Mangalore, Jan 1: In a move to defy the traditional and caste based 'inequality', B Janardhana Poojary, Former Union Minister, performed 'Paada Pooje' of a widow from SC/ST community at the Kudroli Gokarnatheshwara Temple in Mangalore making a unique start to his New Year.
Mr. Poojary carried out her 'pooja' and then made the lady perform the 'Aarti' of the Temple deity. Apart from this, he also handed over sari, kumkum, turmeric and flowers, which are considered as auspicious symbols of marriage.
The 76-year-old lady hailing from Sooter Pete by name Anasuya Kumari from the SC/ST-Mundaala community, a retired teacher who had lost her husband four years ago, was chosen by Mr. Poojary for the 'Paada Pooje'. She was welcomed in traditional style at the Temple after which she participated in the 'Chandika Homa'. She was later taken near the sanctum sanctorum of the Temple where she performed 'Aarti' of the deity. Mr. Poojary performed her 'Paada Pooje' and offered 'Teertha'.
Expressing her feelings, Ms. Anasuya said that she is a firm believer of God. “Why I was chosen to be worshipped is something I am yet to comprehend but it was a unique experience”, she said.
The deity was seated on the silver chariot which was taken around the temple premises three times by married women. On the occasion, Mr. Poojary along with others performed 'Urule Seve' against the practice of 'Made Snana'.
Speaking to media persons later, Mr. Poojary said that the 'pooja' of Ms. Anasuya that was performed on the occasion is a symbol of respect not just for women but also the 'Guru' (teacher) as she is also a retired teacher.
“People across the country are enraged over the way women are being harassed and exploited. The society views widows as inferior and they are kept away from taking part in religious rituals. This is not right. The pooja held today was to bring home a point that even women should be given the respect that they deserve,” he said
Mr. Poojary also called for elimination of differences of caste, creed and religion. Speaking on 'Made Snana', and the proposed 'Yade Snana', he said that the latter involves rolling over the 'Naividya' of the deity which is an insulting act. 'Urulu Seve' stands for a cleaner environment and hence 'Urulu Seve' was performed today, he said.
In memory of the Delhi gang-rape victim who passed away recently, 5000 women were given with 5 kgs of rice each.
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