Pics: Niranjan M N
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Sep 4: The temple town of Udupi has come alive in festive spirit as preparations for the grand Sri Krishna Janmashtami celebrations have reached their peak. The city is witnessing a vibrant atmosphere with colourful decorations, cultural programmes, competitions, 'Huli Vesha' troupes and tableaux ahead of the main celebrations.
The celebrations at the historic Sri Krishna Math will culminate with the traditional Arghya Pradhana in the early hours of Saturday, September 5.
The festive mood was evident across Udupi, with several children dressed as Lord Krishna adding charm to the celebrations. Various competitions and programmes for children were also organised at the Sri Krishna Math and other venues in the city.
The Sri Krishna Math has been beautifully adorned with intricate floral decorations, creating a divine ambience for the rituals and cultural events.
Paryaya Sri Shiroor Math seer Sri Sri Vedhavardhana Theertha Sripada will perform the Mahapuja at 12.15 am on Saturday. Following the Mahapuja, the seer will initiate the preparation of ladoos, which will be offered as naivedya during the night Mahapuja.
The celebrations will continue on Saturday with the grand Sri Krishna Leelotsava (Vitla Pindi), one of the most-awaited events of the festival. The entire city is expected to witness a surge of devotees as various 'Huli Vesha' troupes, tableaux and cultural performers converge in Udupi.
A large number of devotees have already arrived in the temple town to witness the Ashtami and Vittal Pindi celebrations. With the festival coinciding with the weekend, the number of visitors is expected to increase significantly.
As part of the Vittal Pindi celebrations, 'Annasantarpane' will begin at 10 am on Saturday for devotees. At 3 pm, a procession carrying the clay idol of Lord Krishna in a golden chariot will be held at Car Street (Rathabeedi).
During the traditional celebrations, the curd-filled pots placed on Gurjis will be broken by the cowherds. The Paryaya Sripada will distribute chakli and unde prasada among the devotees.
The clay idol of Lord Krishna will later be immersed in the Madhwa Sarovara, marking the conclusion of the traditional festivities. The celebrations will also feature performances by people in colourful costumes, including the popular tiger dance and wrestling displays.
Tight security arrangements
In view of the large gathering expected for the celebrations, security has been strengthened across Udupi city. Additional police personnel have been deployed to monitor the movement of devotees and ensure the smooth conduct of the festivities.
The security arrangements include one superintendent of police (SP), one additional SP, two DySPs, six PIs, 25 PSIs, 35 ASIs and 186 head constables, police constables and women police personnel, along with 50 home guards.
For additional security, the police department has deployed one KSRP platoon, nine DAR platoons, three fire and emergency response teams, two ambulances and three drone teams.
With thousands of devotees expected to throng the temple town, Udupi is all set to witness a grand celebration of Lord Krishna's birth and the colourful traditions associated with Sri Krishna Leelotsava.