Udupi – The Elur Mogaveera Mahasabha, in association with Kannangaru Mogaveera Sabha, organised a grand Samudra Pooja on Saturday morning at the Amasekari seashore in Hejamady. The event brought together hundreds of fishermen and their families to seek blessings for a safe and prosperous fishing season.
The day began with collective prayers at the historic Hejamady Veera Maruti Temple. From there, devotees carried milk and coconut flowers in a vibrant bhajan procession to the seashore. The air resonated with devotional singing as participants made their way to the coast.
Upon reaching Amasekari beach, mass prayers were performed, offering gratitude to the sea – revered as a life-giving mother by the fishing community. Traditional offerings were ceremonially released into the waves, symbolising respect for the ocean and invoking its protection.
Speaking to the media, S. Diwakar Hejamady, President of the Elur Mogaveera Mahasabha, highlighted the significance of the ritual. “For generations, we have been worshipping the sea here at Amasi Kere. It is our way of thanking the sea for sustaining us and praying for safety from mishaps,” he said. “We hope this year brings abundant catches and calm waters.”
The event was attended by Vice President Balakrishna Suvarna, Secretary Lalit Kumar, Treasurer Shreyas Salyan, 16 Patla Mogaveera Mahasabha President Ravi S. Kunder, and several community leaders. The gathering reaffirmed the deep cultural and spiritual bond between the fishermen and the sea.