Mysuru District Administration Intensifies Preparations for Maha Shivaratri Jathra at Male Mahadeshwara Hills
With the Maha Shivaratri jathra celebrations just days away, the Chamarajanagar district administration has significantly escalated its preparations to ensure the seamless execution of the annual festival at the revered Male Mahadeshwara Hills. The five-day jathra, scheduled from February 14 to 18, is anticipated to draw lakhs of devotees from across Karnataka to this sacred pilgrimage site.
Enhanced Security Measures Following Leopard Attack
In response to a recent leopard attack along the padayatra route that resulted in a fatality, the district administration has prioritized bolstering security arrangements. Although the leopard responsible has been captured, authorities are implementing additional precautions to safeguard pilgrims. Home guards, police personnel, and forest department officials are being deployed along the padayatra routes to monitor and ensure safety throughout the festival period.
Comprehensive Infrastructure and Amenities Upgrades
Under the directives of the district administration, the Srikshetra Malemahadeshwara Development Authority has initiated extensive preparations to enhance the pilgrimage experience. Key measures include:
- Ensuring adequate drinking water supply across the temple premises
- Illuminating and decorating the car street to create a festive atmosphere
- Clearing debris and maintaining overall cleanliness in and around the temple area
- Facilitating temporary accommodations for devotees in open fields surrounding the temple
- Opening additional toilets and cleaning all guest houses to accommodate the influx of pilgrims
Streamlined Darshan and Mass Feeding Arrangements
To ensure smooth darshan for all visitors, the authority has directed the preparation of seven lakh laddus as prasad. Separate entry gates and ticket counters will be established for senior citizens to facilitate easier access. Additionally, adequate stocks of rice, jaggery, and other essential provisions are being arranged for mass feeding, which will be available to devotees from 7 am to 12 am throughout the jathra.
Strict Enforcement Against Illegal Activities
To prevent the illegal sale of liquor and curb plastic usage atop the MM Hills, vehicle screening has been intensified at key checkposts, including Talebetta and Palar. Joint inspections by police and forest department personnel are being conducted to enforce these regulations and maintain order during the festivities.
Enhanced Healthcare Services for Pilgrims
Healthcare arrangements are being strengthened to address any medical emergencies. In addition to the existing services at the MM Hills Primary Health Centre, first-aid centres will be set up at strategic locations such as Talebetta and Kowdalli during the celebrations.
Official Assurance of Smooth Festival Conduct
Executive secretary of the Srikshetra MM Hills Development Authority, AE Raghu, confirmed that preparations are well underway in accordance with the directions of the district minister and administration. "All necessary facilities are being put in place to ensure the festival is conducted smoothly with proper rituals and adequate amenities for devotees," he stated, emphasizing the commitment to a successful and safe event.
