Mysuru: Thousands of devotees thronged the Chamundeshwari Temple atop the Chamundi Hill on the occasion of last Ashada Friday this morning.
Devotees reached the hill-top as early as 2 am and stood in queues till 5.30 am before the temple doors were open for darshan of Goddess Chamundeshwari. As usual, special puja rituals began at 3 am under the guidance of Chief Priest Dr. Shashishekar Dixit and Devi Prasad. Devotees braved the chilly weather and early morning drizzle to have a glimpse of the Goddess.
The temple was decorated with various flowers and many volunteers were seen distributing prasadam for the devotees near the Mahishasura statue. This apart, thousands of devotees also climbed the steps from the foothill to fulfil their vows.
City Police teams headed by DCP (law and order) Dr. H.T. Shekar had provided tight security atop the hill. Announcements were being made through loudspeakers cautioning the devotees about pickpockets on the prowl.
Deputy Commissioner D. Randeep along with his wife Arpita Raj and daughter Aarna are seen at the Chamundeshwari Temple atop the Chamundi Hill on the last Ashada Friday this morning.
Many devotees travelled in special buses operated by KSRTC from Lalitha Mahal Helipad and City Bus Stand. Legislators from across the State too visited the temple on account of last Ashada Friday.
Various associations were seen distributing prasadam to college students and public at several parts of the city.
Meanwhile, Suttur Mutt also distributed prasadam at its premises at the foothill of Chamundi Hill. Every year, Suttur Mutt distributes prasadam to devotees climbing the steps on last Ashada Friday. Today, the devotees savoured Mysore Pak, Laddu and Kesari Bath which was distributed by Suttur Seer Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Swamji.
JSS Mahavidyapeetha Executive Secretary Dr. C.G. Betsurmath, Secretary S.P. Manjunath and others were present.
This post was published on July 21, 2017 6:59 pm