Historic Kote Marikamba Jatra Kicks Off with Immense Devotion in Shivamogga
The historic Kote Marikamba Jatra, a grand biennial festival celebrated with deep religious fervour, officially commenced on Tuesday in Shivamogga. This five-day extravaganza, which draws devotees from across Karnataka and beyond, is set to continue until the end of the month, showcasing the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the region.
Traditional Commencement and Early Morning Devotion
Following long-standing tradition, the idol of Goddess Marikamba was ceremoniously installed in front of the Nadiga family residence at Gandhi Bazaar at approximately 7 am. This installation marked the formal beginning of the public darshan, allowing devotees to seek blessings from the revered deity.
Demonstrating their unwavering faith, devotees began forming queues as early as 3 am, eager to catch a glimpse of the goddess. By the break of dawn, the line had already extended over an impressive 2 kilometers, reflecting the festival's massive popularity and spiritual significance.
Systematic Crowd Management and Traditional Rituals
To handle the enormous influx of participants, local authorities implemented a carefully planned entry-exit system using barricades. This systematic approach aimed to ensure smooth movement and safety for all attendees amidst the swelling crowds.
The inaugural puja was performed by the Nadiga family from BB Road, a ritual steeped in historical precedence. Following the puja, curtains were drawn amid resounding chants of "Jai Marikamba" from the gathered multitude, creating an electrifying atmosphere of devotion.
Thousands of women participated in the traditional offering of madalakki, a sacred preparation of rice and coconut, as they sought the goddess's blessings for prosperity and well-being. This ritual highlights the festival's deep-rooted cultural practices.
Overwhelming Public Participation and Security Measures
Despite the introduction of VIP passes for streamlined access, the general crowd remained overwhelmingly large, underscoring the festival's broad public appeal. Volunteers and a substantial police contingent were strategically deployed throughout the Gandhi Bazaar area to maintain order and prevent any untoward incidents.
Authorities described the scene as a "sea of devotees" that continued to grow as the day progressed. With the festival scheduled to run until month-end, local officials anticipate that this year's attendance may surpass previous records, given the early indicators of massive participation.
The Kote Marikamba Jatra not only serves as a spiritual gathering but also as a significant cultural event that boosts local economy and community cohesion. Its successful commencement sets a positive tone for the remaining days of celebration.
