Rons Bantwal

Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai (MS)

Mumbai, Nov 25: Kartika Deepotsava, a festival of mythological significance, was celebrated with grandeur at the Gokula Sri Gopalakrishna shrine on Sunday, November 24. The event, jointly organized by the Gopalakrishna Public Trust and BSK Association, holds special importance during Kartika Masa as it is considered dear to Hari Hara.

The idol of Gokula Sri Gopalakrishna was beautifully adorned with special floral decorations by priest Vedmoorthy Ganesh Bhat. The Deepotsava commenced at 6 pm following the daily pooja, with president Dr Suresh Rao and other office bearers lighting the initial lamps. Devotees lit thousands of lamps arranged neatly across the temple's inner and outer yards, creating a spectacular sight.

Following the Ranga Pooje to the deity, the Utsava Murthy was ceremonially offered the Ashtavadhana Seve. The rituals were performed in a specially constructed mantap, adorned with vegetables, fruits, and flowers, accompanied by the rhythmic chanting of mantras, Chende, and other musical instruments. The idol was later returned to the sanctum sanctorum, and Theertha Prasada was distributed among devotees.

The Gokula Mahadwara, Theertha Mantapa, Garba Griha, Gokula Sabhagriha, and the special mantap were illuminated with flowers and lights, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. The Gokula Sabhagriha was packed with thousands of devotees, and over 500 devotees enjoyed the Prasada Bhojana. The memorable Kartika Deepotsava concluded on a spiritual and joyous note.