A sea of humanity descended upon the sacred hill of Yallammanagudda on Saturday as the month-long Banada Hunnime fair commenced, drawing lakhs of fervent devotees from across Karnataka and Maharashtra. The district administration had made extensive preparations to manage the massive influx and ensure a smooth spiritual experience for all pilgrims.
Devotion Defies the Chill
Despite the prevailing chilly weather, the atmosphere was charged with unwavering devotion. From the early hours, the hill area was packed with people, their chants of ‘Udho Udho Yallamma' resonating through the air. Devotees performed rituals with deep faith, offering special prayers to Mother Yallamma Devi, also revered as Goddess Renuka Yallamma. Special prayer sessions were held both in the morning and the evening.
Long queues formed from dawn as people patiently waited for their turn to have darshan of the deity. The holy sites of Jogulabavi and the oil tank of Yallammanagar witnessed devotees taking sacred baths, with separate facilities arranged for men and women. In a display of community spirit, offerings were prepared on the roadside and across the vast hill surroundings and distributed among the pilgrims.
A Cultural and Logistical Spectacle
The fair was not just a religious gathering but a cultural extravaganza. The traditional dance of the Jogatis and performances by various folk art groups attracted large, captivated crowds. Adding to the vibrant scene, youth enthusiastically threw Bhandara (turmeric) over the temple premises.
The commercial aspect was equally lively, with shops doing brisk business selling puja items like coconut, camphor, and saffron-bhandara. However, the enormous turnout led to significant traffic disruptions on the Yallammanagaram-Ugargol route, with vehicles backed up for 3 to 4 kilometres. Police personnel worked tirelessly to untangle the gridlock.
Elaborate Arrangements for Pilgrim Comfort
Anticipating the crowds, the district administration and the Yallamma Temple Development Authority had rolled out a comprehensive plan. Key facilities ensured for the pilgrims included:
- Ample drinking water through overhead tanks and multiple water points.
- Accommodation rooms and renovated toilet complexes.
- Health clinics, ambulances, and fire services on standby.
- Enhanced security with a strong deployment of police and home guards.
To manage transportation, the transport department has arranged for additional buses from Belagavi and other outside points, with plans to increase services further if the crowd swells. The vibrant and spiritually charged Banada Hunnime fair will continue its celebrations until the festival of Shivaratri.
