Hallikar Bullocks Triumph at Hampi Utsav Competition
In a vibrant display of rural tradition, the Hampi Utsav in Vijayanagara district witnessed a thrilling bullock pair competition on Friday, with 180 pairs participating. The Hallikar breed emerged victorious, showcasing the region's agricultural heritage.
Prize Winners and Ministerial Support
The champion prize of Rs 10,000 and a certificate was awarded to the Hallikar bullock pair owned by Manjunath R from Hosapete. Following closely, B Basava of Gadinaganur village secured second place, Shankarappa from Balapur village took third, and Mahmud Hussain of Hosapete claimed fourth position. In a significant gesture, District Minister BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan personally supported the award-winning farmers by presenting a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh, highlighting the government's commitment to agricultural communities.
Inauguration of Stalls and Cultural Attractions
Deputy Commissioner Kavita S Mannikeri inaugurated a diverse array of stalls at the Matanga Parvat ground, including horticulture, fruit and flower, agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and trade exhibits. The event featured stunning floral recreations that became major attractions:
- Iconic Badavi Linga and Sasivekalu Ganesha statues crafted from flowers.
- An idol of Sri Krishna made entirely from floral arrangements.
- A Salumarada Thimmakka idol constructed from millets, which garnered significant public admiration.
Additionally, an ornamental fish display attracted large crowds, enhancing the festive ambiance of the venue.
Social Awareness and Rangoli Competitions
Outside the Sri Virupaksha Temple, a rangoli competition emphasized social causes, with the image 'Save the Female Foetus' raising awareness. A total of 41 female contestants participated, creating intricate designs that captivated audiences. Notable rangoli themes included:
- The Varaha emblem of the historic Vijayanagara Empire.
- Depictions of Sri Krishna Devaraya.
- Shiva Linga and lion motifs, reflecting local cultural symbols.
This blend of agricultural pride, artistic expression, and social messaging made the Hampi Utsav a memorable celebration of Karnataka's rich traditions and community spirit.
