JOURNALISTS ASSAULTED AT A TEMPLE

Madikeri February 23, 2009

A group of journalists were assaulted by temple staff and public at Bhagandeshwara temple at Bhagamandala yesterday.

Two journalists Basavaraj Ayatti from Savadatti and Gurubasannavar from Ramadurga received severe injuries as a clash broke between journalists and the temple staff. Around three hundred journalists were waiting in the queue for lunch in the temple, yesterday being Shivaratri. The duo was beaten as they questioned about the delay in distribution of food.

The injured were given first aid at the district hospital Madikeri and a complaint was lodged with the madikeri police.

The group of journalists was visiting Talacauvery and Bhagamandala. The Kodagu district journalists association had organized a free visit to the pilgrim centers and the local Deputy Commissioner had announced that special meals would be organized for journalists at Bhagamandala temple. But no proper arrangements were made.

The journalists were in Kodagu to attend the two day state level conference of Karnataka working journalists association. The valedictory function was held the previous day and this group stood back to visit the holy places.

Deputy Commissioner Baladevakrishna and Superintendent of Police Suresh conducted an enquiry today and took statements from the temple authorities. SP Suresh told this correspondent that suitable action would be initiated.

SHIVARATRI OBSERVED WITH GAIETY

Kodagu observed Shivaratri with Spiritual fervor. Akanda Bhajans and cultural programmes were held at Bhagamandala Bhagandeshwara temple and Omkareshwara temple at Madikeri.

Deputy Speaker K.G.Bopaiah inaugurated the function followed by cultural programmes at Bhagamandala. Zilla Panchayath president Deergakeshi Shivanna was also present.

Men, women and children from parane baivadu walked to the temple on bare foot and took darshan of bhagandeshwara. Later they proceeded to talacauvery on foot. “Baivadu” is similar to the system followed by Shabarimala devotees. This group wishes to popularize the Baivadu tradition in kodagu to bring awareness about the importance of river Cauvery.

Thousands of devotees took darshan of Shivalingam at Onkareshwara temple.