Fair, Festivals & Activities in Mantralayam

Major festivals in mantralayam 

Sri Raghavendra Aradhana Mahotsav is annually held every year with gaiety and fervor. Though Mantralyam is visited by lakhs of devotees all the year round but the maximum attention it draws on the ``Aradhana Mahotsav’’ days. During the Aradhana celebrations of two years back around 5 lakhs devotees have participated. This celebration is generally held during August- September every year and lasts for seven days. 

There are many activities held to mark Aradhana celebrations. One of them is the Car (chariot) festival. With teeming devotees dancing and singing as if in a trance, the scene at this place becomes truly ecstatic. People participating in colorful procession can be seen wearing mythological costumes and playing musical instruments. The whole atmosphere at Mantralayam becomes joyous with Harikathas, dance and music programs.

`Panchamrutha Abhisheka` is undertaken on a massive scale, with milk, curds, honey, sugar, and fruits poured on the ‘Brindavana’. Uttararadhana ritual consists of anointing the holy Brindhavan with milk, honey, and other condiments. Amidst chanting of Vedic mantra the Peethadhiopati of Rayaru Matha performs “Harathi” (invocation). 

Another important part of the seven day long ceremonies is the address by the Pontiff of the Matha. Last year late Sri Sushameendra Teertha’s address touched everyone when he stressed that of all the charities, feeding the hungry is the noblest.

So if you want to be part of the Aradhana celebrations it is very important to plan your travel meticulously and book your railway tickets and accommodation in advance. 

Madhwanavami: Magha (February): 

Madhwa Navami marks the day of Sri Madhwacharya`s entry into "Badarikashramam”.

He was a great proponent of the Dwaita system of Philosophy. The festival is celebrated with much religious fervor. Held during the month of February, the day is marked by processions, devotional singing, and Annadana.