Mangalore, October 6: Thousands of devotees, enthusiasts and tourists from across the state and country on Thursday evening took part in the popular Mangalore Dasara procession, which passed through the colourfully decorated seven-km route, along with folk troupes, and tiger-dance, marking the finale to the 10-day Dasara festival.
Resting on magnificent chariots the idols of Sharada, Navadurga and Ganesha brought festive spirit and spiritual feelings in the minds of devotees who thronged to have a glimpse of deities.
The colourful 'Shobha Yathra' started from Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatha Temple after poojas and other religious rituals at around 4.30 pm.
The idol of Ganesha was in the forefront of the procession which was followed by Adishakti, Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kooshmandini, Skandamata, Katyayini, Mahakali, Mahagowri, Siddidatri and Sharada.
Chende, dollu kunitha, veeragase kunitha, musical band and tableaux, which give description of Hindu religious heritage, preceded the idol procession. Meanwhile, all major roads in the city were decorated to welcome the procession. As the procession passed through the illuminated streets, devotees offered poojas, flowers and fruits to deities.
Later, Balipooje and Mantapabali rituals will be organised in the temple. The festival will be concluded at the Kudroli temple with the immersion of Sri Sharada Mata idol after 'Mantapa Pooja.'
Police faced hardship in diverting the traffic to other roads as there was a huge rush of people on the roads through which the procession passed.
People had gala time at their favourite “charmuri” stalls as children and women busied themselves in front of the shops selling fancy goods, footwear, toys and bangles. People were seen exchanging notes on the festivities.
Troupes of “tiger boys” exhibited their “tiger dance” in front of shops and houses, seeking donations from their owners. Some shops had displayed “no donation” boards.
At Mangaladevi Temple
Dasara festival was celebrated with great pomp and gaiety at Mangaladevi temple too. On 'Vijaydashami,' which is the last day of Dasara, idol of Mangaladevi was taken out for 'bali puje,' mounted on the head of the priest. The idol was placed inside the decked chariot and was taken for rounds around the temple.
In Kollur
As part of Navarathri, Chandikayaga and rathotsava were held at Kollur Sri Mookambika temple. Thousands of devotees took part in the rathotsava.
The major highlight of Vijaya Dashami was the ritual of 'Vidyaramba', a ritual which marks the beginning of the education of the children. Nearly 3,500 children mostly from Kerala, and also from Karnataka and other places participated in the Vidyarambha.
Comments
Add new comment