Udupi gears up for historic Paryaya

Photos By R.K.Bhat

Mangalore: The temple town is gearing up to witness the magnificent gala and most significant event of biennial Paryaya festival on January 18, where the 23-year-old Sode Mutt pontiff Sri Vishwavallabha Theertha ascend the sacred ‘Paryaya Sarvajna Peeta’ and take over the charges to run the temple administration and Sri Krishna pooja for the next two years.

All roads leading to the main Car Street are getting a facelift. The movement of vehicles on Car Street have been banned, thus paving way for free movement of the pedestrians.

The entire Car Street is seen glittering with illumination and the entire mutt has been illuminated giving a grandeur look. Buntings, banners and welcome arches have been erected on the main Paryaya procession route from traditional entrance point of Jodukatte to Car Street covering a distance of about two kilometres. 

The entire ambience surrounding the temple town is wearing a festive look. The two main ‘Gopurams’ of Sri Krishna mutt shrine have been re-painted and illuminated and the entire Car Street is glittering with lightings.

Paryaya procession

The Paryaya procession will begin at around 5 am at Jodukatte and culminates at Rajanagana at 7.30 am on January 18 followed by Paryaya Darbar at 8.50 am. Sri Krishna Vittala Anugraha award ceremony is organised on the same day at 5.30 pm.

Security 

Meanwhile, elaborate security arrangements have been made to maintain law and order and smooth conduct of the Paryaya Mahotasava in view of the large number of devotees visiting Udupi. Hi-tech security arrangements have been made with installation of 32 CCTV cameras around and outside the main Car Street.