The town of Kushalnagar in Karnataka's Kodagu district came alive with spiritual fervour on Tuesday night as it celebrated Hanuman Jayanti in a grand and spectacular manner. The festivities, marked by beautifully decorated mantaps and massive public participation, saw thousands of devotees gather to honour Lord Hanuman.
A Spectacle of Devotion and Security
The 40th edition of the Hanuman Jayanti programme was organised jointly by the Sri Ramanjaneya Utsav Samiti, Temple Seva Trust, and Sri Anjaneya Seva Samiti. The highlight of the night was the procession and display of eight intricately decorated mantaps (pandals) that arrived from various locations. These vibrant structures, adorned with lights and religious motifs, converged at the Ganapati Temple in Kushalnagar, captivating the hearts of all present.
Ensuring the smooth and safe conduct of the large-scale event was a major undertaking for the police department. A robust security blanket was deployed, involving 800 police personnel. This force included four inspectors and 15 sub-inspectors, supported by four district armed reserve units and four contingents from the Karnataka State Reserve Police (KSRP). To manage the heavy influx of devotees and vehicles, traffic was strategically diverted to an alternative route outside the main town area.
Dignitaries and Devotees Join the Celebrations
The religious ceremony witnessed the participation of local political leaders, adding to the significance of the event. MLA Manthar Gowda and former MLA Appachu Ranjan took part in the special puja rituals, offering their prayers alongside the citizens. Their presence underscored the community-wide importance of the festival in the region.
The successful and peaceful celebration in Kushalnagar highlights the deep-rooted cultural and religious traditions of Kodagu. It also showcases the effective coordination between community organisers and law enforcement agencies in managing large public gatherings. The event served as a powerful display of collective faith, bringing together people from all walks of life in a shared expression of devotion.
