Udupi: In a historic move, Paryaya Sri Puthige Math will celebrate Sri Krishna Janmashtami with 48 days of festivities from August 1 to September 17, marking the longest-ever celebration of the Lord’s birth in the region.

At a press meet held at Geetha Mandira, Sri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji, the paryaya peetadhipathi of Puthige Math, announced the extended schedule, made possible due to the rare occurrence of two Janmashtami dates—Chaandra Janmashtami on August 15 and Saura Janmashtami on September 14, followed by Sri Krishna Leelotsava on September 15.

Highlights of the 48-Day Celebration:

  • Koti Krishna Nama Japa Yajna

  • Opportunities for devotees to offer symbolic gifts to Lord Krishna like flutes, silver cradles, anklets, and conch shells

  • Laddu Utsava, Sasyamela, and Dhanya Mela

  • Inauguration of a newly constructed auditorium

  • Daily Kolalu Mandalotsava (Flute Fest) at Surya School from 5–7 pm

  • Bhajans, pravachanas, Gita parayana, music, and dance programs

    • The Sri Krishna Janmashtami Mandalotsava will begin on July 25 at 4:30 pm at Rajangana, graced by:

    • Sri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji (Puthige Math)

  • Sri Vishwapriya Theertha Swamiji (Admaru Math)

  • Sri Sushreendra Theertha Swamiji (junior pontiff)

  • Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot (to inaugurate the celebrations)

    • Other dignitaries include Udupi minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar, MLA Yashpal Suvarna, MLA Suresh Shetty Gurme, MAHE Pro-Chancellor Dr. H.S. Ballal, and industrialists from across Karnataka.

     Post-Mandalotsava Celebrations:

    • Geetotsava: November 8 – December 2

  • Laksha Kantha Gita Parayana: November 30

  • Parthasarathi Suvarna Ratha Samarpanotsava: December 27

  • Paryaya Mangalotsava: January 8–17, 2026

    • Sri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji urged devotees to attend and be blessed during this spiritually rich, culturally vibrant series of events.