Dharmasthala: A Sacred Heritage of Eight Centuries to Shine with Lakshadeepotsava Festivities
Dharmasthala, Nov 25, 2024: Nestled in the serene lap of Karnataka, Dharmasthala—a revered temple town with an illustrious history spanning over 800 years—is set to host the grand Lakshadeepotsava celebrations from November 26 to 30.
Renowned as a haven of inclusivity, Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala embodies the essence of unity, with its deep-rooted principles of truth, righteousness, justice, and moral values shaping its sanctity.
A hallmark of this sacred land is its unwavering commitment to philanthropy. Through Annadana (food charity), Vidyadana (education charity), Abhayadana (shelter charity), and Aushadhidana (health charity), Dharmasthala has become a sanctuary of selfless service. The unique Nyayadana (dispensation of justice), anchored in trust and integrity, resolves countless familial and societal disputes amicably, fostering harmonious living among communities.
The festivities will commence on Tuesday evening with the Hosakatte Utsava, marking the inauguration of the much-anticipated Lakshadeepotsava. Earlier that afternoon, a procession of over 25,000 devotees will embark on a pilgrimage from Ujire to Dharmasthala, chanting bhajans and offering prayers. Prominent leaders, including MLA Harish Poonja and MLC K. Prathap Simha Nayak, are set to participate in this divine journey. Following this, at 7 PM, Dharmadhikari Dr. Veerendra Heggade will address devotees at the Amritavarshini Hall, offering spiritual guidance.
The temple and its surroundings have been transformed into a visual spectacle with intricate electric lighting adorning the Temple, Basadis (Jain shrines), guesthouses, entry gates, gardens, and other structures. The streets leading from the Nethravathi bathing ghat to Dharmasthala are lined with dazzling illuminations and welcoming arches, creating a festive ambiance.
Adding to the grandeur is a state-level exhibition featuring over 300 stalls within the high school premises, offering a wide array of attractions. This exhibition, open to all, promises to be a delightful experience for visitors. Each evening, cultural programs showcasing art and tradition will further enhance the celebratory spirit.
The daily lineup of events includes:
- Tuesday: Hosakatte Utsava
- Wednesday: Kerekatte Utsava
- Thursday: Kanchimarukatte Utsava
- Saturday: Gaurimarukatte Utsava (Lakshadeepotsava)
The highlight, as always, will be Saturday’s Lakshadeepotsava, drawing over a lakh devotees to Dharmasthala to witness this grand celebration of devotion and light.
To accommodate the influx of devotees, KSRTC has arranged special buses from various parts of the state, while numerous pilgrims will arrive on foot as part of their sacred vow.
With its blend of devotion, tradition, and community spirit, the Lakshadeepotsava promises to be a luminous celebration, radiating the timeless values of Dharmasthala to devotees near and far.
