Daijiworld Media Network- Udupi (NP)

Udupi, Mar 2: Karnataka deputy chief minister D K Shivakumar took part in the consecration ceremony of the Kaup Sri Hosa Marigudi Temple, offering Rs 9,99,999 towards the temple’s gold kalasha seva in the name of his wife, Usha.

Speaking at the event, D K ShIvakumar said that “I have attended the event as a devotee rather than in my official capacity. I have never seen people build temples without government aid anywhere else in the state. I feel blessed to be here. I will send my wife and family to visit this temple and will return after all events are completed,” he said.

Speaking on the significance of faith, Shivakumar remarked that “I have been given the chance to worship my Motherland, Mother Earth, and the Goddess. Every religion teaches us to preserve our faith and refrain from harming others. Those who serve temples receive divine blessings. No human can live without devotion”.

Highlighting the sacred nature of temples, Shivakumar said, “No matter the religion, the fundamental principles remain the same. The Chamundeshwari deity and this region share historical significance. I have heard that 'Kaup' signifies a place of protection. Receiving the first prasada of Mariamma is a blessing, and I consider myself fortunate to have received it.”

During the ceremony, Shivakumar was felicitated by BJP MLA Gurme Suresh Shetty on behalf of the Kaup constituency. As a mark of honour, he was also offered the first prasada of the temple’s deity, Mariamma.

Gurme Suresh Shetty, MLA Kaup; Vinay Kumar Sorake, minister; Jayaprakash Hegde, former MP; Dr K Vidyakumari, deputy commissioner; Dr M N Rajendra Kumar, president SCDCC Bank: Manjunath Bhandary, MLC, Pratibha R, Kaup Tahsildar and others were present on the occasion.