Udupi: Devotees queue up at Sri Krishna Math for 'Tapta Mudradharane'

Pics: Umesh Marpalli
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SM)

Udupi, Jul 19: Devotees gathered in huge numbers at Sri Krishna Math on Friday July 19 at 8 am for ‘Tapta Mudradharane’, a Madhwa traditional ceremony, on Prathama Ekadashi.

Sri Vishwavallabhatirtha Swamiji of Paryaya Sode Vadhiraja Math along with Sri Laxmivaratirtha Swamiji of Shiroor Math and Sri Vidhyasagartirtha Swamiji of Krishnapura Math administered the ‘Tapta Mudradharane’ to the devotees.

The process of Tapta Mudradharane involves heating the metal, which is in the form of 'Shankha’ and ‘Chakra' in Sudarshana Homa and marking the 'Mudra' on the body of the devotees. Five marks are made on men and two on women. As per tradition the Tapta Mudradharane is to be performed at least once a year.

'Shankha’ and ‘Chakra' is considered as Lord Vishnu’s weapon. The ritual is practiced in the rainy season.

It is believed that it has the power to prevent many diseases caused by germs, especially those prevalent during the rainy season. People participate in it irrespective of age. It strengthens the immune system by protecting one from diseases.