Bhatkal: The 16th annual padayatra (foot pilgrimage) to the renowned Murdeshwar Shiva Temple will be organised on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri, with more than 10,000 devotees expected to participate this year.
Addressing a press conference at the Ranjan Indane Gas Agency office in Bhatkal, agency owner Shivani Shantaram appealed to devotees to participate in large numbers and make the religious event a success.
She said the padayatra was initiated 15 years ago with only a few devotees and has since grown into a major annual spiritual event. Organised every year on Maha Shivaratri, the procession begins at Choleswar Temple in Bhatkal and proceeds to the Murdeshwar Temple for darshan.
This year, the padayatra will commence at 4:00 am on February 15 from Choleswar Temple. As in previous years, thousands of devotees — including women and children — are expected to participate. Devotees from Byndoor, Shirur and Honnavar will also join the pilgrimage, and organisers estimate that over 10,000 devotees from various places will take part.
All necessary precautionary measures are being taken to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the event. The police and health departments, along with various organisations, will extend full cooperation.
The ‘Kriyashila Geleyara Balaga’ group will arrange lemon juice for the padayatris. As in previous years, food packets, fruits and drinking water will be distributed to participants. Upon reaching Murdeshwar, special arrangements have been made by the temple authorities to facilitate quick darshan of Lord Shiva, along with breakfast for devotees.
Bus arrangements have been made for the return journey to Bhatkal after darshan. Women participants availing of the bus facility are required to carry their Aadhaar cards.
Shivani Shantaram further stated that the district in-charge minister has assured full support for the successful conduct of the padayatra.
Among those present at the press conference were Shantaram Bhatkal, Kumar Naik and Kiran Chandavarkar, among others.