RIVERSIDE: Last weekend, the Shri Lakshmi Narayan Mandir, Riverside, celebrated Deepavali with a three-day Mahotsava. Diyas were lit on every altar and outside in the clay tulsi container. The Mandir remained open all day on Friday for the many devotees who came in droves all day. Businessmen brought their laptops and books for the Chopra / Lakshmi Puja that evening. Approximately 500 devotees attended Annakut / Govardhan Puja, held Saturday evening.

The major sponsors sat in the front row and during pooja followed the instructions of Pandits Vipul Jani and Seshacharyulu Samudrala.Head Priest Dr Shukavak Dasa told the story of how the 7-year-old Krishna lifted Mount Govardhan with his little finger. An orange curtain concealed the altar where 101 offerings had been placed in stainless steel bowls before Shri Lakshmi Narayan. A four-foot papier-mache Mount Govardhan stood in front of it all. On the third day of the Mahotsava, Sunday, Deepavali was celebrated with Lakshmi Puja.

Over 300 devotees enjoyed bhajans by Amit Anand. A sumptuous feast was eaten after each event. All the hard work, which resulted in these successful events, was performed by Program Chair Archana Sheth and Festivals Committee Chairperson Suma Hareesh. In keeping with tradition, it was a weekend filled with friends wishing others Happy Deepavali and Happy New Year.