St. Mary’s Basilica Feast draws Thousands for Chariot Procession in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, September 10, 2026: Thousands of devotees gathered at St. Mary’s Basilica in Shivajinagar on September 8 for the annual Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, marked by a grand chariot procession, solemn liturgical celebrations and a strong message of interfaith harmony.

The feast followed a nine-day novena and featured the blessing of new projects at the Basilica Annexe by Archbishop Peter Machado of Bangalore. Auxiliary bishops, priests, religious and large numbers of faithful were present for the blessing and inauguration of the new facilities aimed at supporting the shrine’s expanding pastoral and community-service activities.

The traditional chariot procession was the centrepiece of the celebrations. Carrying the statue of Our Lady, the elaborately decorated chariot moved through the crowded streets of Shivajinagar as devotees joined in prayers and hymns.

Karnataka Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar attended the procession along with Energy Minister K. J. George and Food and Civil Supplies Minister Rizwan Arshad.

Archbishop Machado thanked the Karnataka government and local authorities for their cooperation and logistical support in facilitating the celebrations. He described the Basilica as a place of faith, friendship and hope that welcomes people from different communities.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Shivakumar underscored Karnataka’s tradition of religious harmony and mutual respect. While people may follow different faiths, he said, humanity, equality and respect for one another should unite society.

The procession returned to the Basilica for Benediction and a solemn thanksgiving service. The ceremonial lowering of the feast flag brought the 2026 celebrations to a close.

By Archdiocese of Bangalore