Mangaluru: “No money has been taken from the government for the celebration of Mangaluru Dasara. We don’t accept it, even if the government gives it,” said former union minister Janardhana Poojary.

Addressing the press reporters at Kudroli Gokarnanatheshwara temple hall on Saturday, he said that from past 25 years the temple authorities are celebrating the Mangaluru Dasara with the help of public.

“For the success of the Mangaluru Dasara, participation of the public is important and it is proven. We do not want any help from the government,” he said.

Further explaining about the Mangaluru Dasara celebrations he said that the rituals will begin from October 1 morning 11.15 am at Gokarnanatha temple. On October 9 and 10 special ritual ‘Chandika Homa’ has been organised. On October 10th also special rituals will be performed and on October 11 at evening 4, a grand ‘Mangaluru Dasara procession’ will begin from the temple premises.

“The procession will move via ladyhill, Lalbhag, Ballalbhag, Lodialbail, Hampankatte, University College, Ganapathi High School, Car Street and Chitra alkies Alake. Finally it will reach temple premises in the morning,” he added.

President of the temple managing committee H S Sai Ram, vice president Raghavendra Kulur, Treasurer Padmaraj R, Ravishankar Mijar, Harikrishna Bantwal, K Mahesh Chandra, Dr Anusuya B T Salian, D D Kattemar, Leelaksha Karkera and others were present.