The historic Banashankari temple in Cholachagudda village, Badami taluk, is currently a vibrant hub of devotion and celebration as the annual Banashankari fair draws thousands of devotees from across India. The serene banks of the Saraswati stream have transformed into a colourful spectacle, with the adjoining towns of Badami and Cholachagudda adorned with floral decorations.
A Festival Steeped in Ritual and Tradition
The religious ceremonies for this grand event commenced on December 27. The pinnacle of the festivities will be the majestic Rathotsava (chariot festival) on January 3, which coincides with Banada Hunnime, the full moon day. On this auspicious day, the goddess will be uniquely adorned with 108 varieties of vegetables. The chariot is pulled using specially crafted ropes, which arrive with great fanfare in a decorated bullock cart from Mudalageri village in Gadag district.
The fair, a profound symbol of unity, attracts devotees from all castes and communities. It is considered an highly auspicious period for activities like fixing marriages and purchasing agricultural equipment. The celebrations will conclude on January 7 with the ceremonial lowering of the Kalasa.
Enduring Cultural Charms and Unique Attractions
Despite the digital age, professional drama companies remain a massive crowd-puller at the fair. These troupes set up temporary theatres and stage performances for months. The fair's legacy includes performances by legends of Kannada theatre like Dr Rajkumar, Gubbi Veeranna, Chindodi Leela, and Umashri.
A beautiful example of cultural harmony is seen in the marketplace, where many shops selling vermilion, clothes, and sweets are run by Muslim vendors, who also proudly display portraits of Goddess Banashankari. Other notable attractions include:
- The sale of intricately carved wooden doors and frames by artisans from Holealur.
- A dedicated cattle fair with a focus on white bulls.
- The Teppotsava (boat festival) in the Haridra Teertha temple tank.
- Cultural programmes featuring music, drama, and circus performances.
The Historic Temple's Legacy
Popularly known as Banashankari or Vanashankari due to its location in the Tilakaaranya forest, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Shakambhari, an incarnation of Parvati. Originally built by the 7th-century Kalyani Chalukya kings, the structure was renovated in 1750 by Maratha chieftain Parashuram Agale. The main sanctum houses the revered idol of Goddess Banashankari, making it a focal point of faith and heritage in the region.
The Banashankari fair is more than a religious gathering; it is a living tapestry of Karnataka's culture, tradition, and communal harmony, offering a unique blend of spirituality, commerce, and entertainment for its largely rural attendees.
