By Adolf Washington
Bengaluru, Sep 9: Nestled between two historical places; a mosque and a temple, the century-old St Mary’s Basilica (built 1882) about 2 miles from the Archbishops House, in Bengaluru, a Southern state in India saw over three thousand devotees, September 8, according to Police estimates.
Kaavi (saffron)-clad devotees of various religious backgrounds with flower petals, salt and pepper were seen devoutly hurling them at the gorgeously decorated hand-pushed chariot with the image of Mother Mary and the Infant Jesus in hand.
The sacred-chariot chugged into the Basilica premises around 9.50pm (IST).
Chief Minister of Karnataka State, Siddaramaiah, in his message drew reference to "increasing drought in the State and perils farmers are facing in almost 27 districts". He urged devotees to pray fervently to Mother Mary for a better monsoon. Home Minister KJ George and Minister Roshan Baig were also present for the flag-off of the Chariot.
Archbishop Bernard Moras told the gathering "It is so inspiring to see so many of you come to the Basilica of our Mother year-after-year. May our faith in our Blessed Mother make us torchbearers of peace and goodwill wherever we are". The prelate spoke about respect for the girl-child and also urged devotees to pray for farmers in peril due to failing monsoons.
The 160 feet high Basilica draws millions of people from various religious backgrounds from India and abroad throughout the year.