Date:03/01/2009 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2009/01/03/stories/2009010350780200.htm

Andhra Pradesh - Visakhapatnam

Dhanurmasam utsav poojas

Special Correspondent

VISAKHAPATNAM: Special programmes and pujas are on the card during the ongoing Dhanurmasa Utsav celebrations at Sri Trimurthika Venkateswara Alayam on the HB Colony Road in the city.

These include a ‘special nakshatra harati’ every hour on the occasion of Vaikuntha Ekadasi or Mukkoti Ekadasi on January 7, Neerattam Utsavam from Jan. 10 to 13, Koodarai Utsavam on Jan. 11, and Sri Goda Ammavari Kalyanam on Jan. 13 morning, according to a spokesman of the temple committee.

During the Neerattam Utsavam, abhishekam to the Goddess would be performed at 5 a.m. followed by Thomalaseva, Alankaram, Archana, Pasura Vinnapam and Mangalasasanam on all four days. The ritual signifies the importance of taking bath during the month of Margaseersham and reap spiritual fruits. Similar is the Koodarai Utsavam during which Ksheeranna prasadam is distributed.

The Dhanurmasa pujas conclude with Sri Goda Ammavari kalyanam in the morning.