Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Mar 24: Deputy commissioner of the district G Jagadeesha, has enforced provisions of section 144 (3) of Criminal Procedure Code all over the district as a precautionary measure against spread of coronavirus infection.

Suggi Mari Puja, well-known traditional annual event, were planned to be held at the three shrines dedicated to Goddess Mari, namely Hale Marigudi, Hosa Marigudi and Moorane Marigudi at Kaup, on March 24 and 25. Normally, lacs of devotees not only from surrounding villages but also from other districts and states, congregate here for this event. The devotees also follow th e tradition of sacrificing animals like chicken, sheep, and goats to appease the goddess.

Because of the challenge posed by the deadly coronavirus, the Maripuja festival has been banned as a precautionary measure. The priests, staff and managing committees of the shrines have been advised to observe the formalities in a simple way without the involvement of the general public.

Offering of sacrifices on Suggi Maripuja festival, meeting of religious vows, and sale of chicken, sheep, goats and other animals has been barred. During the two days of the festival, all meat shops, chicken stalls, poultry farms etc within the municipal limits of Kaup have been ordered to remain closed. Vehicles carrying these animals have been barred from entering Kaup municipal limits through an order issued by the deputy commissioner.

Managing committees of these shrines will take a decision about Suggi Maripuja in the coming days. A release from Kaup tahsildar has requested people to cooperate.

At the same time, Bhrahmakalashotsava of Kannarpadi Jaya Durgaparameshwari temple and other religious programmes planned from March 26 to April 8 have been postponed. New date would be announced in due course, the temple committee said in a release. Likewise, Brahmakalashotsava of Goddes Mahishamardini temple at Neelavara, which was scheduled to be held from March 25 to April 2 and cultural programmes have also been postponed, said N Raghuram Madhyastha of the temple managing committee.