Daijiworld Media Network – Bahrain

Bahrain, Jun 12: The award-winning Kannada Sangha of Bahrain recently organised a grand ‘Pooja Mahotsav’ at the Kannada Bhavan auditorium in Manama. Over 800 devotees participated in the event with deep devotion, taking part in various pooja rituals and receiving divine blessings.

This event was the first programme held under the leadership of the newly formed executive committee led by Sri Ajith Banger. The pooja ceremonies were conducted in a traditional manner by Vedic scholar Vedamurthy Sri Krishna Adiga, a priest from the renowned Kadri Temple in India, who had specially travelled to the island for the occasion. He performed the Shri Satyanarayana Pooja and Shani Pooja with all associated rituals.

Throughout the pooja, a bhajan session was conducted by a bhajana mandali, accompanied by melodious instrumental music, creating a devotional atmosphere that captivated the attendees. Flowers were specially brought from India to beautifully decorate the deity's altar, drawing admiration from the devotees.

President of the Kannada Sangha, Ajith Banger, along with other office bearers and invited dignitaries, offered prayers on behalf of all and commenced the rituals with the Sankalpa. The programme included Ganapati Pooja, Kalasha Pooja, Navagraha Pooja, Satyanarayana Vratha Kalpokti Pooja, bhajans and kirtans, the narration of the Satyanarayana story, Shani Pooja, and concluded with the Maha Mangalaarathi.

Speaking on the occasion, president Banger said, “This Pooja Mahotsav is not just a sacred event but also a medium to unite all of us.” He thanked everyone for their support and emphasised the importance of collective cooperation in taking the organisation forward.

Vedamurthy Krishna Adiga was felicitated with a shawl and a memento in recognition of his service. In a gesture of interfaith harmony, Christian priest Reverend Sudheer Robinson and Muslim cleric Abdul Majeed Juhri graced the occasion, addressed the gathering, and extended their best wishes to the new executive team. Both were also honoured with shawls and mementos.

Jayashankar V sponsored the Annadana (community meal). The Pooja Mahotsav saw the participation of presidents, office bearers, and members of all communities and organisations on the island.

Following the Maha Mangalaarathi, the devotees received teertha and prasada, followed by a traditional plantain leaf meal consisting of a variety of delicious dishes.

Kannada Sangha’s general secretary, Ram Prasad Ammenadka, welcomed the devotees, compered the programme, and expressed gratitude to all volunteers, service providers, and sponsors who contributed to the success of the event.