Manju Neereshwallya
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Feb 15: Festive atmosphere filled city's Car Street here on Sunday February 14 as thousands of people beloging to the GSB community gathered to witness the annual 'Kodial Teru' or Car Festival of Shree Venkataramana Temple.
At 5.30 pm, the idol of lord Veera Venkatesh was installed on the golden palaquin and raised in celebration by the devotees together while being taken round the outer perambulatory path of the temple.
The deity's idol was then installed in the chariot at 6.05 pm and taken around the Temple Square amid the chanting of 'Srimad Ramaramana Govinda, Govinda' and music rendered by bands.
Sri Samyamindrateertha Swamiji, who recently took charge of the Kashi Math, performed 'maha mangalarthi' to lord Veera Venkatesh.
Managing trustee of Shree Venkataramana Temple M Padmanabha Pai and other trustees accepted 'prasada' on behalf of the community.
Ramdas Kamath, MP Nalin Kumar Kateel, former MLA Yogish Bhat and other dignitaries were present.
Earlier, ceremonial ablution (Abhisheka) of the deities was performed with tender coconut water and holy water. Rituals such as Gangabhisheka, Panchamrita and Shatakalashabhisheka were also performed under the guidance of Sri Samyamindrateertha Swamiji.
The atmosphere was festive as devotees from near and far converged to participate in the celebrations.