Pics: Spoorthi Ullal

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, Feb 20: The 200th annual car festival of Lord Venkataramana temple at Car Street here was celebrated in a grand manner on Friday February 19 with the coming together of thousands of devotees.

Not only were the surroundings of the temple, but even the streets and localities nearby jam-packed with enthusiastic devotees. The 'Dodda Rathotsava (big chariot)' was held on Friday. Spiritual head of Kashi Math Saunsthan, Sri Samyaminda Theertha Swamiji's presence at the religious festivities added to the enthusiastic fervour of the crowd which swarmed the city from different places.

After the morning prayers to the presiding deity of the temple, the Lord's idol was given Panchamritabhisheka, Pulakabhisheka, Kanakabhisheka, Gangabhisheka, Poorvaka Mahabhisheka and Shatakalashabhisheka. In the afternoon, the Lord's idol arrived at the venue where the sacrificial fire was lit. In the evening, the fire sacrifice concluded with the Poornahuthi and Arathi.

The idols of Lord Veera Venkatesha and Srinivasa were brought to the Brahmaratha in the golden palanquin that was tastefully decorated with flowers. As per customs, the idols were taken round the chariot followed by the gran 'Bhujaseva' kin which the palanquin is raised to the maximum level with hands in a rhythmic manner.

Accompanied by musical instruments, hails from the devotees and devotional songs rendered by the people, Brahmarathosava was held. Lord Veera Venkatesha, whose idol was installed in the chariot, was offered Mangalarathi and prayers for the well-being of the people were offered.

People congregated in the city from the country and abroad to witness the car festival and bathe in the grace of the Lord. At night, the people were served with a sumptuous meal in the form of Prasadam of the Lord.