New Delhi, Nov 28 (NationPress) As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for his upcoming visit to Karnataka, where he will be greeted with a traditional ceremony at the historic Udupi Sri Krishna Math and participate in the ‘Laksha Kantha Gita’ mass chanting event, locals from Udupi are brimming with anticipation. They believe this visit will significantly boost temple tourism in the region.

IANS reached out to various residents who convened in Udupi, eager for the Prime Minister’s arrival.

Local resident Pradyumna Hebbar expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I am extremely excited and feel a sense of pride that PM Modi is visiting us after so long. He is a globally respected leader. Udupi has immense potential for religious tourism and can evolve into a prominent hub. His presence will greatly enhance Udupi’s visibility and tourism.”

Similarly, Prakyath Shetty conveyed his happiness about the visit, saying, “I am thrilled about his visit. PM Modi’s presence will have a positive influence on tourism and aid in the region's development.”

Bhuvana Kapu, who came all the way from Mangaluru, shared, “I am very excited to see him. I traveled from Mangaluru just for this occasion. While the Udupi Sri Krishna Math is already esteemed, it will receive even greater recognition globally.”

Residents are confident that the Prime Minister’s visit will not only attract devotees but also expedite infrastructure and cultural tourism initiatives in Udupi.

On Friday morning, the Prime Minister is set to be traditionally welcomed at the temple. He will visit Madhwa Sarovara, have darshan of the deity, and perform a special puja. Following this, he will attend an event where over 100,000 devotees will chant verses from the Bhagavad Gita, as stated by Paryaya Puttige Mutt seer Sugunendra Tirtha Swami on Thursday.

He further mentioned that the Prime Minister will unveil the “Kanaka Kavacha” (golden covering) for the divine “Kanakana Kindi” at the mutt.

It’s noteworthy that the story of Udupi Kanakana Kindi involves the 16th-century poet-saint Kanakadasa, who was initially barred from entering the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple due to his low caste. His sincere prayers from outside moved the idol of Lord Krishna, which miraculously turned to face him.

A crack formed in the wall, allowing Kanakadasa to glimpse the deity, which was later made into a small window termed Kanakana Kindi.

Seer Sugunendra Tirtha Swami remarked: “The mutt will present Suwarna Thirta Mantapa to the deity through PM Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister is expected to visit Sarvagnya Peeta, the goshala, and the new Gita Mandira. He will engage with all seers of the Ashta Mutts in the Chandrashale and receive their blessings. He has expressed a wish to taste some special Udupi dishes, including patrode.

Devotees will commence chanting Bhagavad Gita verses at 9 a.m. When the Prime Minister arrives, verses from Chapter 15 — Purushottama Yoga — and the concluding 10 verses of the final chapter will be recited. Participants from various regions of the country and abroad will join the recitation online. Those attending in person will be provided meals. All rituals at the Krishna Mutt will conclude by 8 a.m. on Friday.