BARKUR, April 5, 2025 - The historic town of Barkur witnessed an extraordinary display of religious fervor and cultural heritage as thousands of devotees participated in the annual Brahma Rathothsava, popularly known as "Barkur Habba," at the prestigious Sri Panchalingeswara Temple in Kotekeri today, 5th April 2025.
The magnificent event, which marked the culmination of a week-long religious celebration, saw devotees from across the region gathering to pull the elaborately decorated chariot (Ratha) through Car Street to Kalchappra and back to the temple premises. The chariot procession was accompanied by the traditional Thattirayas, who added splendor to the grand spectacle.
Under the meticulous guidance of the temple's Paryaya Tantriya, Vedamoorthi Sri Krishna Somayaji, the festival adhered strictly to age-old customs and traditions. The air reverberated with religious chants and enthusiastic cheering as devotees, young and old alike, joined hands to pull the massive chariot using thick ropes.
"This annual celebration not only strengthens our religious bonds but also preserves our cultural heritage," remarked one of the temple committee members. "The participation we witnessed today is truly overwhelming."
The chariot, adorned with intricate floral decorations, vibrant fabrics, and traditional ornaments, was a sight to behold as it majestically moved through the streets. Several ritual performances were conducted at various points along the procession route, with priests performing sacred ceremonies at designated stops.
Local residents described this year's celebration as particularly grand, with increased participation compared to previous years. "The devotion and energy of the crowd was palpable," said Ramesh Shetty, a local businessman who has been attending the festival for decades. "It's heartening to see our traditions being carried forward with such enthusiasm."
The week-long festivities leading up to the Rathothsava included various religious rituals, cultural programs, and community feasts. Temple authorities expressed satisfaction with the smooth execution of all events and thanked the devotees for their wholehearted participation.
As the sun set on Barkur today, the successful return of the chariot to the temple marked the conclusion of another chapter in the centuries-old tradition, leaving devotees looking forward to next year's celebration with renewed faith and devotion.