Rons Bantwal

Udupi, Feb 4: The 19th annual “Pratishta Vardhantyotsava” of Sri Durgaparameshwari Sannidhana (Regd.), Ulloor Kshetra, situated at Kemundel, Nandikuru in Udupi taluk, was celebrated with traditional splendour and deep religious fervour on Sunday, February 1.

The sacred observances commenced with “Punyaha Vachana”, led by priest Dinesh Shanthi, followed by the performance of the auspicious “Chandika Yaga”. In the evening, the temple premises resonated with devotion during the “Ranga Pooja” of Sri Durga. Bhajana services were rendered by Panduranga Bhajana Mandali, Kemundelu; Sri Narayana Guru Bhajana Mandali, Mudrangadi; and Sri Vara Siddhivinayaka Bhajana Mandali, Palimaru, adding spiritual vibrancy to the celebrations.

As part of the annual tradition, a formal programme was held during which student adoption initiatives, contributions to the donation fund, and distribution of educational scholarships were carried out, reaffirming the Kshetra’s commitment to social and educational welfare.

The dignitaries present included Suryakanth J Suvarna, chairman of Bharat Co-operative Bank (Mumbai) Limited; Santosh Shetty, Ermala Barpani; Veena, Mumbai; Dr Hemalatha, Mumbai; Usha Dayanand, vice-president of Elloor Grama Panchayat; Sudhakar Poojary of Mukambika Mandir, Asalpha; Suhas Shetty, Barpani; Bhoja Amin, Mumbai; Jagannatha Shetty of Ulloor Bhandara Mane; Kshetra president Shekhar Shanthi; treasurer C S Jayaram Poojary; manager Ulloor Dhananjaya Shanthi; priest Shankar Shanthi; Nithin Amin; and Amit G Saliyan, among others.

The programme was compered by Harish Kotiyan, lecturer and joint secretary.

A major highlight of the Vardhantyotsava was the visually striking rangoli of “Ashtabhuja Dharini Durga”, artistically created by Rajesh Shanthi at the Sri Durgaparameshwari Sannidhana, which drew admiration from devotees and visitors alike.