Tungabhadra Aarti Utsav at Huligi in Karnataka on August 26 to be organised on grand scale by Huligemma Devi Temple Development Authority

The much-awaited Tungabhadra Aarti Utsav will be held on the banks of the Tungabhadra river at Huligi on August 26 at 6.30 p.m., according to Rajashekhar Basavaraj Hitnal, Lok Sabha member from Koppal

Speaking after chairing a preparatory meeting at the Huligemma Devi temple office on August 17, Mr. Hitnal said the festival would be organised jointly by the Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments Department and the Shri Huligemma Devi Temple Development Authority. Elaborate floral decorations would adorn the sanctum sanctorum, the temple premises, the gopuram, and the riverside dais on the day of the Aarti.

In order to create wider public awareness, 20 publicity banners would be displayed at prominent locations, including Huligi Circle, Ningapur Cross, near the railway gate, Shivapur Road, Hitnal arch, as well as in Hosapete, Koppal and Gangavati.

“The riverbank will be illuminated with decorative lights and spotlights will be placed on the rocks within the river to enhance the grandeur of the occasion,” Mr. Hitnal added.

A ceremonial procession will escort dignitaries from the Muddamma Katta to the temple with traditional kumbha and musical ensembles, after which they will proceed to the riverside stage.

“Priests will conduct special rituals, including Chandika Homa and the Tungabhadra Aarti. Women devotees will take part in the traditional udi offering ritual. Cultural programmes will be organised in the evening. Volunteers and devotees, who rendered service during this year’s Huligemma Devi Jatra Mahadasoha, will be felicitated,” he said.

Koppal MLA K. Raghavendra Hitnal said that the Huligemma Devi Temple Development Authority is celebrating the Tungabhadra Aarti on such a grand scale for the first time.

“To ensure smooth conduct of the event, five committees have been formed. The programme will include special pujas, cultural activities, mass feeding, floral decorations, and dazzling lighting arrangements at the temple and along the riverbank,” he explained.

Several dignitaries, including the Ministers for Transport and Muzrai, the Koppal district In-charge Minister, senior government officials, the Commissioner of Religious Endowments, MPs, MLAs and other prominent leaders are expected to attend the celebrations.

The meeting was attended by Temple Executive Officer M. H. Prakash Rao, members of the Huligemma Temple Development Authority, local leaders, temple staff, and members of the Huligi Gram Panchayat.