Ugadhi Celebrations at MTS
Devotees at Meenakshi temple listening intently to the panchangam reading at Meenakshi temple Ughadi puja.
By M.K. Sriram
PEARLAND: Ughadi, the New Year day for Telugus, Kannadigas and Maharashtrians was celebrated with great festivity and joy at the Sri Meenakshi Temple on Monday, March 31.
Lord Venkateshwara in all his splendor at Meenakshi temple on Ughadi day.
The name of the festival ‘Ugadhi’ is derived from two words ‘Yuga’ and ‘Aadi’. ‘Yuga Aadi’ means ‘beginning of a new age’. It is believed that Lord Brahma, the creator started his work of creation on this auspicious day. This day coincides with the onset of spring and symbolically marks the beginning of new life. This current year called “Jaya”, meaning victory, gives hope to all.
The religious ceremony started with special abhishekam to Lord Venkateshwara with the accompaniment of Vedic chanting by the priests. It is most auspicious to witness and worship the Lord on this day, so many devotees had gathered seeking His blessings. A very important feature of this event is the ‘panchanga shravanam’ or listening to the yearly calendar. The devotees listened in rapt attention as the temple priest read out the predictions for each of the twelve “rasis” as is done traditionally at temples in India. The belief is that hearing this reading of the Panchangam in the presence of Lord Vishnu annuls any ill effects of the planets and brings peace, happiness and prosperity.
Lord Venkateswara looked resplendent in all his glory with special adornments and abharanams as the priests did the archana and final arathi. This was followed by prasadam distribution and a simple but sumptuous dinner. For more than 200 devotees who attended, this was the most unforgettable event and an auspicious beginning of the Lunar New Year.