Udupi DC Clarifies Paryaya Participation as Official Duty
Udupi: DC Swaroopa T.K. has issued a formal clarification regarding her participation in the recent Shiroor Paryaya Mahotsava. The DC emphasized that her involvement in the religious ceremonies was strictly within the purview of her official duties as the Administrator of the Udupi City Municipal Council and should not be interpreted as an indication of political affiliation or motivation.
In a press statement released to the media, DC Swaroopa T.K. addressed concerns and potential misinterpretations surrounding her presence at the biennial Paryaya festival held at the Udupi Sri Krishna Math. Specifically, she referenced her participation in the Pura Pravesha ceremony, which took place on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at approximately 3:00 pm. This ceremony marked the ceremonial entry of the Swamiji, a key figure in the Paryaya tradition.
The Deputy Commissioner asserted that her attendance at the Pura Pravesha, as well as subsequent events, was mandated by her administrative role within the Udupi City Municipal Council. As the Administrator, she is responsible for ensuring the smooth functioning of municipal services and facilitating events of significance to the city. The Paryaya festival, being a major cultural and religious event in Udupi, falls under this purview.
Furthermore, DC Swaroopa T.K. clarified that her official capacity also extended to her participation in the civic felicitation ceremony held in honour of the newly appointed pontiff. She also attended the Darbar programme, which followed Swamiji’s ascension to the Sarvajna Peetha, a position of spiritual and temporal authority.
The Deputy Commissioner reiterated that her presence at all these events was solely in the fulfillment of her designated official duties. She explicitly stated that her actions should not be misconstrued as politically motivated or as an endorsement of any particular political ideology. DC Swaroopa T.K. urged the public to acknowledge this clarification and to refrain from drawing unfounded conclusions regarding her participation in the Paryaya Mahotsava. The statement aims to dispel any potential ambiguity and ensure transparency regarding the Deputy Commissioner’s role in the significant Udupi religious event.