The Bengaluru Karaga Festival, which has been taking place for quite some time is returning to the city. This is a nine-day tradition that was started and sustained by Thigalars, a Tamil-speaking community of gardeners. Yes, according to a report by News9Live, it was mentioned that this will be happening at the Dharmaraya Swamy Temple in Thigalarapet and A Jnanedra will continue to be the Karaga bearer.
Bengaluru Karaga Festival To Return In April
A nine-day festival in Bangalore, this is a procession in which a priest dressed in female attire leads a spectacular procession. While they are accompanied by dazzling swordplay and a number of dhoti-clad bare-chested thigalars, it’s the pyramid of flowers that looks absolutely stunning. Yes, this year, A Jnanedra will again continue to be the Karaga bearer, in which he will carry a flower pyramid on his head. Visiting the tomb of an 18th-century Muslim saint is also a unique feature of the Karaga. As a result, this custom has also become a symbol of Hindu-Muslim unity.
How Is It Celebrated?
In case you’re wondering, the festivities are held on the full moon day of Chaitra Masa of Hindu calendar. While the dates may vary every year, it generally happens in March or April. And this year it’s happening in the month of April. It’s the procession that’s the main attraction of the festival. Dressed as the goddess Draupadi, the priest leads the procession to Dharmaraya Swamy Temple while carrying a mud pot that is topped with a tall floral decoration.
Why Is It Celebrated?
According to the legends, Dhraupadi built an army of soldiers, called Veerakumaras after the Mahabharata war. This was done to fight a demon called Timirasura. So, when she was leaving for heaven with Pandavas, the Veerakumaras begged her to stay. As a result, she promised them to return to earth once every year and the festivities are celebrated to mark her homecoming.
So, if you also wish to witness this brilliant procession, don’t forget to keep the dates in mind.
Cover Image Courtesy: karnatakatourism.org
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.