Mangalore : Mangaloreans worshiped the tools and objects that they use to earn a livelihood on the occasion of Ayudha Pooja that comes on the ninth day of Navarathri, on Oct 23, Tuesday.

It is said that the day was followed from the ancient days, where the kings used to worship their weapons on Vijaya Dashami.

The members of the Hindu community worship tools, electrical appliances, vehicles, and instruments they use to earn their livelihood. Plantain leaves, garlands, flowers, ash gourd, and other items are used to perform the pooja during the occasion.

Later the the tools are smeared with sandalwood paste and turmeric paste, offer flowers, and worship them along with deities such as Parvathi, Saraswathi, or Lakshmi.

The purpose of the worship is to express gratefulness to the divine power for helping them earn their livelihood.

It is believed that the first legend is that of Goddess Durga who fought with the demon Mahishasura and killed him with the help of her weapons.