Bangalore: In a seemingly bizarre order in Karnataka, the state government has decided to spend Rs 17 crore on special rain prayers. Special pujas will be held at 34,000 temples each costing Rs 5000.
While the Opposition says it is a waste of public money, the government has defended the order.
The government has notified the order following a severely deficit monsoon this year, asking temples to hold special pujas, including Jalabhishekas, between July 27 and August 7.
Video Photo Gallery A government notification has asked 34,000 temples to hold special pujas between July 27 and August 7 to please the Hindu god Varuna.
Starting next Friday, the temples have been given orders on what Mantras to be chanted to appease the Hindu god Varuna, the rain god according to the Indian mythology.
The issue was raised by HD Revanna, Opposition leader of the JDS in the Assembly on Friday, who argued that it was a ridiculous waste of public money.
The government, however, defended its act saying it is most important to chant the Varuna Mantra for the welfare of the drought-hit state where there is no water for people, cattle or crops.