Udupi Prepares for Grand Paryaya Festival with Massive Devotee Turnout Expected
Udupi city stands completely ready for the upcoming Paryaya festival. Sri Vedavardhana Tirtha of Shiroor Mutt will ascend the sacred Sarvajna Peetha of Udupi Sri Krishna Mutt this Sunday. The city buzzes with anticipation for this significant religious event.
Weekend Festival Draws Huge Crowd Expectations
Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna addressed journalists during a press conference on Wednesday. As chairman of the Udupi Paryaya Festival Reception Committee, he shared exciting details. This year's Paryaya falls on a weekend, which dramatically increases expected participation.
Organizers anticipate between two to three lakh people will attend the Paryaya procession. The procession will showcase the distinguished lineage of Shiroor Mutt. It will feature vivid mythological depictions and vibrant performances by cultural troupes from across India.
Procession Schedule and Ceremonial Events
The grand procession begins early on January 18 at 2 AM. It will continue for approximately two hours along a designated route. The procession will move from Kalpana Junction through Rathabeedi, filling the streets with devotion and color.
Following the procession, religious ceremonies will commence at Sri Krishna Mutt. During these ceremonies, the Swami will formally adorn the Sarvajna Peetha. This marks a sacred moment in the festival's traditions.
The Paryaya Darbar meeting starts at 5:30 AM at Rajangana. This newly constructed stage will host all mutt heads and regional dignitaries. Sri Vedavardhana Tirtha of Shiroor Mutt will bless devotees alongside other swamis.
Vedic scholars will deliver spiritual discourses throughout the event. Central and state ministers plan to participate, along with numerous prominent personalities. The festival promises both religious significance and cultural richness.
Ten Days of Religious and Cultural Programs
Starting January 18, the festival continues with evening programs for ten consecutive days. These events will feature religious observances and cultural performances. Many dignitaries will receive the prestigious Sri Krishna Anugraha Award during these evenings.
The swami's grand entry into Udupi city already created historical moments. Offerings have been flowing into the mutt continuously since January 10. This stream of devotion will continue through January 17, building momentum toward the main event.
Record Offerings Support Massive Feeding Programs
This year's collection of offerings is expected to set new records. These resources will support the feeding of at least three to four lakh devotees. Thousands of devotees participate daily in ongoing cultural programs and religious activities.
On January 17, the day before Paryaya, mass feeding will occur across various parts of Udupi. Approximately one lakh people are expected to participate in this community meal. Special mass feeding continues daily from January 17 through January 22.
Organizers project four to five lakh devotees will participate in these feeding programs. The community comes together to ensure no devotee goes hungry during this sacred time.
Welcome Towers Enhance Festival Atmosphere
A grand welcome tower for the Geetacharya already stands in southern Udupi. Puttige Mutt constructed this impressive structure to welcome participants. Now, another magnificent welcome tower will honor Lord Parashurama.
The Paryaya Reception Committee decided to build this tower at Udupi's northern entrance. It will rise at the national highway junction under the Diwan of Shiroor Mutt's supervision. The foundation stone laying ceremony occurs on January 16 at 9 AM.
Municipal Support for Festival Decorations
The Udupi Municipality demonstrated strong support for the festival. They released fifty lakh rupees specifically for lighting decorations throughout the city. These illuminations will enhance the festive atmosphere and guide devotees through nighttime events.
Udupi transforms into a hub of spiritual energy and cultural celebration. The city welcomes devotees from across the nation to experience this unique festival. Every detail receives careful attention to ensure a memorable and meaningful event for all participants.
