Goshala gears up for Maatu Pongal


Chennai: Goh Samrakshana Sala, a unit of Sri Chandrasekarendra Swamigal Trust at West Mambalam, is gearing up for its 43rd year of  Maatu Pongal celebrations 16 January.

Speaking on this, one of the organisers of the event, said, ”The goshala situated here is one of the oldest and biggest in the city, that was founded with the blessings of Kanchi Mahaperiyava. Around 120 cows and calves are maintained with utmost care and love.”

About the celebrations, he said, ”Each animal will be specially decorated on the day and goh pooja will be performed”. One of the highlights of the day, is the procession of colourfully decorated cows across the streets of West Mambalam, that usually attract large crowds.

”It is a pleasure to watch them walk through our homes. I am eagerly waiting for the event”, commented Vedagiri, a resident here. The celebrations will begin on 16 January at 7.30 am with mangala isai by Mambalam V Ramachandran, followed by stotraparayanam by the team of guru Karthikeyan and bhajans by Hare Krishna group, a press release said.

Madras High Court, Judge, Justice CV Karthikeyan will render a special address at 10.15 am, while Trust president and senior advocate, P Haridas, will preside over the function and volunteers of Srimadam will be honoured at the venue.

Trust secretary Murali will present the welcome address, the release added. Cows here are frequently visited by veterinary doctors, it is informed.

”Periodical medical check-ups are carried out by a team of doctors and treatment is given to needy cows. Also, regular goh poojas are carried out here, and devotees interested can participate in the event”, he pointed out.