KALABURAGI
Plans are now in motion for the historic 622nd Urs of Hazrat Khwaja Banda Nawaz. The annual festival, which draws thousands of devotees from across the globe, is scheduled to take place from May 3 to 5. Religious leader Dr. Hafiz Syed Muhammad Ali Al-Hussaini led a high-level meeting to ensure every visitor enjoys a safe and comfortable stay.
The city is preparing for a massive influx of people. To keep the area clean, the municipal corporation will deploy 100 sanitation workers and install dozens of new garbage bins. Lighting is also a priority, with over 170 new streetlights being added along the main procession routes. Officials have promised a continuous water supply for seven days to meet the high demand during the peak festival period.
Travel will be easier this year, as the Transport Department plans to run 35 special buses from nearby regions like Hyderabad and Tandur. Even the Railways are joining in, requesting a special train to handle the crowds. At the local station, drinking water and shaded waiting areas will be set up for arriving pilgrims.
Safety and health are at the forefront of the mission. The Health Department will station doctors and ambulances at the site, while police will use metal detectors to maintain security. Local leaders, including MLA Kaneez Fatima and Mayor Varsha Rajeev, have pledged their full support. With preparatory work starting next week, Kalaburagi is ready to honor its rich spiritual heritage with grace.