“Annual Feast Unveiled: Flag Hoisting Marks Start of Celebrations at Harihar Basilica”

Davanagere, August 30, 2023: All roads led to the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Health in Harihar on August 30, 2023.

The Annual Feast of Harihar Matha Basilica began with the hoisting of the flag by Most Rev. Dr. Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of the Diocese of Shimoga, and Sri. S. S. Mallikarjun, Hon’ble Minister of Mines, Geology, and Horticulture, Govt. of Karnataka. The Rector of the Basilica, Rev. Fr. George K. A., welcomed the dignitaries and the gathering.

Flagging off the nine-day celebrations, Bishop Francis Serrao SJ urged the faithful to imbibe the values of Mother Mary, who wipes the tears of the distressed.

Thousands of devotees from all walks of life, some clad in saffron, witnessed the event. The sudden inflow of pilgrims threw the traffic out of gear in the city. Many priests of the diocese concelebrated the high mass with Bishop Francis Serrao SJ. The theme of the homily was: “The life of Mother Mary is the source of inspiration for women.”

After the Eucharist, priests blessed the devotees by laying their hands on their heads. Following the celebrations, the devotees took part in “Anna Santharapane” (food).

Prayers were held for the farmers, the rains, and the leaders. State Minister S. S. Mallikarjun inaugurated the event and also hoisted the flag along with His Grace Bishop Francis Serrao SJ. He wished all the devotees well and prayed for the good of all. Mr. Nandigavi Shrinivas, the young, energetic, and vibrant Congress youth leader, was also felicitated at the function. This function was successfully hosted by Gnanaprakash D., the secretary of the parish.