Udupi : The countdown started for the historic Paryaya celebrations in Udupi. Shri Vishwesha Theertha Swamiji, a senior seer is ascending the Peetha for a record of fifth time, the presence of about 42 very important personalities from all over India will create a record on January 18.

The important dignitaries expected to attend the event include Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, N Chandrababu Naidu (CM of Andhra Pradesh), K Chandrashekhar Rao (CM of Telangana) and senior leader of BJP Lal Krishna Advani are a few among others.

The presence of dignitaries pose a security problem for police authorities, however, arrangements are made for tight security.

More than 1,300 police personnel are deployed. Apart from Udupi, police from DK, Uttara Kannada and Chikkamagalur district are also on duty. The security arrangement consists of SP-2, DY.SP-5, CPI-16, PSI-45, ASI-110, HC/PC-780, Lady police-96, Homeguards-284, six bus KSRP battalion and six bus DAR battalion. Vehicle parking is arranged at 22 places.

Check post is installed at 6 places for vehicle checking round the clock. CCTV is installed at 75 sensitive places and binocular watch tower at 10 places as well as sky watch from high rise buildings.

On 17 and 18 nearly 42 dignitaries with Z and Z+ security will arrive and watch the procession. It may be decided to close vehicle movement within city limits for one day depending on circumstances.

Nearly 10,000 to 15,000 devotees have been part of Annaprasadam every day in the temple. Udupi municipality council had made all arrangements to welcome the devotees for Paryaya celebrations. Shopping malls, apartments and streets are decorated with colourful lights. The city looks beautiful, especially at night with all the glittering lights.

Around 300 workers are engaged in cleaning operation and more than thousand people are working as volunteers for the programme.

Welcome arches have been installed at the entrance of the city to accord cordial welcome to tourists and devotees alike.

As many as 20-25 artistes who have come from Mysuru, Bengaluru, Chennai are working day in and day out designing the Mantapa. A huge Mantapa in North Indian style called ‘Rajangana Mantapa’ has been designed in 85-90 feet width and length.

A new darbar has been built at New Car Street, just behind the Yatri Nivas. The darbar is designed as an old traditional home under the guidance of Mohan Alva. Nearly 10,000-15,000 people can be accommodated at once in this darbar.

Three platforms have been marked for a variety of cultural programmes which have been sponsored by private entrepreneurs.

A 60-member Chende team has been invited from Kerala. Attractive fireworks, orchestras, dance shows and other programmes have been arranged.