Mangalore, September 20: In what could be termed as a new initiative in Hinduism, former Union Minister and the patron of Shri Gokarnatheshwara Temple, Kudroli, has not only welcomed widows for impending Mangalore Dasara celebrations, but also proposed a special gift for them.
Mr Poojary told media persons here on Tuesday that the management committee of the Temple would distribute special gifts to 1500 widows as part of the Mangalore Dasara celebrations this year.
“Each widow will receive a saree worth Rs 300, a small-kumkum box, bangles, and jasmine flower - materials normally not part of her repertoire as per ancient religious traditions,” he said.
Stating that he is moved by the plight of the widows, who are treated in an inhuman way in the Hindu society, Mr Poojary said he took this initiative to change the mind-set of the people.
“This Poojary wants to show that being a widow is not a curse in society for woman” the Congress leader said in a reformer's tone. “We should respect all women, including widows”, he added.
“Unfortunately, widows have been boycotted from all religious rituals in our society. But, we have decided to bring a change. The Gokarnatheshwara Temple is now inviting the widows to participate in the Chandika Homa, in order to convey the message that widows are not responsible for their husbands' death and that they deserve to live a life of dignity”, he said.
Calling upon the men to come forward give a new life to the widows by marrying them, he said the Temple management would bear all the expenses.
Mr Poojary also appreciated a suggestion by a journalist to have a widow to inaugurate Mangalore Dasara, and said this could be considered for next year.
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