Bhatkal: The two-day Mari jatra festival in Bhatkal concluded on Thursday with the ceremonial immersion of the goddess Mari’s idol, as thousands of devotees defied heavy rainfall to participate in the grand procession.

The immersion procession began from the historic Marikamba temple and made its way to the Jali seashore, where traditional rituals were performed before the idol was immersed in the sea. Devotees carried the idol on their shoulders, chanting devotional slogans and walking through rain-soaked streets.

Despite persistent rain, large crowds, including women and children, gathered along the route to witness the procession. The atmosphere was festive, with flower vendors, toy stalls, and offering counters lining the streets outside the temple.

Security was tight, with a large police deployment under the supervision of Uttara Kannada Superintendent of Police Deepan M.N. Volunteers were also stationed throughout the town to manage the crowd.

Former MLA Sunil Naik and other public representatives joined the procession. The Mari jatra is considered one of the major religious festivals in coastal Karnataka, attracting devotees from across the region.