Sabarimala issue: Repentance time for Jayamala

Udupi (Karnataka), Jul 20: Imposing 'penance' on herself, renowned Kannada actress Jayamala, who was in the eye of a storm after revealing that she had touched the feet of Lord Ayyappa at the famous Sabarimala temple in Kerala, today conducted 'Durga Namaskara Pooja' at a temple here.

Jayamala, who was here along with her husband Ramachandra since the last three days to conduct various poojas and 'homas' at Sri Mahalingeshwar temple at Kambalgatta near Kodavoor here, conducted 'Durga Pooja' at noon, followed by 'Durga Namaskar Pooja' in the evening.

Jayamala, who declined to comment on the controversial issue, merely said she was conducting the rituals as ''penance and for peace in the family.'' All the rituals were being conducted under the guidance of a priest from Mangalore. The actress was expected to perform poojas in other Mahalingeshwar temples in the district, before leaving.

UNI