Khapri Jatra: A unique tradition of faith

Karwar

Khapri Jatra, a special festival in Uttara Kannada, was celebrated with devotion on Sunday. Thousands gathered at Khapri Temple in Karwar for prayers and rituals. Unlike other festivals, liquor and beedis are offered to the deity. Devotees from Karnataka, Goa, and Maharashtra perform aarti using cigarettes. Folklore says Khapri, of African descent, escaped Portuguese captivity and became a healer. Honoured after his death, his temple hosts this annual jatra, blending faith and unique traditions.