Ayudha Puja celebrations across Karnataka

Mysore/Mangaluru: Ayudha Puja celebrated across southern states of India is actually known as ‘Astra Pooja’ (Worship of implements) where weapons are sharpened. In the state of Karnataka the celebration is meant Killing demon King Mahishasura by goddess Chamundeshwari.

The tradition of the festival traced to erstwhile Vijayanagara Empire continues even now. On October 10, Scion Yaduveer performed the Puja in the palace premises. Pramoda devi and wife Trishika witnessed the event from the gallery.

The tools of vocation, machinery, musical instruments are cleaned before the Puja. Then they are smeared with turmeric and sandal wood paste and vermillion applied.

The vehicles and animals are bedecked with flowers. Venerated vehicles plying on roads are a common feature of Ayudha puja in southern states of Karnataka, Kerala and Tamilnadu. One can find vehicles blessed by priests in front of churches during this period of the year. Even Muslim brethren venerate vehicles owned by them and join the celebrations.

For our viewers worldwide, here are few clicks of Ayudha Puja celebrations from different part of the state.