‘Salaam Mangalarati’ is an age old tradition, says Kollur temple priest

Udupi: The priest of Kollur temple, K V Sridhara Adiga on Sunday said that Salaam Mangalarathi is an age-old tradition followed by the temple and is also a significant ritual.

Sridhara Adiga said, “Pradosha Pooja is held in morning and afternoon in the temple as there is a belief that all gods and goddesses will be present during the Pradosha Kaala. According to Karuna Karunike, Tipu Sultan had taken part  in the pooja and offered the Salaam. Although there are no officials records, the ritual has its own significance.”

“The Pradosha pooja is held everyday for ages and prayer is offered for the well-being of our Nation,” he added.

Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) divisional secretary Sharan Pumpwell had urged the Kollur Mookambika temple administration to remove the ‘Salaam Mangalarathi’ ritual performed in the name of Tipu Sultan.

VHP said that Tipu Sultan was a cruel leader and has killed thousands of Hindus. It is a shame that a Mangalarati is being offered to Devi Mookambika in his name. Also, Salaam means slavery, and is wrong to use the word in the temple.