Suttur Rathotsava Held With Religious Fervour

Thousands of devotees pulled the massive, snake-like chariot with chants of 'Har Har Mahadev' and 'Jai Shivaratri Eshwar'

- EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @Mysuru

The grand Rathotsava of Suttur Shivaratri Shivayogi was celebrated with great fervour, attracting devotees from across the state. Since early morning on Tuesday, devotees gathered along the streets where the chariot was to pass.

At the sacred Gaddige, devotees pulled the massive, snake-like chariot with chants of "Har Har Mahadev" and "Jai Shivaratri Eshwar", even as the chariot was showered with fruits and sacred offerings by people fulfilling their vows.

The day began at 4 am with the ceremonial decoration of Karthru Gaddige, followed by rituals and prayers. At 6 am, a Rudrabhisheka was conducted in honor of the monastery's spiritual lineage. By 9.30 am, royal honours were accorded to the Utsavamurti (festival deity) and at precisely 10.55 am, the idol was enshrined in the chariot after a ceremonial ritual by priests.