Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, Dec 26: Former union minister, Janardhana Poojary, who was known for electrifying movements even during his advanced age and who performed 'Urulu Seve' regularly and actively around the sanctum sanctorum of Kudroli temple without fail during the annual festival of the temple, looks very weak now. Poojary, who had surprised many in the past by touring 24 places in Dakshina Kannada district on a single day, was seen shedding tears as he walked inside Kudroli temple complex.

Poojary had come to Kudroli to inaugurate 'Hasiru Horekanike' dispatched on behalf of Kudroli Lord Gokarnanatheshwara temple to Brahmakalashotsava of Kankanady Sri Brahma Baidarkala Garodi on Monday evening. On his arrival, he directly went to his office in the first floor.

Although he came back five minutes later and slowly placed steps in the company of his well-wishers, it was apparent that he had difficulty to even move ahead. He stopped briefly at the main door of the temple, refused assistance from close people when they opted to help him. He prostrated before the Lord with difficulty, stood again, and wiped his tears with his kerchief. He then slowly walked towards the main gate of the temple and inaugurated the 'Horekanike' procession.

Poojary saw actor Rajashekhar Kotian who had recently plunged into politics, during the inauguration of Horekanike procession. He told Kotian that he had committed a mistake. "You have chosen to be in the company of people who insulted me. This act is impossible to be condoned. You can visit the temple after admitting your guilt and seeking apology from the Lord," he said in a voice choked with emotions. Kotian chose not to react, and offered his respects to Poojary.

Although he wanted to walk with the procession, at the advice of his close people, Poojary returned to the temple.