout the five days.

A special Hanuman Chalisa Writing Yajna has also been initiated for the welfare of devotees. Participants are encouraged to write the Chalisa at home and offer it at the temple after the festival, believed to bring courage, strength, and prosperity.

Devotees in large numbers are invited to participate in the celebrations and seek the blessings of Sri Mukhyaprana Devaru, worshipped in the lap of pristine nature.

The press conference was attended by Bhoopathi Shetty Indrali, president, Temple Renovation Committee; B Kushal Shetty, president, Temple Management Committee; Ratnakar Shetty Budnaru, treasurer; Sadhu Shetty, vice president; Ravi Shettigar, Media and publicity coordinator; Seetharama Nayak, general secretary, Brahmakalashotsava Committee; Rakesh Rai, Umesh Poojary, and others.