Daijiworld Media Network - Shivamogga (SP)

Shivamogga, May 5: Rumours which claimed that goats had been sacrificed during the 'Somayaaga (a kind of fire sacrifice)' conducted at Mattur for seeking boon of general welfare of the people in general from the divine, gave rise to debates and discussions in the district. There have also been claims that the Brahhmins who took part in the sacrifice ate goat meat after offering it to the gods besides consuming 'Somarasa', which is generally believed to be an intoxicating drink.

After some media reports claimed that goats had been sacrificed at the Somayaaga performed at Mattur near here from April 22 to 27, there has been a heated debate between the factions that are for and against these rituals.

Convener of the sacrifice, Dr Sanatkumar, has dismissed the allegations of sacrificing of goats at the Yaaga. "Goat and cows had been tethered near the sacrificial fire and puja was offered to these animals. That was only symbolic, and no animals were sacrificed," he said, expressing suspicion that those who oppose Brahmanism and sacrifices (oblations) are engaging in misinformation campaign.

He termed the above rumours as having been marred by total lack of knowledge and pinnacle of hatred towards Brahmanism. He agreed that a vine with the name, 'Somalatha' had been obtained from the foot of the Himalayas at considerable cost and a concoction made of it was consumed as it is believed that this vine has medicinal qualities. He rubbished efforts being made by some quarters to project this as consumption of intoxicating substances.

"This was a programme organized by my family. Hence, only close ones had been invited. Hundreds of people were present during the procedures. This programme was meant for the well-being of the universe, and not for any individual gain. Personally I do not stand to gain anything, nor do I aim at garnering any political mileage," he clarified.

When the media approached Sri Vishveshateertha Swamiji of Pejawar Math he said that he has always been against sacrificing of animals for the rituals, and that he had advised some people who took part in the said Yaaga to ensure that no animal sacrifice is involved. Stating that during the times of Mahabharata too animal sacrifices were opposed, he noted that the word, 'Aja' means both goat and pulses, and some people misinterpret it.