Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru / Udupi
Mangaluru / Udupi, Jan 1: Coastal Karnataka welcomed the New Year with devotion, festivities, and scenic gatherings, as thousands thronged temples, beaches, and public spaces across Mangaluru and Udupi districts.
At the renowned Kudroli Gokarnanatha Temple in Mangaluru, hundreds of devotees gathered at dawn to participate in the Silver Chariot Festival, pulling the chariot of Lord Gokarnanatha and offering their gratitude for a prosperous 2026.
The festival, conceptualised by former union minister and temple trustee B Janardhana Poojary, is celebrated every year on January 1. This year’s celebrations began at sunrise, with elaborate rituals inside the temple.
Following the Ganapathi Ganahoma, priests performed Dhanur Puja for Lord Gokarnanatha. By 6:15 am, the festival idol was brought out from the sanctum sanctorum and placed on the silver chariot. After puja and arati atop the chariot, devotees pulled the chariot three times around the temple, marking the first auspicious act of the year.
“Participating in the chariot procession is our way of expressing gratitude and seeking blessings for the year ahead,” said one devotee. The ritual drew hundreds, symbolising faith, devotion, and community spirit.
In Udupi, youth celebrated the New Year with vibrant music, dance performances, and cultural programmes, culminating in late-night festivities on December 31.
Authorities ensured strict security across highways and beaches. Highway patrol units and Hoysala vehicles monitored drunk driving, reckless stunts, and unlawful activity, while Coastal police teams inspected homestays, hotels, resorts, pubs, and bars to prevent illegal parties or drug-related events.
At Malpe Beach, hundreds of locals and tourists gathered to witness the last sunset of 2025. “We came from Bengaluru to catch the final sunset of the year. It’s the perfect start to 2026,” said a visitor. Beaches were crowded from evening onwards, with people from Bengaluru, Mysuru, and other districts joining locals to celebrate the New Year along the coastline.
From devotional rituals at temples in Mangaluru to beachside celebrations and cultural programmes in Udupi, Coastal Karnataka welcomed 2026 with faith, festivity, and community spirit.
Authorities maintained order while residents and tourists embraced the unique blend of devotion, music, dance, and scenic gatherings, marking a memorable start to the new year.