Temple town Udupi is set for the grand celebration of Sri Krishna Janmasthami. Owing to the differences in the calendars followed by astha mutts, the present Paryaya Vishwesha Theertha seer has set a new trend by organising a two-day celebration on Aug. 24 and 25. The famous Sri Krishna Leelotsava aka Vittal Pindi will be held on Friday, Aug. 26.
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Speaking to International Business Times India, Ramachandra Upadhaya, the administration in-charge of the mutt, said: "There were differences of opinion over celebrating the Janmasthami. It is because if Sode, Kaniyoor, Krishnapura, and Shiroor Mutts follow 'Surya Sidhantha,' Pejawar, Palimar, Puttige and Admar Mutt follow 'Druksidhantha.' Sitting seers often prefer to follow their tradition which has now been broken by Vishwesha Theertha, who has organised two-day celebration. 'Arghya Pradhana' ritual will be held on both the days at 11.48 pm."
As part of the celebration, the mutt is preparing four types of ladoos and a over a lakh 'chakkulis'. "We are distributing about 32,000 chakkulis to the schools in Udupi," says Upadhaya. One of the prime attractions of the Janmasthami celebrations in the temple town remains 'huli vesha' (regal tiger dance).
"In the recent years, it has purely become an event of entertainment for the crowd and the culture factor seems to be missing. This year, it will be performed in the traditional way," he adds.
On Aug. 26, Vittal Pindi will be held as per tradition. The clay deity of Lord Krishna will be carried in a golden chariot at 3.30 pm in a procession on the Car Street before immersing it in the Madhwa Sarovara. 'Huli vesha,' fancy dress competition 'mosaru kodike' and various other cultural events will be held during the Sri Krishna Leelotsava.
The mutt management expects a turnout of 40,000 devotees for meals on Friday and over a lakh are expected to witness the Vittal Pindi. The temple premises is decked up with flowers for Janmasthami celebration.
