Pics: Brijesh Garodi
Daijiworld Media Network—Mangalore (BG)

Mangalore, Jun 23: The members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal held a condolence meet for the departed souls of Kedarnath pilgrims fell victim to floods in Uttarakhand, on Saturday June 22 at Pandeshwar Mahalingeshwar Temple.

The programme began with the recitation of ‘Omkar Manthra’ and ‘Sri Ram Chalisa’.

Speaking on the occasion, Krishnamurthy, divisional secretary, said that it was very sad to hear of this incident as thousands of pilgrims are feared dead. “Many organizations including the VHP have been striving hard day and night for the rehabilitation of the pilgrims and to ensure their safety. The central government needs to take prominent steps for the protection of the pilgrims in the coming days and ensure that the temple and the city will be built back stronger in the next couple of years,” he added.
“Like different associations, VHP has also come up with the Hindu helpline number 02066803333. People who are willing to contribute their share towards rehabilitation can also do it through the VHP relief fund,” said Krishnamurthy.

Dr P Ananthkrishna Bhat also spoke on the occasion and rendered his condolences. A silent tribute was paid to the departed souls.

Leaders Sridhar Bhat, Manohar Thulajaram, Sharan Pumpwell, Shivanand Mendon, Jagadish Shenava, Dinesh Pai, Pradeep Pumpwell, and Punith Pumpwell were also present.