The annual Kittur Utsav has officially begun in Belagavi! The celebration, which honors the legendary Rani Chennamma of Kittur, commenced on Wednesday, October 23rd, with immense grandeur and public enthusiasm. This year’s start was notable, even with intermittent rains. The entire festival serves as a powerful commemoration of the iconic queen’s bravery, valor, and patriotism in her historic fight against British rule. The event reinforces the region’s cultural pride and historical memory.
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Official Inauguration and Tributes
The festivities were formally inaugurated by District In-charge Minister Satish Jarkiholi. The minister first received the Victory Torch (Jyoti), which had traveled across Karnataka, symbolizing the queen’s victorious spirit and the widespread recognition of her legacy. He then proceeded to Chennamma Circle to proudly hoist the Kittur Kingdom flag.
Following the flag hoisting, a moment of solemn respect took place. Several dignitaries gathered to pay floral tributes to the valiant heroes of the region. These included the statues of Rani Chennamma, her loyal general Sangolli Rayanna, and freedom fighter Amatur Balappa. Among the officials present were Kittur MLA Babasaheb Patil, Belagavi North MLA Asif (Raju) Sait, Kalmath Math Swamiji Madival Rajayogindra, Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan, Zilla Panchayat CEO Rahul Shinde, and SP Dr. Bhimashankar Guled. Earlier in the day, DC Mohammad Roshan had upheld a cherished annual custom by hoisting the inaugural flag at Gadadamaradi. This dual flag-hoisting symbolizes the continuity of Kittur’s heritage.
Vibrant Folk Art Parade Takes Center Stage
The cultural highlight of the opening day was undoubtedly the spectacular Folk Art Parade. Minister for Women and Child Development Lakshmi Hebbalkar inaugurated the parade at Chennamma Circle, marking the start of the colorful procession. This parade was a breathtaking showcase of Karnataka’s rich and diverse folk traditions.
The streets came alive with numerous energetic performances. Artists presented the thundering drum beats of Dollu Kunitha. Spectators cheered for the whimsical and dynamic Karadi Majalu and the rhythmic steps of Hejjemela. The parade also featured traditional dance forms like Gombe Kunitha (puppet dance), the percussion-based Kamsale, and the powerful Chande Vadana (drumming). Despite light drizzles, crowds of spectators lined the routes, applauding and encouraging the performers. Additionally, various government departments participated, presenting colorful tableaux designed to highlight important public welfare schemes. The public appreciated these informative and vibrant displays. The parade successfully merged traditional art with modern governmental messaging.
Exhibitions and Festive Atmosphere
Adding significantly to the celebratory mood, the festival also features extensive exhibits. Dignitaries, including Minister Satish Jarkiholi and State Finance Corporation Chairman Mahantesh Koujalgi, jointly inaugurated the official exhibition and flower displays situated at the Kittur Fort premises.
This year, the exhibition is extensive. It includes 121 stalls focused on important sectors like agriculture, health awareness, and horticulture. For the food enthusiasts, there are 37 food stalls that offer a wide array of traditional, local delicacies. The atmosphere was joyful and bustling. Hundreds of visitors traveled from Kittur and its neighboring villages, arriving early in the morning to explore the stalls and partake in the excitement. The Kittur Utsav is a cultural anchor, perfectly blending with the festive spirit of Diwali currently sweeping the region. The grand opening successfully set the stage for a memorable cultural event.
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