The Girija Kalyana Mahotsava of Sri Nanjundeshwara Swamy and Goddess Parvati was celebrated with deep devotion and magnificence at the renowned Nanjundeshwara Temple in Nanjangud, known as Dakshina Kashi.
As part of the festivities, the vibrant Kashi Yatra and Dhara Mahotsava were organized in elaborate fashion. The main wedding ceremony was held in the temple’s Vasantha Mantapa between 6:20 and 7:00 pm, featuring numerous sacred rituals led by chief priest J. Nagachandra Dixit.
Throughout the auspicious Ashadha month, priests performed elaborate ceremonies for the idols of Srikanteshwara and Parvati. Early in the day, Maha Ganapati Puja was offered for the smooth conduct of the event, followed by prayers to the presiding deity. Ganga Puja took place at the Kapila bathing ghat using ritual vessels and mirrors, culminating in a ceremonial bath.
In the evening, a series of rites including Naandi Graha Yajna, Navagraha Homa, and Purasana were conducted. The Kashi Yatra procession, with the Utsavamurthy of Srikanteshwara Swamy, circumambulated the temple amid musical performances by traditional ensembles.
Artists presented Pancha Veeragase, Nandi Dhwaja, Karadi Mela, and Garudi Gombe dances, enthralling the crowds. Following the procession, the deity was adorned with precious ornaments gifted by the Mysore Wodeyars and Tipu Sultan.
The sacred Kalyana rituals such as Kanya Daana, Saptapadi, and Arundhati Puja marked the grand finale, witnessed by thousands of devotees celebrating faith and heritage.