Golden Paduka Puja takes centre stage at Annabrahma Chaturmasya in Gokarna
Karwar: A traditional Swarna Paduka Puja performed by members of the Maratha community was among the highlights of the ongoing Annabrahma Chaturmasya religious gathering at Gokarna in Karnataka.
The puja was held at the surroundings of Ashoka’s Moola Math, where Sri Raghaveshwara Bharati Mahaswamiji also delivered a discourse as part of the ‘Annam Brahma’ series on Friday.
Speaking on the importance of food, the seer said that despite differences in form, quality and taste, food has a common purpose — providing nourishment and happiness to living beings.
He explained that food plays a vital role in maintaining longevity, strength, complexion, memory, vitality and physical beauty. Hunger, he said, can affect intellectual performance, while appropriate food helps restore mental sharpness.
Referring to Ayurveda, the Swamiji explained the significance of Ojas, described as the vital essence formed through the nourishment of the body’s seven fundamental elements. A balanced diet and healthy lifestyle are essential to preserving Ojas, he said.
Members of the Maratha community, who have traditionally maintained a close devotional association with Sri Ramachandrapura Math, performed the Swarna Paduka Puja.
Blessing the devotees after accepting the puja, Sri Raghaveshwara Bharati Mahaswamiji said frequent interaction between the Guru Peetha and disciples strengthens the Guru-Shishya tradition. He blessed the community and expressed hope that its difficulties and losses would be overcome through divine and Guru lineage blessings.
Maratha Samaj district president Manjunath Thimma Marathi, Kumta taluk president Purushottam Shedigadde and several community leaders and devotees participated in the programme.
Dr Rajarama Madikeri’s family also offered alms during the religious gathering.
