Bhatkal: On the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivaratri, thousands of devotees from different parts of Bhatkal taluk undertook an 18-kilometre barefoot padayatra to the world-famous Murdeshwar Temple on Thursday.

Chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” from the early hours of the morning, devotees began their spiritual march towards Murdeshwar, turning the highway stretch into a sea of faith and devotion.

Bhatkal Tahsildar Nagendra Kolashetti, along with officials and staff of the Revenue Department, also participated in the padayatra. The group started their journey from Bhatkal at around 4:00 am and reached the temple premises at approximately 7:00 am, where they offered prayers and sought divine blessings.

Speaking on the occasion, the Tahsildar said that it was the first time he had undertaken the padayatra along with his staff on Maha Shivaratri. He prayed that Lord Murdeshwar bless all devotees with long life and good health.

Meanwhile, for the 16th consecutive year, a separate padayatra was organised in the interest of public welfare under the patronage of Ranjan Gas Agency. The event saw the participation of Shivani Shantaram, Shantaram Bhatkal, Kiran Chandavar and several others associated with Ranjan Indane Agency, who joined devotees in the spiritual walk to the temple town.