A State of Fairs in Karnataka

On the 14^th day of the month of Ashwija, a village called Vithappa in Karnataka comes alive with throngs of devotees. In the western calendar, this event usually takes place in the month of October. People congregate to witness a procession for the local deity, Sri Vithappa, after whom the town has been named. Several miracles of faith are said to take place at this time. Even for those Karnataka tourists not religiously inclined, participating in this event can afford them a chance to better understand the people and culture of the area. The revelry associated with fair, and opportunities for sightseeing are added incentives to include this religious Indian festival in your travel itinerary to Karnataka.

Historical Roots of the Fair

This state witnesses a number of varied local celebrations through the year, each with its unique rationale and practices. In the case of the Sri Vithappa fair, the folk traditions associated with it have been codified over 200 years. An ornately decorated tableau of the deity has always been carried through the precincts of the town – the number of worshippers having increased exponentially over the years. People from adjoining villages and towns usually flock to Vithappa for the festival of Shigi Hunnive and stay on for the fair, which takes place for three days right after the former finishes.

Karnataka is home to many beautiful temples

Celebrations to Look Forward To

The refreshing thing about festivities in non-urban locales is the way old traditions are faithfully adhered to, and thus cultures kept alive. To date, the old customs of the fair are observed. It is estimated that nearly 9000 visitors come to Vithappa to partake in religious ceremonies. A palanquin of Sri Vithappa decorated with fabric, banana leaves and flowers are carried out onto the streets for a tour of the entire town. A contingent of 60 drummers, assembled from other parts of the state, accompany this representation.

Several rituals are associated with the fair. Some disciples carry milk as an offering to the idol, and believe it turns to curd spontaneously before the offering is made. Animal sacrifices also happen – chiefly goat, which is sold to devotees for a price by the priest of the temple. Proceeds from these sales are collected as temple funds for utilisation in various religious activities. Large quantities of grain are stored within the temple. As per custom a chosen devotee from Chunchanoor village is assigned to pick one fistful of grain from this reserve. This selected quantity is considered sacred, and thought to symbolise a productive harvest for the next sowing season.

The scenic town of Badami

Getting There

Travelling to Vithappa to witness the fair involves some planning, since the town is remotely located. The town is in Bagalkot district, towards the northern part of Karnataka. By road it is 485 kilometres from the capital Bengaluru. The nearest airport is Belgaum about 190 kilometres away. State transport buses ply between major towns and Badami, a short distance from Vithappa. The fair can be included with an excursion of Badami, a scenic tourist destination by itself.