Sri Puthige Paryaya 2024: Thousands witnessed spectacular procession and durbar ceremony

Team Udayavani, Jan 19, 2024, 9:29 AM IST

Udupi: Chaturtha Paryaya Mahotsava of Sri Sugunendra Theertha Sripada of Sri Puthige Matha unfolded in Udupi on January 17 and 18, captivating thousands with a grand procession and Durbar ceremony.

Union Minister of State for Agriculture, Shobha Karandlaje, highlighted the role of Mathas as a bridge between religious practices in South India, particularly Karnataka, and North India. She emphasized the historical and cultural connections, stating, “Mathas serve as a vital link, connecting the spiritual practices of the South with the North.”

Former Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa expressed gratitude for participating in the Paryaya after many years. He noted the auspicious alignment of Sripada’s Paryaya with the Sri Ram Mandir inauguration in Ayodhya.

MLA Yashpal Suvarna acknowledged the global significance of Paryaya, emphasizing Puthige Sripada’s efforts in spreading the teachings of Udupi Krishna worldwide.

Dignitaries present at the event included MLA Gururaj Gantihole, Legislative Council Member Manjunath Bhandari, and others from diverse fields. Prasadam from renowned temples across the country was offered to Sripada, symbolizing unity in religious diversity.

In a notable gesture, a three-year-old girl, Kokila Vemuri, who recites 700 verses of the Bhagavad Gita by heart, received blessings and a gold tulsi bead bracelet from Puthige Sripada.

Dr. Virendra Heggade, Dharmakhari of Sri Dharamsthala Kshetra, commended Puthige Swamiji’s efforts in promoting Indian culture globally. He urged foreigners to carry the message of Krishna from India, highlighting the challenges faced in building temples abroad.

Assembly Speaker UT Khader stressed the role of saints and religious leaders in promoting harmony in society. District In-charge Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar commended the richness of religious and cultural attire, emphasizing Puthige Sripada’s global outreach.

Foreign dignitaries, including Reverend Kosho Niwano, the  President-designate of Rissho Kosei-kai from Japan, expressed appreciation for Hindu religious practices and acknowledged Sripada’s role in establishing religious peace globally.

Luke Donnellan Former Minister for Victoria, Australia, partook in a unique ritual of pouring the holy water of Madhwa Sarovara on his head.

The Paryaya ceremony was a culturally rich spectacle, with diverse programs making the Puthige Sripada’s Chaturtha Paryaya Mahotsava a memorable event, showcasing India’s cultural heritage on a global stage.