In a vibrant display of tradition and faith, fishermen in Mangalore and Malpe gathered at Tannirubavi seashore and Malpe Vadabhandeshwar beach, respectively, to perform the sacred Samudra Puja on Monday. This ancient ritual marks the beginning of the new fishing season, and the devotees sought the blessings of the sea goddess for a safe and abundant harvest.

Tannirubavi, Mangalore

The Yehupatla Mogaveera Samyukta Sabha (Kadri) organised a grand Samudra Puja ceremony at Tannirubavi, attended by hundreds of fishermen and their families. The event commenced with Bhajan Sankeertana and Puja to Mother Shri Mahalakshmi, followed by the offering of milk and fruits to the sea under the leadership of Rajayogi Nirmalanathji Maharaj, the abbot of Kadri Kadali Mutt. Fishermen Sandeep Putran of Ullala and Hemant Kumar, President of Hogebazar Mogaveera Gram Sabha, were the chief guests. Office bearers and representatives from various organisations were also present.

Malpe Vadabhandeshwar

In Malpe, the fishermen’s association led the Samudra Puja ceremony, performed by Brahmashree Subrahmanya Tantri, the Principal Tantri of Vadabhanda Balarama Temple. The ritual began with a special puja to Lord Vadbhanda Balarama and Bobbarya, followed by a procession to the beach, where the devotees offered Ksheera, Phalapushpa, and Seeyala to the sea king. MLA Yashpal Suvarna addressed the gathering, emphasising the significance of this tradition and wishing the fishermen a safe and bountiful season. Prominent leaders, including former minister Pramod Madhwaraj and Fishermen’s Association President Dayananda Suvarna, were present on the occasion.

These ceremonies mark the beginning of the new fishing season, and the devotees’ prayers seek the blessings of the sea goddess for a safe and abundant harvest. The Samudra Puja is an integral part of the coastal communities’ traditions, reflecting their deep connection with the sea and their dependence on its bounty.