Yadugiri Yatiraja Jeeyar Swamiji in city

Mysore/Mysuru: Stressing the importance of dharma, Srimad Yadugiri Yatiraja Jeeyar Swamiji of Sri Yatiraja Mutt said that practicing righteousness is the duty of every individual and that a society devoid of dharma can never attain true welfare.

He was delivering his blessings during the Maha Kumbhabhisheka and associated rituals held at the historic Sri Prasanna Venkataramana Temple in Hale Bandikeri, Mysuru.

The temple, which has a history of around 250 years and is popularly known as Sakshi Venkataramana Temple, was established by Mummadi Sri Krishnaraja Wadiyar. It is also regarded as the first Sri Srinivasa temple in Mysuru.

The ceremonies included Dwararchane, Chatushtana Archane, Maha Poornahuti and Maha Samprokshana. The religious rituals, which began on Friday evening, concluded on Sunday, with cultural programmes adding colour and vibrancy to the occasion.

Notably, the temple has undergone renovation for the first time in the last 80 years and the restoration works were completed in a record 35 days.

“The renovation of this temple has transformed Hale Bandikeri into a renewed locality. Even during our earlier days, we used to visit this temple. It serves as a divine protector for all devotees in this region,” said the Swamiji.

He further noted that the temple’s Rajagopura and Vimana Gopura are uniquely constructed, adding that renovation of temples reflects the overall health of society.

“Devotees believe the presiding deity here as Sakshi Venkataramana. This reflects the inseparable bond between the temple and its devotees. For centuries, this temple has been a source of protection and solace for the people of Mysuru,” he said.

“Every temple is a reflection of society, and its growth contributes to the welfare of the community,” he added in his blessings.

MP Yaduveer Wadiyar, City BJP President L. Nagendra, Renovation Committee President S. Ramaswamy, Srinivasa Iyengar and family members, among others, were present on the occasion.