Pics: Thejaswi U Poojary

Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Jan 9: Sri Vedavardhana Teertha Swamiji of Sri Shiroor Math, who will ascend the Sarvajna Peetha for the first time on January 18, received a warm and traditional welcome during a grand "Pura Pravesha" held in Udupi today.

The ceremonial Pura Pravesha was conducted in a majestic and traditional manner, commencing from the Sri Mahishamardini Temple at Kadiyali. As part of the rituals, Sri Vedavardhana Teertha Swamiji offered special pooja to Goddess Mahishamardini upon entering the city.

Following the rituals, the Swamiji was taken through the city in a beautifully decorated chariot. The colourful procession was accompanied by vibrant tableaus, folk dance troupes, bhajan teams, band sets, chende, puppetry, and classical musical instruments, attracting large crowds along the route.

The procession commenced from Sharada Kalyana Mantapa and proceeded via Route 169(A), Shiribeedu Junction, Service Bus Stand, Triveni Junction, and Kanakadasa Road.

Later, Sri Vedavardhana Teertha Swamiji visited Anantheshwara and Chandramouleshwara Temples, followed by darshan of Lord Sri Krishna through the historic Kanakana Kindi. He then proceeded to Sri Krishna Math, where he offered prayers and had darshan of Lord Sri Krishna.

Prominent dignitaries and leaders who participated in the event included MLA and president, Paryaya Swagatha Committee Yashpal Suvarna, MP Kota Srinivas Poojary, MLA Kiran Kumar Kodgi, Udupi district deputy commissioner Swaroopa T K, City Municipality Commissioner Mahantesh Hangaragi, former minister Pramod Madwaraj, former MLA Raghupathi Bhat, Ajay Shetty of Ujwal Developers, Vasudeva Shetty, Badagubettu Credit Cooperative Society president Indrali Jayakar Shetty, pro chancellor MAHE Manipal H S Ballal, Mattar Rathnakar Hegde, Suprasad Shetty, former BJP state president Naleen Kumar Kateel, and Math Diwan Dr Udaykumar Saralattaya, along with numerous devotees.