M'lore: Historical Bappanadu Rathotsava Draws Devotees from Far and Wide

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (RD/GA)
Pics: RK Durga Digitals

Mangalore, Mar 28: The annual 'Rathotsava' of historically famous Sri Durga Parameshwari temple, located at Bappanadu near Mulky here was held with religious fervour on Thursday March 27.  The chariot of the temple was pulled in the stagnant waters of the paddy fields in the presence of sea of devotees who had flocked in from far and near. The residents of neighbourhood including temple trustees were doubtful of pulling the chariot on ‘Rathotsava’ day owing to the unseasonal rains that had lashed across the coastal districts for almost a week. 

Meanwhile, a few changes were made on the usual path during this year’s Rathotsava, mainly owing to stagnant waters at the venue. Tractor was used along with muscle power, in order to pull the chariot ceremoniously.  Determined youth of local sports club joined by devotees, succeeded in pulling the celebrated chariot through the stagnant water.

About Bappanadu Temple:

This temple is situated on the banks of Shambhavi River at Bappanadu village of Mulki town. The main deity of this temple is Goddess Shri Durgaparameshwari. The place Bappanadu means Bappa's village. As per the legend Bappa, a Muslim merchant is responsible for the temple construction. Bappanadu Dolu (musical drum) is well-known and there is a large drum that is kept on the side of the temple.

Bappanadu Sri Durgaparameshwari temple is one of the main Shakti worship Centres of the Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.  Here, the main deity is in the form of Linga (symbolic statue). Eligibility of Muslims for accepting prasadas (blessings) of the temple is one of the special features of the Kshetra. Muslims also participate in the temple festivals. Even today the prasadas of the very first day of the festival is given to the house of Bappa Beary.