Rons Bantwal
Mumbai, Apr 6: The ‘Divya Manavi’ appeal for the reconstruction of Tonse Garodi was released during a programme held at Billava Bhavan in Santacruz East on Sunday evening, organised by the Tonse Sri Brahmabaidarkala Pancha Dhoomavati Garodi Seva Trust, Mumbai.
Speaking after inaugurating the programme by lighting the lamp, Thonse Anand M Shetty, executive chairman of Organic Industries Private Limited, said that though many may not be fully aware of the history of Koti-Chennaya and the existence of Garodis, the tradition of worshipping Koti-Chennaya, who were born as humans and attained divinity, has been carried forward by ancestors.
He noted that such traditional centres have contributed to the overall well-being of villages. He added that when good people exist, villages prosper, and such prosperity ensures peace and development. Referring to Tonse, he said that worship of deities and serpent gods has been a natural tradition and that temples and Garodis are essential for a village’s growth. While he was unaware of the construction of new Garodis, he stated that the reconstruction of ancient Garodis is a practical necessity. He expressed that it was a matter of fortune to get an opportunity to serve through the Tonse Garodi and urged all to contribute.
The programme was held in connection with the complete reconstruction, foundation laying, and ‘Mushtikaanike’ of the Tonse Sri Brahmabaidarkala Pancha Dhoomavati Garodi located at Santhekatte, Udupi.
The event also featured a consultative meeting presided over by Nityananda D. Kotian, president of the Tonse Garodi Seva Trust. The ‘Divya Manavi’ was released by guests including Thonse Jayakrishna A Shetty, founder of Jayashreekrishna Parisara Premi Samiti; Harish G Amin, president of Billavar Association Mumbai; and Anand M Shetty.
Among the dignitaries present as honoured guests were Herga Babu Poojary, managing director of Budhagi Engineers and Contractors Private Limited; Dharmapal U Devadiga, president of Vishwa Devadiga Mahamandala; Chandrashekar R Belchad, administrative trustee of Sasihithlu Sri Bhagavathi Temple; Lakshana K Amin, owner of Golden Travels (Bengaluru); Sadananda N Acharya, finance director of Madison World; Prashanth C Poojary, managing director of Swark Videotech LLP; noted theatre artiste and social worker Lakshman Kanchan; and special invitees including Umesh Poojary Badanidiyur, vice-president of Tonse Garodi; former honorary secretary Shekhar Gujjarbetu; Jayanth A Avin (Garadi Mane); renovation committee secretary Nandakishore Kemmannu; and treasurer advocate Sandeep Shankar. They expressed hope that the reconstruction of the historically significant Garodi would be completed smoothly within the expected timeframe.
Speaking on the occasion, Jayakrishna Shetty said the foundation laying ceremony resembled a Brahmakalasha-like grandeur and expressed hope that the renovation project would exceed expectations. He highlighted that Tonse Garodi represents the roots of culture and belief, and noted that the existence of such centres is evolving with modern generations. He wished that the renovated Garodi would bring global recognition to Tonse.
Harish Amin said Tonse is a naturally beautiful village with noble-minded people and noted the long-standing association between Billavar Association Mumbai and Tonse Garodi. He added that devotees in Mumbai have also developed deep faith in the Garodi and assured continued support.
Babu Poojary said the Garodi is located in his ancestral village and emphasised that the people of Tulunadu revere deities with deep devotion. He said traditional Garodis reflect cultural heritage and called for collective support for the renovation.
Dharmapal Devadiga stated that Garodis are sacred centres of worship and that Koti-Chennaya are revered deities. He said that contributing to such a noble cause is a shared responsibility and a matter of fortune.
Chandrashekar Belchad said the people of Tonse are rich in both wealth and values and expressed hope that devotees would contribute generously for the development of the Garodi. He termed the reconstruction as a rare lifetime opportunity.
Lakshana Amin said Koti-Chennaya, revered as heroic figures, are respected across communities and hoped that the project would be realised with divine blessings.
Sadananda Acharya said the development of village Garodis leads to the progress of the region and noted that the simplicity of the people of Tonse ensures successful execution of such initiatives. He urged people to contribute a portion of their earnings to such noble causes.
Umesh Poojary said the unique worship culture of Tulunadu is globally recognised and that contributions from Mumbai devotees towards the development of Tonse Garodi are significant. He expressed hope for continued generosity and support.
In his presidential address, Nityananda D Kotian said traditional Garodis represent the roots of culture and belief, where deities are worshipped with devotion through rituals like Kola and Nema, transcending caste and religion while promoting harmony with nature. He urged all to participate in the sacred task of renovation.
Trust office-bearers including vice-presidents D B Avin and Vishwanath Thonse, honorary secretary Sanjeeva Poojary Thonse, treasurer Raviraj Kalyanpur, joint secretary Karunakara B Poojary, and joint treasurer Vijay Sanil were present on the dais. Office-bearers honoured guests with sandal paste and prasadam, while women members offered coconut, areca flowers, and appeal letters.
Executive committee members Ashok M Kotian, Roopkumar Kalyanpur, Suresh Anchan, Uday N Poojary, Vijay Palan, advisors V C Poojary and Soma Suvarna, and members of the women’s wing including Mrudula A Kotian were present.
The programme commenced with prayers offered at the statue of Brahmashri Narayana Guru installed at Guru Narayana Mandir in Billava Bhavan, followed by floral tributes to Koti-Chennaya. A documentary showcasing the service and objectives of the Garodi was screened at the beginning. Sulochana R Poojary, Bharati S Suvarna, and Kasturi R Kalyanpur rendered the invocation. Vishwanath Thonse delivered the welcome address, Jayanth A Avin presented the proposal, Shekhar Gujjarbetu introduced the guests and compered the programme, and Sanjeeva Poojary Thonse proposed the vote of thanks.