Nanjangud -
The Temple Town of Nanjangud came alive with chants in praise of Lord Srikanteshwara as the famous Dodda Jathra festival was held with traditional gaiety and fervour this morning. Lakhs of devotees witnessed the Gauthama Panchamaharathotsava. Panchamaharathotsava involves the pulling of five Rathas or chariots dedicated to different Gods, by devotees, to the accompaniment of sacred chants and traditional music. Today’s Rathotsava, however, had to face a minor glitch as the left front wheel of the 80-ft main chariot (Lord Srikanteshwara) sank by the side of the road. The wheel of the chariot was later lifted with the help of a JCB and the Rathotsava resumed. Devotees thronged the temple premises as early as 4 am and witnessed the car festival which was held between 5.20 am and 6.20 am in the auspicious Meena Lagna. Devotees have been coming to the Jathra Mahotsava from various parts of Mysuru district and outside since the last three days. As the auspicious time began, Srikanteshwara Temple Chief Priest Nagachandra Dixit, accompanied by other temple priests, offered special pujas to the 120-tonne and 80-ft tall chariot that carried the idol of Lord Srikanteshwara before signalling the commencement of the Jathra Mahotsava.
