Bagalkot: Bidding of Hospital 6.5 lakh to buy coconut offered to Lord Malinganaya at the 12th century Temple in Chikkalaki Village in Jamkhandi.
“Some people call it blind madness and trust to pay a high price for coconut, but it is my dedication and faith,” Mahavir Harake said, a fruit vendor from Tikkota Village in the Vijayapura district.
Many villagers and worshipers took part in auction held by the Malingaraya Temple Committee on Wednesday, the last day of Shravana, as part of Sri Beeringeshwar Fair.
“Lord Malingaraya is considered a shape of Nandi Shiva and coconut stored in Gadduge God (throne) that is most sought after by the bidder because it is considered divine and lucky,” said Basu Kadli, Secretary of the Temple Committee.
The Temple Committee Secretary said they had auctioned the ‘Gadduge’ coconut for years now and the offer never passed RS 10,000.
This time, the offer starts at Rs 1,000 and in a few minutes, past Rs 1 Lakh.
“Then, another worshiper quoted Rs 3 Lakh and we thought the offer would end.
After that, Mahavir quoted Rs 6.50,000 and got coconut,” said Kadli.
“The Temple Committee will take advantage of the auction results for other religious development and work.” Harake said while many thought unwise to pay so much for coconut, it was a matter of faith for him.
“When I have severe health problems and suffer losses in my business, I pray to Lord Malingaraya.
In a few months, I overcome my problem.
I will keep the Divine Coconut in my house and worship it every day because it will bring luck,” he said.