Pics: Edgar Cardoza
Daijiworld Media Network - Karkala (EC)

Karkala, Jan 17: The annual feast celebrations of St Lawrence Shrine, Attur, got under way on Sunday January 17 with the formal inauguration of the nine-day Novena near the grotto of the miraculous statue of St Lawrence of the Shrine.

Vinay Kumar Sorake, Udupi district in-charge and urban development minister, inaugurated the occasion by lighting the lamp. Gopal Bhandary, former MLA of Karkala presided over the inaugural ceremony.

In his address, Sorake said that he was happy to have the privilege of inaugurating the annual feast of St Lawrence Shrine for the past two years. "People of different beliefs come and offer their prayers to St Lawrence. A lot of development works are taking place under the leadership of Fr George D'Souza, director of the Shrine, and bishop of Udupi diocese Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo. This shrine has a lot of potential for growth and the devotees visiting here should spread a message of peace, integrity and unity in the society.

"The government has also started giving more importance to the development of the shrine. A lot of people are working towards this end, especially former union minister Veerappa Moily along with the leaders of this place. I congratulate Fr George and all the people putting in their efforts to develop the Shrine. May St Lawrence blesses us all in all aspects of life," Sorake said.

Gopal Bhandary said, "Ever since Fr George took charge of this Shrine, lots of developments have taken place. The Shrine has got a facelift and is moving in the path of development. At the same time, the government is also responding well to our needs. Last year when chief minister Siddaramaiah was in Karkala to attend the Mahamastakabhisheka of Bahubali, he paid a short visit to the Shrine. Later in Bengaluru, he personally told me that he attained peace of mind after visiting this shrine.

"The government has already sanctioned Rs 15 crore for the development of the Shrine. The amount was used to construct and modify the road leading from Kabettu to the Shrine. A part of the amount is also being used for renovation of the Kabettu bridge. The road to Doopadakatte has already been widened and there is a need to asphalt the road for smooth travelling. There is a lot more to be done and all of us are working towards it. Coming here and praying to St Lawrence brings happiness and peace to the mind. Let us all join hands in bringing up such a place where all religions are brought together and the message of brotherhood is sent out to the society," he said.

Suprith Shetty, member, zilla panchayat, Rahima, president, tow municipal council, Karkala, Laxmi Shetty, president, Nitte gram panchayat, Deepak, contractor and George Castelino were present on this occasion.

Richard Pinto, vice-president, Attur Shrine compered the programme, while John D'Silva, former vice-president, Attur Shrine welcomed the gathering, and Veena D'Silva proposed the vote of thanks.