Date:09/01/2009 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2009/01/09/stories/2009010956910300.htm

Karnataka

Six-day Chikkallore Jatre will begin on Sunday

Correspondent

Thousands of people are expected
to participate in it

Chamarajanagar: A large number of devotees of Saint Siddappaji are expected to visit Chikkallore to celebrate the six-day Chikkallore Jatra, which will begin in accordance with the Neelagara’s tradition from January 11 on the full moon night at Chikkalloor in Kollegal taluk.

On the full moon night, the priest of Boppegowdanapura will offer prayers to the Chandramandala.

The Chandramandala is a 30-ft tall crown-like structure made out of bamboo and coconut fibres with flower decoration atop surrounded by glowing sticks. The priest of Boppegowdanapura will light the fire after performing puja to the Chandramandala. Those who have taken vows will offer their first agricultural produce such as foodgrains, fruits, butter and ghee to the Chandramandala.An estimation of annual rainfall and crop quantity to be grown in the coming year will calculated and announced.

Muslims and those belonging to Other Backward Classes will also participate in the jatra.

The second day (January 12) will be devoted to the “Doddavara seve” and “Hulivahanotsav”, “Mudi seve”, “Pankti seve” and “Muthurayara seve” on the third, the fourth, the fifth and the sixth days respectively. The jatra will also witness the sacrifice of animals (sheep and goats) in the name of saint Siddappaji and Manteswamy. Though animal sacrifice is a cognisable offence, the devotees say that it is an offering. The mutton is distributed among all devotees as “prasadam”. The Government has banned animal sacrifice during the jatra.

But, defending the practice, the devotees said that the jatra is an example of communal harmony as people irrespective of their caste and creed participate in it. Hen and sheep is likely to cost more during the jatra as the demand will be more.

The District Administration has made all arrangements to ensure that the jatra passes off peacefully. Borewells around the jatra venue have been repaired. Several mini water tanks are being built. Street lights are being installed. Steps have been taken to widen the roads that lead to Chikkallore.