Nanjangud : Nanjangud, famous as the Dakshina Kashi, is in a celebration mood. The pilgrim town will be witness to Pancha Maharathotsava (Car Festival) of Lord Srikanteshwara very soon. Devotees are swarming this historic town which is 25 kms away from Mysore. The Srikanteshwara Temple of Nanjangud is world famous and has a great history. The Pancha Maharathotsava being held here every year during the Meena Maasa on Uttara Nakshatra day is a unique event. This year, the celebrations will be held on March 24.
Gauthama Ratha-the special attraction :
During the Pancharathotsava, five chariots of Lord Ganapathi, Srikanteshwara, Parvathi, Subrahmanya, Chandikeshwara and Gauthama will be pulled by the devotees. Of these the Gauthama Ratha has a place of significance and the main attraction. The chariot which weighs around 205 tonnes, is 90 feet tall. The idol of Lord Srikantha decked with Navaratnas and adorned with flowers will be placed in the chariot and offered pooja under the leadership of the chief priest of the temple, early in the morning. The Rathotsava begins with the offering of Mahamangalarathi.
The gathered devotees will be soaked in devotion on witnessing the great moment and slogans ‘Jai Srikantha, Jai Nanjunda’ will touch the skies as the chariot is pulled by thousands of devotees. As the chariot moves forth devotees throw plantains over it and fulfill their harake. The chariot then reaches the Rajagopura and stands face to face to it providing a great sight to the onlookers. There is also a tradition of newly wed couple throwing fruits and grains towards the chariot.
Every year this festival which has a history of several hundreds of years, is held ether in March and April when the entire town of Nanjangud will be decked up like a bride. The mood is festive all over. The district administration too has taken sufficient precautionary arrangements in the backdrop of a mishap during a Rathotsava of the past when one person was killed and three sustained serious injuries.
Renovated chariots : The ancient chariots of the temple which were in poor shape, had been repaired around two years ago at a cost of Rs 35 lakhs. A team of around 12 sculptors led by Ramaswamy Achar of Kanyakumari had undertaken the works.
This time, the administration has made special bus arrangements to Nanjangud from Mysore for the convenience of the devotees.