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MANGALURU: Mangaluru MLA UT Khader donated 300 face shields through UT Fareed Foundation to Someshwara Sri Somanatha Temple in his constituency, where annual festival and Brahmakalashotsava are being held till April 26.

In the wake of fresh Covid-19 guidelines issued by the state government, the temple has decided to make rituals symbolic without allowing devotees. The famous temple on the seashore in Someshwara has cancelled all cultural programmes and decided to hold only rituals of Brahmakalashotsava.

Khader said that masks have been donated to protect volunteers taking part in the festival and a symbol of harmony. “The historic temple is on the threshold of Brahmakalashotsav rituals. The temple has decided to cancel all public programmes and hold rituals following the guidelines of the government. To protect the health of volunteers the U T Fareed Foundation has decided to donate face shields,” Khader said.

The MLA, who met with an accident few days ago, has fracture in his leg. Hence, former MLA and senior Congress leader T Shakuntala Shetty handed over the face shields on behalf of Khader to temple renovation committee president Raveendranath Rai and members Chandrashekhar Holla, Ramadas and Jagadish Uchil.

Meanwhile, interlock and steps constructed through the local area development fund of MLA Khader was dedicated on the occasion.

The temple management was accused of failing to adhere to the government guidelines related to Covid-19 while holding annual festival. A case was also registered in this connection.

Deputy commissioner Dr K V Rajendra said only priests may hold rituals and devotees should not be allowed to take part in the festival.