Mysuru: Cricket is like a religion in the country and appropriately for the first time the Priests (Agamikas) and Astrologers have come together to play the game instead of performing pujas and reading panchangas (almanac). 

Former International Cricketer and Mysuru’s own Javagal Srinath inaugurated an eight-over three-day Tennis Ball Cricket Tournament organised by Karnataka Agamikas and Astrologers Cricket Association (KAACA) at the Railway Workshop grounds on Manandavadi Road here this morning, by releasing the pigeons and batting.

Srinath, recalling that even his grandfather was an Astrologer, asked the Agamikas and Astrologers to play the game of cricket with interest and dedication. 

He also asked the KAACA members not to limit it to just one tournament but continue to hold it every year as cricket helps build bonds and unity among the community of people who have come from different parts of the State.

Belagavi Hukkeri Hiremath Pontiff Chandrashekar Shivacharya Mahaswamiji said that it was good to see the Priests and the Astrologers, who hold bells and panchanga, today with the bats and balls. He asked them that while they were playing cricket they should not forget their original profession.

Srirangapatna Chandravana Ashram Seer Sri Trinethra Mahanta Shivayogi Mahaswamiji said that cricket is a game which has become popular all over the world and everyone swears by it. Hence, playing this game will help the community to come together.

There are 16 teams in all divided into four groups of A,B, C and D, who will be playing eight-over games. The teams have come from Belagavi, Chintamani, Raichur, Kolar, Hassan, Shivamogga, Bengaluru, Mandya, Bandipur and Mysuru. 

The final is slated for July 29 at 1 pm and the winner will take home the trophy and Rs.50,000 in cash while the runners-up will be satisfied with Rs.25,000. 

Earlier, to the inauguration of the Tournament, Vishwa Veeraghase troupe performed. Suttur Panchanga Karta Dr. K.G. Puttahonnaiah, Industrialist and Karnataka’s first Veeraghase artiste Hemalatha Chidananda, KAACA President Dr. Muguru Madhu Dikshit, Mysuru City and District Brahmana Sangha President D.T. Prakash and others were present.