Madikeri: 

Reinstating a tradition that had been followed for generations and interrupted at times, traditionally dressed Kodava men and women, with the women carrying ‘Thaliyathakki Bolcha’ (a brass plate with rice and a traditional lamp), walked barefoot from Bhagamandala to Talacauvery in a Padayatra, singing praises to the Goddess. 

They gathered at the Sri Bhagandeshwara Swamy Temple in Bhagamandala and walked to Talacauvery. The procession was led by Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna, actors Bhuvan Ponnanna and Harshika Poonacha.

Various Kodava organisations, including the United Kodava Organisation, Kodava Riders Club, Akhila Kodava Samaja Youth Wing, and members of numerous Kodava associations, participated in the Padayatra.

Notable figures such as Kodagu District Minister N.S. Boseraju, MP Pratap Simha, MLA Dr. Manthar Gowda, Deputy Commissioner Venkat Raja, Superintendent of Police Ramarajan, Zilla Panchayat CEO Varnith Negi, Temple ‘Thakka Mukhyasta’ Kodi Motaiah, Balladka Appaji and other village elders were present.

At the confluence of Triveni Sangama in Bhagamandala, rituals such as ‘Pinda Pradana’ (offering) and ‘Keshamundana’ (tonsure), along with other traditional pujas, were conducted. Free KSRTC bus services were provided for devotees traveling from Bhagamandala to Talacauvery.

Early morning refreshments and afternoon lunch and prasadam were arranged for all devotees by Kodagu Ekikarana Ranga and other voluntary organisations.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / October 18th, 2023