Hasanamba Temple to be opened on October 29

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Excise Minister K.M. Shivalinge Gowda addressing the media in Hassan on Saturday. | Photo Credit: PRAKASH HASSAN

Hassan district administration has begun preparations for the Hasanamba festival, to be held from October 29 to November 11, the period during which the doors of the historic Hasanamba Temple in Hassan will be opened to the public.

Lakhs of devotees from across the State and beyond visit the temple for darshan during the festival, as it is the only time of the year when the temple opens for devotees.

Excise Minister K.M. Shivalinge Gowda, who is also in-charge of Hassan district, briefed reporters on Saturday on the arrangements being made for the smooth conduct of the festival.

The Minister said the temple doors would open on October 29 at 12 noon. However, devotees would not be allowed inside on the first day, which is reserved for rituals conducted by designated priests. From October 30 onwards, devotees can visit the temple.

Mr. Shivalinge Gowda said the administration has fixed the time between 10.30 a.m. and 12.30 p.m. each day for VIP visits. VIPs are required to inform the district administration of their visit well in advance to allow officials to make proper arrangements.

He said that, except for the Governor, Chief Minister, former Prime Ministers, Deputy Chief Minister, Chairman of the Legislative Council, Speaker, Home Minister and Chief Justice, all other visitors would have to travel to the temple in vehicles arranged by the district administration.

The administration will also decorate prominent streets with lights, and the police will make necessary arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the festival, he added.

MLA H.P. Swaroop, Deputy Commissioner K.S. Lathakumari, SP Shubhanwita and others were present at the press conference.

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