A spectacular display of devotion and community service unfolded in Koppal, Karnataka, as part of the grand Sri Gavisiddeshwara Jatra. The event witnessed an unprecedented culinary and spiritual feat where nearly six lakh piping hot mirchi bajjis were prepared and served to thousands of devotees. This initiative, known as the Maha Dasoha, turned into a major highlight of the annual festival, drawing participants from across the region.
A Monumental Effort by Volunteers
The monumental task was undertaken by the dedicated members of the Mirchi Balaga of Koppal. On the 6th of January, a small army of volunteers swung into action to make this massive offering a reality. The sacred service was inaugurated by Abhinava Gavisiddeshwar Swami, the pontiff of the Gavi Mutt, who ceremoniously dipped the first green chilli into the besan batter and fried it in oil, blessing the entire endeavor.
The scale of the operation was staggering. To achieve this goal, the organizers mobilized a team of 400 cooks and 150 helpers, all of whom volunteered their time and energy. The sheer volume of ingredients used paints a picture of the effort involved:
- 28 quintals of besan flour
- 22 quintals of fresh green chillies
- 15 barrels
- 60 kilograms of carom seeds (ajwain)
- A proportionate amount of salt
Feeding the Faithful After the Grand Procession
The Maha Dasoha service took place following the Maha Rathotsava, the grand chariot festival, which is a central event of the Jatra. After the procession, an estimated 2 lakh devotees were served the freshly prepared, crispy mirchi bajjis. The initiative not only provided nourishment but also became a symbolic act of community sharing and devotion, deeply enhancing the spiritual experience of the pilgrimage for everyone present.
A Defining Attraction of the Festival
This year, the preparation of six lakh mirchi bajjis emerged as one of the defining attractions of the Gavisiddeshwara Jatra. The festival, which already draws devotees from various parts of the state and beyond, gained an additional layer of fame due to this record-setting community kitchen. It showcased the power of collective effort in serving a spiritual cause and strengthened the cultural and religious significance of the annual event in Koppal.
The successful execution of this massive feat highlights the deep-rooted traditions of seva (selfless service) and community participation in Indian religious festivals. It stands as a testament to the organizational skills of the Mirchi Balaga and the unwavering faith of the volunteers who made it possible, ensuring that the essence of the Gavisiddeshwara Jatra was celebrated with both devotion and delicious generosity.
