Fishing to commence August 11, after fishing holiday - Samudra Pooja performed

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangalore, Aug 11, 2014:   Fishermen offer prayers to the Sea God, on the last day of the 60 day fishing holidays which falls on a full moon day.  The fishermen will venture into sea today August 11.  Seeking blessings of Sea God for better catch and safety at sea, a large number of fishermen, women and children offered Samudra Pooja (prayers to Sea God) at Thannirbhavi in Mangalore on August 10.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fishermen consider the day as auspicious and  most of them offer prayers, to protect their family members from all evil forces when they venture into sea for fishing in the new season.  August 10,  began with a Shoba Yatre from Karnal Garden Sri Rama Bhajana Mandira, passing  via Bokkapattana Brahma Babbarya Banta Daivastana, Boloor Ashwatha Katte Nagabrahma Sthana, Boloor Grama Chavadi before arriving on the banks of river Gurpura.

After crossing the river in boats, the fishermen waiting on the other end of the river received them and took the seer in a colourful procession to the beach at Thannirbavi where prayers were offered amidst bhajans. The seer offered the pooja, first by offering milk, fruits, tender coconuts, flowers and more.

  A large number of fishermen taking part in the rituals too threw coconuts in to the sea.   After offering pooja to the Sea, prayers were offered at a pendal set up for the purpose. The programme ended with distribution of prasadam.  The heavy rain  did not dampen the devotion of the  fisherfolk.  The programme was organised by Mangalooru Yelu Patna Mogaveera Samyuktha Sabha comprising Boloor, Bokkapatna, Kudroli, Hoige Bazaar, Bolar, Jeppu, Neereshwalya and Padu Hoige Mogaveera grama sabhas.

Speaking after offering pooja, Suvarna Kadali Mutt Head Nareshnathaji wished for better catches for fishermen during the season.  Fisherman R C Bolara said, “we need to ensure that fish population does not decline. Fishermen should develop a deeper feeling of sacredness to the sea.” “It is the sea alone that protects us during sudden unforeseen crisis while fishing. It is only sea that we behold when fishing. We offer prayers to Sea God to protect us during our ventures in sea,” he said. There was a solemn festive devotion  prevailing.