Mysuru's Historic Suttur Jathra Mahotsava Kicks Off This Thursday
The annual Jathra Mahotsava starts this Thursday at Suttur. This sacred site sits on the banks of the Kapila River in Nanjangud taluk. The fair boasts a remarkable legacy spanning more than one thousand years. It stands as one of the region's most important spiritual and cultural gatherings. Lakhs of devotees flock to the event each year.
A Six-Day Celebration of Faith and Community
JSS Mahavidyapeeta secretary Manjunath spoke to reporters about the schedule. The six-day festivities will formally begin on January 16. The opening day features a mass marriage ceremony. It also includes the traditional Halaravi Utsava. This event symbolizes deep social harmony and inclusiveness.
January 17 brings the much-awaited Rathotsava, or chariot festival. The Sri Veerabhadreshwara Swamy Kondotsava will also occur on this day. Both events traditionally draw enormous crowds of devoted followers.
The spiritual fervor continues on January 18. This day hosts the Sri Mahadeshwara Kondotsava. It also features the spectacular Laksha Deepotsava. During this ceremony, the entire temple premises will glow with the light of thousands of lamps.
Final Days and Diverse Activities
The sacred Teppotsava, or float festival, is scheduled for January 19. The grand celebrations will conclude on January 20 with the Anna Brahmotsava. This final ritual reflects the mutt's long-standing tradition of dedicated community service.
Manjunath explained the festival's broader scope. Beyond the core religious rituals, the Mahotsava offers a rich mix of activities. The program includes cultural, educational, and sports events for all ages.
Organizers have planned numerous engaging events. These include rangoli competitions, sobane pada, devotional bhajans, and ragi grinding demonstrations. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy wrestling, kite flying, and Mallakhamba displays. Traditional rural games will also be featured.
The festival grounds will host an agricultural exhibition and fair. Farmer-oriented seminars will provide valuable knowledge. Health check-up camps will offer free services to attendees. Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the river.
Quiz competitions and drawing contests will engage younger participants. A major highlight is the 55th annual cattle fair. The Kapila Arathi ceremony and cultural performances by renowned art troupes will add to the vibrant atmosphere.
The Suttur Jathra Mahotsava truly embodies the spirit of Mysuru's cultural heritage. It blends deep devotion with joyful community celebration along the serene Kapila River.
