Laksha Deepotsava

The auspicious temple of Dharmasthala organizes the Laksha Deepotsava festival for Lord Manjunatha. The traditional Grand Festival of Lights is held over the last five days of the month of Kartika. The festivities commence when the Lord's statue is carried twice around the temple's sanctum sanctorum and four times around the temple once again in procession. The Kshetrapaala pooje is performed subsequently, before the idol is taken on a circuit nine times around the temple grounds, accompanied by joyous music and revelry. A silver chariot carries the Lord's idol to Gowrimaaru Katte, where the Ashtavadhaana pooje is performed. Following the rituals, it is brought to the temple with great zeal.Several programmes pertaining to art, music, and cultural activities are also held throughout the five-day celebration. Sarva Dharma and Sahitya Sammelanas are held in conjunction with the Festival. On the fourth day of Lakshadeepotsava, a seminar on global religions is held, and on the fifth day, a seminar on fine arts and literature is organised. Music, traditional dances, Hari Kathas, and bhajans are also promoted through entertainment programmes. The festival is attended by lakhs of devotees who have travelled to Dharmasthala from all around the state.Location: DharmasthalaDate: November – December (Karthik Maas)