Daiva ritual linked to Rishab Shetty’s vow conducted as per tradition, shrine committee clarifies

Daiva ritual linked to Rishab Shetty’s vow conducted as per tradition, shrine committee clarifies

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, December 13, 2025: The daiva néma and related rituals performed following actor Rishab Shetty’s vow were carried out strictly in accordance with the long-established customs and traditions of the shrine, the administration committee of Barebailu Sri Jarandaya Banta Daivasthana and Sri Varahi Panjurli Daivasthana clarified on Friday.

Addressing a press conference, temple committee honorary president Ravi Prasanna said the enne boolya ritual has been practised at the shrine for several years and was conducted as per tradition. He questioned the propriety of judging or analysing the state of daiva possession without a proper understanding of the shrine’s customs.

He said Rishab Shetty had made a vow a few months ago to offer a néma, for which permission was sought from the daiva and subsequently granted. Following this, the ritual was performed. During the enne boolya ritual, the daiva did not lie in anyone’s lap but sat on the ground holding the hands of the service bearers, a practice that, he said, was not new.

Ravi Prasanna further stated that those spreading misinformation about the shrine had earlier targeted other religious fields as well. He said comments made without knowledge of the shrine’s customs had hurt the faith followed by devotees for generations.

He added that complaints have been lodged with the Police Commissioner and the Kadri police station against those spreading false information, and legal action will be initiated against individuals who posted abusive comments.

Temple committee vice-president Akshith Suvarna, general secretary Charan, and senior member Krishna Bhat were present at the press conference. Earlier, villagers offered a collective prayer in front of the Jarandaya Banta daiva shrine.

Daiva nartaka Mukesh said that for him, the daiva itself was his media, court and authority. He added that the ritual was performed as taught by elders and that all answers would come from the daiva.