Udupi Gears Up For 1 Lakh Chanting Gita In Modi’s Presence

Udupi: The temple town of Udupi is abuzz with excitement as it prepares for a day that blends devotion, tradition, and national significance. Udupi is gearing up for the historic Laksha Kantha Gita Parayana, a mass recitation of the Bhagavad Gita by one lakh devotees, on November 28 at Sri Krishna Math. On that day, one lakh voices, children, elders, monks, homemakers, farmers and professionals—will chant the Gita’s timeless verses in unison. The event has gained added significance with Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirming his participation, and he is expected to recite select shlokas during the programme.

Two major dedications will take place alongside the event: the unveiling of the Suvarna Kavacha (golden covering) for the Tirtha Mantapa in front of the Sri Krishna sanctum, and the installation of the Kanaka Kavacha (golden covering) for the sacred Kanakana Kindi.

The Laksha Kantha Gita Parayana, envisioned by Paryaya Puthige Math, is the highlight of a month-long Gitotsava that has transformed Udupi into a living classroom of the Gita. “This year we are hosting a much larger programme,” said Sri Sugunendra Tirtha Swamiji of Puthige Math. “From 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. on November 28, one lakh devotees will recite shlokas from the Bhagavad Gita and offer them to Lord Krishna. The Prime Minister will also recite a few shlokas.”

Calling the Gita India’s message to the world, the seer said, “If the Gita becomes the world’s teacher, India will truly become the Vishwaguru.”

Participation is expected to exceed one lakh as local organisations mobilise devotees.

During his earlier Paryaya term, Sri Sugunendra Tirtha Swamiji launched several Gita-centric initiatives, including the Gita Lekhana Yajna and the inauguration of Gita Mandir near Sri Krishna Matha. His fourth Paryaya has been designated the Vishwa Gita Paryaya, under which he launched major global initiatives such as the Koti Gita Lekhana Yajna, encouraging at least one crore people to handwrite all 700 shlokas of the Gita and offer them to Lord Krishna.

Another major project is the Parthasarathya Suvarna Ratha, a golden chariot commemorating the golden jubilee of the seer’s ascension. The Math has also conducted the Akhanda Udaya–Astamana Gita Parayana, a continuous recitation of the Gita for the last two years.

The Prime Minister’s visit marks a unique confluence of devotion, cultural heritage, public participation and the timeless message of the Gita.

Modi to Dedicate Suvarna Tirtha Mantapa

During his visit, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the Suvarna Tirtha Mantapa located in front of the Sri Krishna sanctum. This sacred spot hosts rituals such as Tottilu Seve and the daily Charama Seve. The silver-covered Mantapa now receives a golden kavacha, enhancing its spiritual and architectural grandeur.

Kanaka Kavacha for Kanakana Kindi

One of the highlight moments will be the dedication of the Kanaka Kavacha for the revered Kanakana Kindi—symbolic of the devotion of saint-poet Kanakadasa. The golden cover, donated by former minister Pramod Madhwaraj, was crafted in Gurupura and blessed at his residence before being brought to Udupi.

City Braces for Massive Turnout

Devotees from coastal and Malnad regions—Karwar, Shivamogga, Hassan, and Kasaragod—are expected to attend. Public entry to Sri Krishna Math will be restricted till 3 p.m. on November 28. Traffic diversions will be in place across Udupi, Malpe, and Manipal. Shops along the main route will remain shut between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., and a 5-km radius around the Math has been declared a no-drone zone. Lunch has been arranged for nearly one lakh devotees.

The Prime Minister will arrive at Mangaluru airport and reach Udupi by helicopter via the Adi Udupi helipad. A large pandal has been erected for his address.

Later Celebrations

The celebrations will continue with a Gita Mahayaga on November 29, offering all 700 shlokas to Lord Krishna, followed by a Sant Sangama on November 30, for which Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been invited.

Swamiji recalled Modi’s previous visit to Udupi as Gujarat Chief Minister and said the Math is delighted to welcome him again as the Prime Minister of India.