A grand procession marking the birth anniversary of Vishwaguru Basavanna, a 12th-century social reformer, was held in Belagavi on Sunday amid vibrant celebrations and strong public participation.
The procession was ceremonially flagged off at Rani Kittur Chennamma Circle by prominent seers, including Naganur Rudrakshi Mutt pontiff Allamaprabhu Mahaswami, Gurusiddha Swami of Karanji Mutt, Shivananda Swami of Madi Handigund, Nijagunananda Swami of Bailur, Madiwala Rajayogindra Swami of Kittur Kalmath and Chandrashekar Shivacharya Swami of Hukkeri.
Several political leaders and dignitaries were present, including minister Laxmi Hebbalkar, KLE honorary executive chairman Dr. Prabhakar Kore, Rajya Sabha member Iranna Kadadi, MP Jagadish Shettar, MLAs Laxman Savadi, Ganesh Hukkeri and Asif Sait. Mayor Preeti Kamakar, deputy mayor Hanumant Kongali, former MP Mangala Angadi and former minister AB Patil also attended.
Thousands of devotees from across the district joined the procession, which showcased a rich blend of cultural and spiritual elements. Highlights included palanquins carrying vachana bundles, traditional Chande Maddale troupes from Udupi, a 16-foot statue of Basavanna, zhanj pathak teams, a digital elephant bearing Basavanna's idol, Shivasharane dance performances, bhajana mandalis, Kolata troupes and multiple decorative tableaux presented by various organisations, including SGBIT College. The procession traversed key city routes such as Kakati Ves, Shanivar Khoot, Ganapati Galli, Maruti Galli and Kirloskar Road, before culminating at the Lingraj College premises. A large number of spectators lined the streets, and the celebrations concluded with an elaborate fireworks display.
Organisers ensured smooth and disciplined conduct throughout the event. Under the leadership of honorary president Ramesh Chougula and Federation of Ex-Servicemen Associations president Jagadish Poojari, volunteers managed the crowds effectively, preventing any untoward incidents.
Devotional fervour marked the entire procession, with chants in praise of Basavanna, tributes to Basavadi Sharana saints and recitations of vachanas echoing along the route. Mahaprasad was served to thousands of devotees at the concluding venue.
