The Kalasotsav of Shri Devi Sateri Shantadurga Temple commenced with great enthusiasm in Virdi on Tuesday, March 10, drawing large participation from villagers and devotees.
The festival forms part of the traditional Shigmo celebrations in the village and will continue for 13 days. As per tradition, on the ninth day of Holi during the Shimgotsav festivities, the sacred kals of the goddess is taken in procession to the homes of devotees across the village.
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The ritual involves visiting all households over a period of four days. The special highlight of the celebrations — the Homkund festival — will be held on March 13.
On Tuesday evening, a large number of residents from Virdi gathered at the Shri Dev Mahadev Temple for the ceremonial start of the Kalasotsav. After the recitation of the goddess’s kals, the village modpurush, Vitthal Kamat, carried it on his head and led the traditional procession.
Following the ritual, the kals first visited the local deities and then proceeded to the houses of respected members of the village. As per long-standing custom, the procession will continue over the next few days, visiting the homes of devotees and blessing the community during the festive period.
