WB: Preparations on for 'Paryaya' amidst row among Mutts

Udupi, Jan 17: Preparations are nearing completion for 'Paryaya Peetarohan'-ascension as Sri Krishna Mutt head, to be held tomorrow, amidst speculation that the ceremony may not pass off peacefully due to differences between two Mutts.

Sri Sugunendra Thirtha Swamiji (46) of Udupi 'Puthige Mutt' is expected to ascend the Paryaya Peeta at 0555 hrs tomorrow-- his third term in the office after 1976-78 and 1992-94. He is the 30th pontiff in the lineage of Puthige Mutt.

The roads are decorated with arches, buntings and banners. There would be tableaux and folk dances to add colour to the ceremony, sources said.

The seer, after having a holy dip at 'Dandathirhta,' would proceed to Jodukatte with the idol of Veera Vittala- the presiding deity of Puthige Mutt.

If the prevailing crisis over the ascension is resolved, the Pontiffs of other Asta Mutts 'would' receive the seer at Jodukatte and participate in a procession.

After having darshan of Lord Sri Krishna through 'Kanakana Kindi', the seer would proceed to Lord Anantheshwar and Lord Chandramouleeshwar temples.

The outgoing Sri Vidyasagara Thirtha Swamiji of Krishnapura Mutt, would vacate the office after performing a night pooja. He would welcome the designate seer at the temple entrance and lead him to the 'sanctum sanctorum.' After a dharshan through 'Navagraha Kindi', the outgoing seer would handover the temple keys and 'Akhsayapatra,' (golden bowl) to mark the transfer of temple administration.

The 'Paryaya' ceremony would be held at 'Simhasana' room, where the outgoing seer descending from 'Sarvajnapeeta' (holy seet), would ascend the designate to it.

UNI