Report by Michael Rodrigues
Pics by Janardhan Kodavoor and DPK
Team Mangalorean Udupi

Udupi: The ''Tapta Mudra Dharana'' ritual was held in the Shri Krishna temple here on Saturday, June 30.

Shri Vishwavallbha Teertha Swamiji of Paryaya Sode Math stamped the images of “shankha” (conch) and “chakra” (wheel) on the chest and arms of the devotees.

Earlier, the seals of “shankha” and “chakra” were heated during the “Sudarshana Homa” conducted in the temple. Devotees formed long queues in front of the temple and waited for their turn to participate in the ritual.

The “chakra” is stamped on the right arm, while the “shanka” is stamped on the left arm. The symbols are stamped on women as well.

Normally the seals are stamped on the stomach of little girl children, and boys who have not undergone the thread ceremony. Swamijis of all Maths performed “Tapta Mudra Dharana” ritual.

Religious heads from various parts of the state came to the temple town to take part in the ceremony. The ceremony is held on the day of “Prathama Ekadashi” or “Sayani Ekadashi.”  It is believed that mudra dharana helps the persons with antibodies.