Karnataka - Mangalore   

Preparations on for Chilimbi festival

Special Correspondent

MANGALORE: The Malaraya Dhoomavati Daiva Sthana at Chilimbi is getting ready for the annual three-day `Nemothsava' that starts on Friday.

The history of this shrine of the spirits of Malaraya and Dhoomavati

dates back to the 14th century. It has been attracting devotees from all religions since then.

Daiva (spirit) is usually worshiped only by the backward castes. But "Uyyale" of Malaraya Dhoomavati Daiva is also seen in some Brahmin families in Mangalore.

A Brahmin spinster worshipped as "Brandhi" by the backward castes is considered a spirit in the district. During the Nemothsava, Daiva Sthana trustees give the `prasadam' first to the descendants of "Brandhi."

Nemothsava will feature Bhoota Kola and Koli Katta. Special poojas will be performed for "bhootas" of Malaraya namely Panjurli, Arabbi, and Vaidyanatha, and also from other "ganas." B.G. Suvarna, honorary president of the "Bhoota Sthana," said a hall built at a cost of Rs. 18 lakh would be dedicated to the "Daiva Sthana." It will be inaugurated on Friday by B. Janardhana Poojary, Rajya Sabha MP.

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