As Tamil Nadu gets set to mark rare event, devotees in the state seek a share
When it comes to Cauvery, nothing is simple between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. This time, it’s about the puja being offered to the river on the occasion of Cauvery Pushkara, an event that is marked once in 12 years. The religious ceremony is a puja offered to the river aimed at plentiful rainfall and prosperity. While the Karnataka government has not made any plans to celebrate the occasion, Tamil Nadu, at the behest of Kanchi Mutt, has decided to hold elaborate rituals at three places.
The Pushkara tradition is associated with 12 major rivers of India, and this year it is the Cauvery’s turn.
According to Vidwan Ganesh Galapati, the Kanchi mutt has not only written to the Tamil Nadu government but also planned major functions at several places, including Hogenakkal, Nerur, Trichy, Thiruvaiyaru, Kumbakonam, and Mayiladuthurai. While the rituals will be held between September 12 and 23, the pundits in Karnataka are not happy with the fact that there has been no communication from the Religious Endowment department of Karnataka on the celebrations.
“The government did Parjanya japa in the first week of June and similarly it should also take up Pushkara ritual that has come after 12 years. Cauvery has been the backbone for both states. We all know what it would mean to not have any water in the river. As the purpose of the ritual is to pray for bounteous rains and prosperity of the state, the government must initiate a programme to take up the rituals either at Talacauvery or T Narasipur,” said Galapati. Bhagandeshwara Temple’s executive officer Jagadish Kumar confirmed that, so far, no such orders have been issued. “If the government issues any such order, we will arrange for such rituals.”
About the Puja
Vidwan Ganesh Galapati explains: “Each river is associated with a zodiac sign. Depending on where Jupiter is positioned during the cycle, the puja is done. This time, Jupiter will enter Libra (Tula) sign from Virgo (Kanya) by first week of September, which will be regarded as Pushkara Kala. The rituals will not only purify the river but also bring prosperity,” he explained.
source: http://www.bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com / Bangalore Mirror / Home> Bengaluru> Others / by Niranjan Kaggere, Bangalore Mirror Bureau / July 03rd, 2017
