Karnataka: Car fest held in Udupi

Udupi, Karnataka, Jan 15: The 'Choornotsava' or the car festival in daylight, was held here with great religious fervor and pomp.

The event forms part of the 'Sapthotsav', the annual car festival. The 'Bramharathotsava', popularly known as 'Choornotsava,' is held on the final day falling today.

The festival was held here under the guidance of Sri Vidyasagara Thirtha Swamiji of Paryaya Krishnapura Mutt who is laying down office after two years of silent but successful biennial Paryaya ending January 17.

The pontiffs of Pejavar, Admar, Palimar, Shiroor, Kaniyur, Sode and Uttaradi Mutts participated in the festival held amid huge crowds on the main car street.

The specially made clay idol of Lord Krishna was pulled around the car street by the devotees and swamijis after Mahamangalarathi.

Sweets, coconuts, fruits and coins were thrown at the crowds from Bramaharatha.

'Choornotsava' is held annually to commemorate the installation of Lord Sri Krishna idol here by Great Saint Madhwacharya more than 800 years ago.

After the Rathotsav, the clay idol was immersed in the main temple tank -- Madhwa Sarovar-- followed by holy dip by the seers and devotees. Mass feeding was also held on the occasion by Paryaya Krishnapura Mutt.

UNI