Kerala Governor Lauds Sanathana Dharma at Mahamagha Festival Inauguration
Governor Rajendra Arlekar formally inaugurated the Mahamagha Mahotsavam at Thirunavaya on Monday. He conducted the traditional hoisting of the ceremonial flag to mark the start of the festival.
Governor Emphasizes Unity and Righteousness
Speaking at the event, Arlekar highlighted the enduring nature of Sanathana Dharma. He stated that this great tradition revives itself repeatedly through history.
"Let nobody fear us," Arlekar declared. "We have always brought people together. We never left the country to conquer lands. We went abroad only to win hearts."
The governor explained that dharma transcends mere rituals or worship forms. He described it as righteousness itself.
"Dharma means a commitment to what is right, just, and humane," Arlekar emphasized. "This heritage is our pride. We should never feel ashamed of it. I follow this path with deep conviction."
Tamil Nadu Police Denies Permission for Rath Yatra
Meanwhile, festival organizers faced a significant hurdle. Tamil Nadu police refused permission for a planned rath yatra procession.
This procession was supposed to commence from Thirumoorthy Hills near Udumalaipettai in Tamil Nadu. These hills serve as the source of the Bharatapuzha river.
One organizer expressed disappointment over the Tamil Nadu government's decision. He called the blockage unfortunate for the festival.
"We cannot understand whether these obstacles come from directions in Chennai or Thiruvananthapuram," the organizer remarked.
Revised Plans and Festival Continuation
The yatra will now proceed from Palakkad instead. Organizers will follow the pre-decided schedule from this new starting point.
Receptions and related programs will still occur at temples along the route from Palakkad. All events remain confined to temple and ashram premises.
No roadside events were ever planned, the organizer clarified. The procession involves a simply decorated four-wheeler vehicle.
Permission denial came just hours before the yatra's scheduled start. This last-minute decision forced quick adjustments.
The Mahamagha Mahotsavam continues with Nila Aarti performances along riverbanks. These rituals will run from Monday through February 3rd, when the festival concludes.
