On Maha Shivratri, North Karnataka Devotees Begin Foot Pilgrimage To Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala

On March 8th, a significant religious event is set to unfold as devotees from North Karnataka gear up for the celebration of Maha Shivratri by embarking on a pilgrimage to Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala. News18 exclusively reports that a substantial number of devotees are expected to traverse the distance to pay homage to Lord Manjunatha at the revered temple.

The pilgrimage, primarily undertaken on foot, is a testament to the deep spiritual devotion of the devotees. They plan to converge at Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala, situated in Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka, to partake in the auspicious rituals of Maha Shivratri. According to reports, devotees will trek via the routes of Hassan and Chikmagalur, commencing their journey from Charmady Ghat through Mudigere.

Notably, the pilgrimage attracts a diverse array of participants, including women and young girls, all united in their desire to seek blessings on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri. An estimated 30,000 devotees are anticipated to reach the temple premises on Friday, underscoring the significance of the event.

In anticipation of the influx of pilgrims, locals have extended their hospitality by arranging accommodations for the devotees. Tents have been erected to provide shelter, along with provisions of refreshments and food to ensure the comfort of the pilgrims during their spiritual journey.

Among the devotees, Manjunatha from Ballari, Karnataka, stands out as he eagerly anticipates setting foot in the sacred precincts of Dharmasthala. Accompanied by his companions, Manjunatha embarked on the arduous journey from Ballari, aiming to cover a distance of 60 kilometres each day to reach Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala in time for the festivities.

Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala stands as a revered ancient temple nestled in the town of Dharmasthala, Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka. Dedicated to Lord Manjunatha, a manifestation of Lord Shiva, the temple also houses deities such as goddess Ammanavaru and the Jain deities Kanyakumari, Kalarkayi, Kalarahu and Kumaraswamy. Administered by the Jain family of Pergades, the temple’s legacy is enriched by the descendants of its founder.

As devotees prepare for this sacred pilgrimage, their fervent devotion shows the significance of Maha Shivratri and the spiritual connection shared with Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala.