Karwar: A large number of devotees from Karnataka, Maharashtra and Goa thronged the
Kurmagad island off the Karwar coast on Tuesday, to attend a
jatra (fair). It is estimated that more than 10,000 devotees visited the island to offer puja to God Narasimha.
Kurmagad is situated in the Arabian sea, and the temple remains open only for three days during the jatra. The Jatra Mahotsava, which is being carried out for the last several centuries, is being attended by the people of Karwar and its surrounding areas in large numbers. The idol of God Narasimha was taken to the island by boat on Saturday from Kadwad village in Karwar taluk. The idol will remain in the temple in Kurmagad island for three days, and will be brought back by the priest and the temple committee members after that.
The island is near the confluence of river Kali and the Arabian sea. The jatra has become an attraction for tourists. A large number of people were seen waiting for boats at the jetty near Kali bridge in Karwar, to visit the island. A large number of women from various places including Bengaluru and other cities participated in the jatra this year. Police made elaborate arrangements for the devotees who visited the island.
Pic: Devotees leave for Kurmagad island from Kali bridge in Karwar on Tuesday
