Belur
The Sri Channakesava temple in Belur, a world heritage site, commenced its first annual Jatra Mahotsava program, spanning over nine days. The festivities included classical rituals and major festivals such as Kalyanotsava, Chandra Mandalotsava, Surya Mandalotsava, Hamsa Utsava, Belli Mantapotsava, Hanumanthotsava, Garudotsava, and more. Thousands of devotees and tourists from outside the state gathered in the city’s hostels and near the inner and outer premises of the temple. The highlight of the celebrations was the Divya Brahma Rathotsava of Sri Channakesava Swami, which took place during Mithuna Lagna. Amidst the joyous atmosphere, devotees enthusiastically pulled the chariot near the south-east corner of the temple, expressing their devotion. Several dignitaries graced the occasion, including MLA HK Suresh, Former Minister HD Revanna, District Collector Satyabhama, District Panchayat CEO Poornima, Tehsildar Mamata, and other representatives. Maulvi Bhasha Qadri Saheb paid homage to the deity by offering tribute in the inner premises of the temple, although he did not recite the Koran in front of the chariot.
