Udupi: The temple town of Udupi came alive with devotion, tradition and festivity as thousands of devotees gathered along Car Street on Saturday to witness the grand Sri Krishna Leelotsava–Vitla Pindi celebrations.
The festivities began at 3 pm with the idol of Lord Krishna taken out in a grand procession on a golden chariot, accompanied by other deities. The procession was formally flagged off by Sri Vedavardhana Theertha Swamiji of Paryaya Shiroor Math amid traditional performances and devotional fervour.
Gopalas recreate Krishna’s playful pastimes
One of the major attractions of the celebrations was the participation of young men dressed as gopalas, or cowherds. They delighted the crowds by breaking earthen pots filled with curd, recreating the playful childhood episodes associated with Lord Krishna.
The colourful Kadagolu Krishna procession added further vibrancy to the celebrations. Krishna idols mounted on decorated sticks were carried through the streets, drawing the attention of devotees and visitors.
The historic Rathabeedi was transformed into a lively carnival celebrating Udupi’s rich cultural and religious traditions. Folk dances, traditional performances and dramatic impersonations entertained the gathering throughout the festivities.
Hulivesha and tableaux draw crowds
Energetic Hulivesha, or tiger dance, performances were among the biggest attractions of the day. Numerous tiger dance troupes moved through the streets, accompanied by tableau groups and performers dressed as cartoon characters and Rakkasas.
The rhythmic beats, colourful costumes and enthusiastic participation created a festive atmosphere across Car Street. A tiger dance competition was also organised as part of the celebrations, providing an opportunity for participating troupes to showcase their performances.
A wrestling competition was another highlight of the event, attracting spectators and adding to the traditional character of the festivities.
Anna Santarpane serves thousands
The Vitla Pindi Mahotsava also carried a strong message of community participation through Anna Santarpane, or mass feeding.
Beginning at 10 am, the programme saw thousands of devotees receiving prasadam. Traditional sweet milk payasam was served to the public, reflecting the festival’s emphasis on sharing, hospitality and togetherness.
The mass feeding programme brought devotees from different sections of society together and formed an important part of the celebrations.
Jalastambhana marks spiritual conclusion
The festivities concluded with Jalastambhana, the symbolic immersion of the clay idol of Lord Krishna.
The ritual marked the spiritual culmination of the Sri Krishna Janmashtami celebrations. It symbolised the return of the deity to the divine realm and brought the vibrant festivities to a solemn and devotional close.
The grand celebrations once again highlighted Udupi’s deep-rooted connection with Lord Krishna, while bringing together religious traditions, folk culture and community participation in a colourful public celebration.