Historic Moment as Youngest Seer Assumes Sacred Role at Udupi's Sri Krishna Mutt
Udupi witnessed a landmark event on Sunday when Sri Vedavardhana Thirtha Swamiji of Shiroor Mutt ascended the Sarvajna Peetha. He now holds the sacred responsibility of conducting worship for Lord Sri Krishna at the renowned Sri Krishna Mutt. This historic occasion marks him as the youngest seer ever to assume this revered position.
Grand Procession and Rituals Mark the Beginning
The Paryaya Mahotsava celebrations commenced in the early hours with a vibrant procession. Thousands of devotees gathered to witness the Paryaya procession arriving from Jodukatte. Before the procession started, Sri Vedavardhana Thirtha Swamiji performed a holy dip at DandaThirtha. He then proceeded to Jodukatte, from where the procession moved towards Ratha Beedi.
The procession reached Udupi in the early morning, creating a spiritual atmosphere across the city. Upon arrival, the seer had darshan of Lord Krishna through the Kanakana Kindi. He also offered prayers to Sri Chandramoulishwara and Sri Ananteshwara, seeking blessings for his new role.
Ceremonial Transfer of Responsibilities
The outgoing Paryaya pontiff, Sri Sugunendra Thirtha Swamiji of Sri Puttige Mutt, formally welcomed the Shiroor seer. He performed the ceremonial handover of the Akshaya Pathre, soutu, and the mutt keys. This act symbolized the formal transfer of Paryaya responsibilities from one pontiff to another.
With this transfer, the two-year term of administering the Sri Krishna temple officially began. Sri Vedavardhana Thirtha Swamiji then offered the daily puja to Lord Krishna for the first time as the Paryaya Peetha pontiff. This moment marked the start of his spiritual leadership at the mutt.
Festive Celebrations Across Udupi
Udupi city wore a festive look throughout the grand celebrations. Devotees participated in large numbers, partaking in anna prasada arranged on a massive scale. The colourful Paryaya procession featured an impressive display of cultural diversity.
- Over 85 cultural troupes from different states participated
- Several vibrant tableaux drew admiration from spectators
- Pontiffs from various mutts attended the celebrations
- Public representatives and other dignitaries joined the event
Cultural Programmes and Community Participation
Various clubs and organisations organised cultural programmes to mark the occasion. Shops and establishments across Udupi city decorated their premises in celebration. The Oscar Fernandes Fans Club made significant contributions to the cultural events.
The club organised a Kunitha Bhajane dance competition based on religious themes. They also staged a Yakshagana performance at Congress Bhavana in Udupi. Club president Yathish Karkera explained their motivation for participating.
"Former Union minister Oscar Fernandes consistently supported Paryaya Mahotsava celebrations," said Karkera. "To carry forward his legacy, his fans organise cultural programmes during the Paryaya festival every year. This year's events also expressed gratitude to Shiroor Mutt for its social initiatives during Sri Laxmivara Thirtha Swamiji's tenure."
The celebrations demonstrated strong community spirit and religious devotion. The successful transfer of responsibilities ensures the continuation of sacred traditions at one of India's most revered spiritual centers.
