Pics: Jeevan D'Costa

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (MS/JD)

Udupi, Aug 26: The city of Udupi is all set for the grand celebration of Sri Krishna Janmashtami on August 26 and 27, with a host of traditions, rituals, and various veshas (disguises).

The festival will be celebrated at Sri Krishna Math on August 26, followed by Sri Krishna Leelotsava (Vitlapindi) on August 27.

On August 26, there will be flower decorations, special poojas, and religious and cultural programmes throughout the day. On Monday morning, after the Mahapooja conducted by the Paryaya Puttige Math seer, Sree Sugunendratheertha Sripada set the muhurat for preparing the Unde.

The Swamiji and his disciples observe a Krishnashtami fast, abstaining from even water. In the evening, the Swamiji will perform the Archane and Pooja, and in the morning, Laddus will be offered to Lord Sri Krishna.

As always, arrangements have been made for devotees to have darshan of Lord Sri Krishna and to swing the cradle of the deity.

On the occasion of Janmashtami, a 'Muddukrishna' fancy dress competition was held at Rajangana, Geetha Mandira, and Puttige Math. Additionally, bhajans, dance performances, flute music by 108 artists, Yakshagana, and various cultural programmes were held on Monday morning. Sripada will deliver a religious message during the evening programme.

Various tiger dance troupes and other tableaus are making their way around the city, attracting and entertaining the public. Social worker Ravi Katapady has introduced the 'Avataar 3.0' edition of his tableau and has decided to donate the money raised to three children for their medical treatment. Many other groups are also raising funds through tableaus for various charitable causes.

On August 27, Sri Krishna Leelotsava will take place at Car Street. Sripada will perform all poojas on Tuesday morning, and food service will begin at 11 am.

Preparations have been made to distribute Krishna Prasada to thousands of devotees at Upparige of Rajangana, the dining hall, and Anna Brahma. At 3 pm, idols of Mrinmaya Murthy of Krishna, Ananteshwara, and Utsava Murthy of Chandramouleshwara temple will be placed on the Navaratna chariot for a procession. During the procession, pots filled with curds will be broken by the Govalas of Sri Krishna Math. The Paryaya Sripada will distribute Unde and Chakkuli Prasada to the devotees. Following the procession, the Mrinmaya idol will be immersed in Madhwa lake as per tradition. Many tableaus, including the tiger dance, will also be featured.