Udupi: ‘Shoba Yatre’ procession was held as a precursor to the dedication ceremony of the ‘Suvarna Gopura’ on Saturday, June 1.

The colourful procession which was held prior to the dedication ceremony of the ‘Suvarna Gopura’ of the sanctum sanctorum of the 800-year-old Sri Krishna Math was witnessed by thousands of people.

The programme was inaugurated by Sri Vishwesha Theertha Swamiji of Pejawar Math by lighting the lamp. Sathyatma Theerta Swamiji of Uttaradi Math, Sri Vidhyadeesha Theertha Swamiji, Paryaya Palimar Math, MP Shobha Karandlaje, MLA K Raghupati Bhat, Nadoja Dr G Shankar of G Shankar Family Trust, former president of the Kannada Sahitya Parishad Harikrishna Punaroor, businessmen Purushottam Shetty, Manohar Shetty, proprietor of Sri Sairadha Developers, Yashpal Suvarna, president, Fish Marketing Federation, Buvanendra Kediyoor, owner, Hotel Kediyoor, Mattaru Ratnakar Hegde and others were present.

Addressing the gathering Pejawar seer said, “This is a historical moment. God does not want gold or anything, devotion is important for him. God is always ‘santhrupta’ (fulfilled). He has no desire of luxuries. This programme is organised for the welfare of all. Let India also become a ‘Golden Nation’.”

The grand procession began from Jodukatte, passed through Old Taluk Office Road, Court Road, Old Diana Circle, Kavi Muddana Road, Service Bus Stand, City Bus Stand, Kalsank, Rajangana parking space, Vidyodaya School and ended at the Car Street.

The procession consisted of several special attractions including Sri Krishna, Arjuna and Bheema of ‘Mahabharata’ serial on Star Plus TV channel. Actors Savi Takoor, Deeraj Rai and Sharath Gore playing the roles took part in the procession in their costumes and were taken out sitting in a chariot of Geetopadhyaya.