Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi

Udupi, Feb 17: A special train from Udupi to Prayagraj for pilgrims of Maha Kumbh Mela was flagged off today at Indrali Railway Station. The event was graced by Pejawar Math’s Sri Sri Vishwaprasanna Tirtha Swamiji, who blessed the devotees and signaled the train’s departure by waving a green flag and a saffron banner.

Udupi-Chikkamagaluru MP Kota Srinivas Poojary, accompanied by five MLAs from the district, extended best wishes to the pilgrims. MP Kota Poojary congratulated the first-time travelers and emphasised the importance of booking tickets in advance. He also expressed his gratitude to the central government and supporting departments for facilitating the special train service.

Many devotees, who had booked their tickets in advance, gathered at the station chanting slogans such as “Jai Shri Ram,” “Jai Jai Shri Ram,” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” as the train departed. Among them was folk singer Kalavathi Dayananda, who shared her joy, saying, “We’ve been planning this journey for over a month. Our family of 15 is traveling together, and we are grateful to have secured tickets for this spiritual experience.” She also thanked the authorities for arranging the special train service.

The flagging-off event was attended by several dignitaries, including Kapu MLA Gurme Suresh Shetty, Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna, Kundapura MLA Kiran Kumar Kodgi, Byndoor MLA Gururaj Gantihole, and BJP district leaders such as Srish Nayak, Jitendra Shetty, Prithviraj Shetty, Veena Shetty, and Geetanjali Suvarna.

Officials from the railway department were also present at the event.