Pics: Spoorthi Ullal

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, Feb 13: The annual event, 'Kodial Teru', which is both sacrosanct and occasion to celebrate for GSB community, was celebrated here on Tuesday February 12. Thousands of people visited Lord Venkatarama temple in the city on the occasion, paid obeisance to the presiding deity, partook the 'Prasadam' by way of community feast, and felt blessed during this six-day event culminating today.

The presence of Sri Samyamindrateertha Swamiji, spiritual head of Kashi Math, added to the grandeur of the occasion. Prayers were offered on Tuesday morning followed with Panchamrut Abhisheka beginning at 9 am. Rituals like Pulakabhisheka, Kanakabhisheka, Gangabhisheka, Poorvaka Mahabhisheka and Shatakalashabisheka followed since 11 am. The Lord's idol was brought to the Yajna Mantap for the oblation. Poornahuti and Arathi were performed at 3.30 pm.

Puja was performed to the elaborately decorated chariot of the Lord at 5 pm after which the Lord was seated on the chariot. The chariot was pulled around midnight. Vasanta Puja was performed in the early hours of Wednesday.

Today happens to be the last day of the annual celebrations, on which 'Avabhrutotsava' also known as Okuli, is being held. Various pujas including oblations are lined up today followed by taking out a procession of the Lord's idol in golden palanquin in the afternoon. People accompanying the palanquin customarily spray coloured water at each other. The procedures will end with Ratri puja, Vasant Puja, distribution of Prasadam and community feast at night.