Daijiworld Media Network - Beltangady (EP)

Beltangady, Nov 25: Dharmasthala Shree Manjunatha Swamy Temple as part of Lakshadeepotsava celebrations held a padayatra on the theme 'March towards God' from Ujire to Dharmasthala on Thursday, November 24.

Ujire Janardhan temple managing trustee Vijay Raghava Padvetnaya set forth this year's procession in motion. More than ten thousand devotees participated in the procession.

The procession created an atmosphere of devotion along the route. Teaching and non-teaching staff of SDM Educational Institutions participated in it.

While devotees proceeded chanting bhajans, soft drinks were served on the roadsides. The procession started with an image of lord Manjunatha Swamy up front. Devotees in Yakshagana and other costumes attracted attention. Yashoda, member of SKDRDP said that she has been participating in the procession for the last two years and that she enjoys it.

During the programme, Dharmasthala Dharmadhikari Dr Veerendra Heggade in his address stressed on the need to give importance to Kannada in one's day-to-day affairs and thereby pave the way for the development of local language.

He further stressed on the need to face social challenges while protecting the beauty of Kannada. He advised on how, as a sincere citizen, one can support the changes that have taken place in the country.

"Most of the people say 'thanks' in English while expressing gratitude. We also say 'happy birthday' on birthdays. It is necessary to express our feelings in our own language. It will help in protecting our mother tongue," he opined.

"This procession helps us maintain health while being a symbol of spirituality. It strengthens the mind and the body. People with corrupt mind are useless. Places such as temples purify minds. Dharmasthala Manjunatha Swamy temple has always been engaged in such work," he said.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched a cleaning drive in India. Citizens should support his endeavour that has been started with a unique plan of cleanliness. He has brought about demonetisation to put an end to black money. Those who look for change in society should support the bold step of our Prime minister," he said.

Dakshina Kannada district panchayat president Meenakshi Shantigodu, Dr B Yashovarma, Dr Mohan Narayana were present on the occasion. Beltangady advocate B K Dhananjay Rao welcomed. Kishore Kumar proposed the vote of thanks. Srinivas Rao compered the programme.