Durgaparameshwari Temple in Manglore | Instances of India Journey

It isn’t unusual to witness unusual sights at mystical locations in India. However, for as soon as, image this: lots of of males clad in dhoti throwing fire-lit torches at one another within the compound of a Durga Temple in Mangalore, whereas a rating of spectators watch them making an attempt to set each other ablaze!

Nicely, this isn’t a scene from a riot, however the ‘Agni Keli’ customized that includes the act of fireside combating to appease the deity. On the Kateel Durga Parameswari Temple in Mangalore, Agni Keli is one act that a number of devotees in attendance sit up for.



Kateel is a temple city positioned about 30 km away from Mangalore metropolis in Karnataka. The competition of Kateel Durga Parameswari Temple takes locations within the month of April annually for about eight consecutive days. It begins on the eve
of Mesha Sankramana Day. On the second nightfall of the fest, lots of of males hit the bottom of the temple to throw burning palm fronds at one another to apply the age-old custom.

Earlier than Agni Keli begins

Goddess Durga is the most-worshiped warrior deity. Due to this fact, it’s customary for temples throughout India to honour her by the use of adventurous rituals. On the Kateel Durga Parameswari Temple, the devotees and temple heads collect on the river
ghat for taking a holy bathtub earlier than day break. The presiding deity is bedecked fantastically in attire and jewels earlier than the Agni Keli ritual, and due worship is obtainable to Her.

Guidelines of Agni Keli

• The participant-devotees are divided into two teams dealing with each other from a distance of about 15 to 30 metres. The boys wield burning palm fronds of their fingers with the intention to hit as many contenders as potential within the different group. Every participant is permitted 5 throws, and this makes each throw depend.
• Males put on cotton lungi to keep away from catching hearth, but a few of them do get burnt slightly right here and there. Due to this fact, first assist is straight away given to the burnt individuals within the type of Kumkumarchane, a kind of holy water.
• Referees sporting white dhotis maintain a watch on the fireplace throws. They management unfair play and private assaults on any individual. All the hearth play ritual lasts for quarter-hour or so.
• As soon as the fireplace combat is over, the devotees stroll in the direction of the Durga shrine the place one other quick hearth battle ensues lasting 5 minutes.

As soon as over, the individuals take the blessings of Durga Devi.

So, that’s all in regards to the hearth fest at Kateel. If you happen to’ve had any associated experiences to share, do share with us!