SIVAGIRI: Three day annual Sivagiri pilgrimage began on Sunday. Pilgrims are pouring in from different parts of the state. Special poojas at Santhihavanam and recitation of Sri Narayana Guru’s works marked the beginning of 86th annual Sivagiri pilgrimage.

Sri Narayana Dharma Sangham Trust President Swami Vishudhananda hoisted ‘Dharma Flag’ at 7.30 a.m. ‘Dharma Flag’ song ‘Uyaruka Vidaruka’ complemented the hoisting ceremony. Dharma Sagham Trust General Secretary Swami Sandrananda, Treasurer Swami Saradananda, Pilgrimage Committee Secretary Swami Vishalananda, Swami Ameyananda, Swami Sivaswaroopananda, Swami Sadroopananda, Swami Guruprasad, Swami Bodhitheerthananda and Swami Guruprakasham were present. Governor Justice P. Sadashivam inaugurated the function.

‘Padayatras’ from several SNDP Unions of different states will visit Sivagiri. People related Sree Naraya organizations have already taken part of pilgrimage. The Mahasamadhi witnessed massive footfalls yesterday following the Mahayati Pooja.

Thousands participated in Maha Annadanam (Grand Food Offering) organized by Sivagiri Mutt and SNDP Yogam. ‘Annadana Pavilion’ was inaugurated by SNDP General Secretary Vellappally Nateshan.

Procession with ‘Gurudeva Rickshaw’-the main event of Sivagiri pilgrimage will start today morning from Mahasamadhi. The procession will go through Varkala ground, Railway Station and premises and return to Mahasamadhi. Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala will inaugurate Pilgrimage convention at 10 a.m.