Continuing with social reform measures, the Gokarnanatha temple has called widows to come forward and perform Lakshmi pooja at the temple on the occasion of Deepavali on October 23. This temple, which follows ideals of reformer Narayana Guru, has taken widows as priests.
Talking to reporters here on Saturday, Senior Congress Leader B. Janardhana Poojary, on behalf the Temple Management Committee, said as many as 5,000 women, who have lost their husbands, will be called to perform Lakshmi and Sri Vishnu poojas on October 23. They will be brought in a procession along with the women temple priests for the pooja. These women will then pull the silver chariot carrying the temple’s deity, Mr. Poojary said.
Mr. Poojary said measures of the temple to actively involve women, who have lost their husbands, in the temple rituals has prompted temple managements in Mathura and Pandarpur to follow suit. “Such measures bring divinity towards women, who rightly deserve that place.” He urged the State and Central Government to take similar steps at the temples under their control.
Mr. Poojary said women interested in participating in the event should register their names before October 23.
Opposes legalising prostitution
Mr. Poojary expressed his opposition to legalising prostitution. “If this turns out true then no action can be taken against persons who drive women towards prostitution.” Mr. Poojary said the Government should prevail upon women involved in prostitution to leave it and work elsewhere. “If jobs are provided for these women, they will not be in prostitution,” he said. Heads from different religions should meet such women and convince against prostitution, he added.
