Date:25/03/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/03/25/stories/2008032551430300.htm

Karnataka

Temple festival held in Challakere

Staff Correspondent

Chariot procession marks the event

The jatra began on March 16
The ritual has been practised for a
long time

Chitradurga: Despite the heavy downpour in Chitradurga, a large number of people participated in the historic Sri Tipperudraswamy Jatra and Rathotsava at Nayakanahatti village of Challakere taluk on Sunday.

The main attraction was the temple chariot procession.

Although the eight-day jatra began on March 16, the rathotsava, which is a significant part of the event, was held on Sunday.

Massive scramble

The ritual is believed to have been practised for long. The festival attracted people from various districts in the State. Devotees who were unable to find space near the chariot to witness the ritual climbed trees, buildings and vehicles to get a glimpse of the event. People threw bananas on to the chariot, which is considered a sacred act.

Animal sacrifice

Devotees also sacrificed animals to the deity on the occasion. However, the district administration instructed people to perform the ritual at least 2 km away from the temple precincts.

Security arrangements

The police made elaborate arrangements for the festival so as to avoid any untoward incident.