Mukti Flag Auctioned For A Whopping Rs 3.11 Lakh At Karnataka's Umamaheshwara Swamy Rathotsava, Check Details

The annual Sri Umamaheshwara Swamy Rathotsava was celebrated with grandeur and deep devotion at N. Gouripura village in Challakere taluk of Chitradurga district, drawing thousands of devotees from surrounding areas.

The festivities began with traditional rituals, including the ceremonial offering of food to the chariot from the residence of Gonchigar Siddappa. The Utsava idol of Sri Umamaheshwara Swamy was then brought in a palanquin and taken around the chariot three times before being installed, marking the commencement of the Rathotsava rituals.

A key highlight of the celebrations was the auction of the revered Mukti flag, which was secured by Vijayanna of Gowripura village for Rs 3.11 lakh. Following the auction, villagers performed Mahamangalaarti,

formally flagging off the chariot procession amid chants and devotional fervour.

As part of the festival, the entire village was illuminated with decorative lighting. The chariot itself was adorned with vibrant flags and massive flower garlands. Devotees expressed their devotion by breaking coconuts and offering bananas as the chariot moved through the streets.

Prior to the procession, special pujas were conducted at the temple. The palanquin procession, accompanied by traditional musical instruments, added to the festive spirit. Devotees showered bananas, jaggery and pepper along the chariot’s path, filling the atmosphere with joy and celebration.

The village witnessed a festive mood for two days, with homes decorated using rangoli and garlands. Religious activities at the temple began early in the morning, as devotees gathered for darshan and offerings.

Traditional performances featuring Veeragase, Nandi Kolu, Tamate and Mangala instruments were major attractions. The chariot was pulled from the Sri Umamaheshwara Swamy Rathotsava Temple through the main street to the footbridge, concluding at its designated resting place after elaborate rituals and offerings.