Ardrotsava took place on January 03, 2026 with the Mahamangalarati to Lord Malahanikareshwara and Goddess Bhavani being performed early morning around 5:30 AM in the divine presence of Jagadguru Sri Vidhushekhara Bharati Sannidhanam. Earlier special Abhisheka was performed to the Malahanikareshwara Swami and Lord Nataraja, the Utsava Murthy. After the Maha-mangala-arati at the Malahanikareshwara temple, Ashtavadhana Seva took place. Jagadguru Sri Sannidhanam then led the procession of the Utsava Murtis of Lord Malahanikareshwara (as Nataraja) and Goddess Bhavani (as Shivakami). The procession commenced with three circumambulations around the sanctum sanctorum, with each Pradakshina getting longer and descending down the hillock. The procession continued along the main streets of Sringeri and arrived at the Sringeri Town Municipal Office near the Sringeri Math premises. Puja to the Utsava Murtis was then performed.

After Mahamangalarati and Ashtavadhana Seva, the Utsava murtis were taken to the Pravachana Mandir amidst the chanting of Sri Shivanandalahari. On the previous night of January 02, Andhakasura Vadha was performed near the Rajagopuram in the divine presence of Jagadguru Sri Sannidhanam.