Mangalore: Janardhan Poojary Sets Example, Honours Widow from Backward Class

Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore

Mangalore, Jan 1: In continuation of his mission to bring about reformation in society with regard to widows and backward classes, former union minister Janardhan Poojary, who is also the managing trustee of Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatheshwara Temple, on Tuesday January 1 honoured a widow from the backward class at the Temple premises.

76-year-old widow Anasuya Kumari, a teacher who has rendered 40 years of service, was honoured by Poojary with a sari and a garland.

Addressing the gathering, Poojary referred to the brutal gang-rape and subsequent death of a girl in Delhi and stressed on the importance of giving respect to women. He also said that a puja was offered in the Temple for the Delhi gang-rape victim and for Beltangady's Sowjanya who met a similar fate in October 2012.

He also spoke on the need to uplift widows and give them equal status in society. "There is a need to get rid of the system of treating widows as lesser people. They too have the right to live their life as they desire," he said.

Poojary, who washed Anasuya's feet as a mark of respect before honouring her, said that Anasuya being a teacher is a noble person, and that in Indian society, a teacher is equal to god. "By honouring Anasuya, the Temple has set an example of unity and equality, defeating discrimination against people from backward communities," he added.

Poojary also offered Chandika homa before felicitating Anusaya. The silver chariot was pulled by the devotees, and Urulu Seve was performed. Poojary also distributed rice to women on the occasion.

Prior to the felicitation, Anasuya was taken in a grand procession. She also participated in the Temple rituals.

Mayor Gulzar Banu and others were present.