Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SB)

Mangaluru, Apr 12: 'Chendu’, one of the unique features of the month-long Goddess Rajarajeshwari Temple, Polali annual festivities, which begins seven days prior to the ‘Avabhruta’ day, concluded with the game of ‘Kade Chendu’ on Wednesday, April 11.

Hundreds of devotees from far and near places took part in this event and played ‘Chendu’ representing their respected villages.

Kumara Teru, Hoo Teru, Soorya Mandala, Chandra Mandala, and Pallakki Utsav are organized during the five-day event. After the conclusion of ‘Chendu’, ‘Deevatige Salamu Bali’ was held. The festivities will culminate with a grand ‘Polali Rathotsava’ on Thursday, April 12.

It is said that in 1686, Rani Chennamma was impressed by this sport played during the annual festivities of the Polali temple, located on the banks of river Phalguni reflecting the cultural heritage of this region.

Many religious activities have been cut down this year due to the renovation work of the temple. The connection between the annual temple fair and the watermelons is such that the watermelons grown in Polali for the fair are called ‘Puralda Prasada’, (Polali is called Pural in Tulu dialect), which means Prasadam from Polali Temple. This ritual was canceled this year. According to the administration, once the renovation of the temple is completed, Brahmakalashostva will be held. After that event, the annual temple fair will be held as usual.