Seer controversy nears culmination

Udupi,Karnataka, Jan 15 (UNI) Sri Vidyasagara Thirtha Swamiji of Paryaya Krishnapura Mutt will complete his two-year 'Paryaya' at Sri Krishna Temple here on January 17 amid the controversy surrounding ascendancy of Puttige Mutt Seer Sugunendra Thirtha.

There has been widespread opposition to the Puttige Seer taking over the 'Paryaya' due to trips made by him to overseas countries, including the US, which was against traditions.

However, the decks have been cleared legally for Sri Sugunendra Thirtha Swamiji to ascend the Paryaya Peeta and perform Sri Krishna Pooja after a suit in the Udupi Court was dismissed yesterday, The other matadhipathis of Asta Mutt (Eight Mutts) are still hoping the incoming seer will make some alternative arrangements as suggested by them to uphold the tradition of the temple.

The outgoing Paryaya Krishnapura Mutt Seer had kept a low profile.

During his tenure, work on the Rs three crore 'Vajra Kavacha' (Diamond Armour) for Lord Mukhayaprana (Lord Hanuman) was completed and the offering made on January 11. Several minor/ repair/renovation works inside the temple were carried out without donations.

Meanwhile, Sri Vishvesha Thirtha Swamiji, the senior pontiff of Pejavar Mutt commenced his three-day fasting to show a 'good path' to the pontiff of Puthige Mutt.

The pontiff of Palimar Mutt had already began fasting for the same reason.

According to Mutt sources, a written draft pertaining to Sri Krishna Mutt and Asta Mutt Swamijis on a bond paper banning 'Videshyaan'and on tradition and customs followed by the swamijis of Asta Mutt at the temple had been sent to the pontiff of Puthige Mutt last night.

The Pejavar Mutt Seer had also said if Puthige Seer kept himself away from Paryaya Peetarohan and Krishna Pooja, he (Pejavar seer) was ready to sacrifice air travel in future as challenged by Puthige Seer.

In the draft, rules have also been laid down for Asta Mutt Swamijis to undertake tour only between Kanyakumari and Muktinarayana Temple (Badrinath) and from Dwaraka to Bengal.

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