Annual Feast of Harihar Basilica Begins with Flag Hoisting Ceremony
Harihar, Karnataka: The Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Health, Harihar, witnessed a massive gathering of pilgrims on Saturday as its nine-day annual feast began with a solemn flag-hoisting ceremony.
Msgr. Stany D’Souza blessed the newly renovated Grotto of Our Lady of Health. Following the blessing, Very Rev. Msgr. Stany D’Souza, Delegate of the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Shimoga, inaugurated the festivities by hoisting the feast flag. He was welcomed by Basilica Rector Very Rev. Fr. George K. A. with a bouquet. Parish Council Secretary Gnanaprakash served as the master of ceremonies and welcomed the pilgrims.
Basilica Rector Very Rev. Fr. George K. A. led the novena prayers, followed by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist by Msgr. Stany D’Souza. In his homily on the theme, “Mary – Mother of the Marginalized,” Msgr. Stany reflected on how the Blessed Mother brings solace to refugees, the bereaved and widows. Drawing from Matthew 25, he emphasised the Christian calling to serve the poor and marginalised. The inaugural Holy Eucharist was concelebrated by 20 priests.
Thousands of devotees from across Karnataka and neighbouring states thronged the Basilica, many dressed in saffron as a mark of faith and tradition. The heavy influx of pilgrims led to traffic congestion in several parts of Harihar, reflecting the deep devotion to Harihar Matha.
Following the Eucharist, Fr. Santhosh Almeida led Eucharistic Adoration, while Fr. Franklin D’Souza conducted healing prayers, concluding with solemn Benediction. Priests blessed the faithful by laying hands on them and praying for their healing and consolation. The day’s celebrations concluded with Anna Santharpane, the traditional community meal shared by pilgrims.
From the day of the flag hoisting until September 7, novena Masses and preaching by different priests will be held daily. The celebrations will culminate on September 8, the feast day marking the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, with solemn Eucharistic liturgies.
Prayers for Peace
Special prayers were offered for global peace, particularly for war-torn nations and their leaders, as well as for all those gathered in adoration. The prayers reaffirmed the Basilica’s role as a centre of faith and intercession.
One of the largest Marian pilgrimages in Karnataka, the annual feast will continue with novenas, daily Eucharistic celebrations and devotional programmes until the grand finale.
A live broadcast of the celebrations was also made available for devotees unable to attend in person.
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