RAMESH SAVAIKAR | NT NET WORK
BICHOLIM: Devotees of Vithal and Rakhumai celebrated Ashadhi Ekadashi with traditional fervour, enthusiasm and gaiety by performing religious rituals. The day began with devotes keeping a fast on this auspicious day and offering prayers to Lord Vithal, seeking blessings for a prosperous and happy life.

Thousands of devotes from different parts of the state thronged to Vithalpur-Sanquelim. The temple premise was packed with devotees who chanted ‘abhagas’ of great Marathi saints.
Speaker of the state assembly and the president of the Pandurang temple committee, Mr Pratpsing Rane performed the ‘abhisheka’ with his family. The Minister for Health, Mr Vishwajeet Rane, Maharani of Karnataka, Ms Sushiladevi Ghorpade, and Ms Vijayadevi Rane were present too. The members of the committee and mahjans also performed abhishekas.
After the conclusion of the abhishekas Mahapuja, the mahaarati was performed, followed by the tirth prasad. Women and students took part in a special dindi.
A musical programme followed next, in which vocalist Raja Kale sang devotional songs.  Kale presented bhakti geetas and abhangas on Lord Vithala. His vocal presentation mesmerised the huge gathering of devotees.