Ugadi Over, Meat Rush Begins: Why Is Bengaluru Lining Up At 4 AM?

Last Updated:March 20, 2026, 12:28 IST

Along with mutton, there is also a strong demand for Nati Koli, or country chicken. Many people are opting for locally sourced chicken and eggs, especially during Hosatodaku.

Festive celebrations across Karnataka have spilled over into the next day of Ugadi, bringing with them a surge in demand for traditional food. After Ugadi was celebrated with enthusiasm, many people are now marking Hosatodaku, a day when families and friends gather to enjoy non-vegetarian meals together.

With Hosatodaku being observed today, meat shops across Bengaluru and nearby areas have seen heavy crowds since early morning. At the well-known Papanna Mutton Stall in Byatarayanapura, queues began forming as early as 4:00 AM, reflecting the scale of demand.

In several parts of the state, especially in rural areas, the demand for Gudde Maamsa, or shared meat, is particularly high. In Devanahalli, people have gathered in large numbers for Yaliyuru Gudde Maamsa, with visitors arriving from nearby places such as Chikkaballapura, Doddaballapura and Hosakote. Sheep and goats were reportedly slaughtered the previous night to meet the rush.

Prices Rise in Many Places

The spike in demand has also led to a price increase in some areas. Mutton that was earlier priced at Rs 800 per kg has risen to around Rs 1,000 per kg in certain shops. In Devanahalli and other parts of Bengaluru Rural district, long queues were seen outside non-vegetarian shops from early morning.

However, not all vendors have raised prices. At Papanna Mutton Stall, mutton is being sold at Rs 900 per kg, with the shop maintaining its regular pricing despite the festive demand. To manage the crowd, the stall opened early and is operating multiple counters to distribute meat.

Along with mutton, there is also a strong demand for Nati Koli, or country chicken. Many people are opting for locally sourced chicken and eggs, especially during Hosatodaku.

There is a noticeable preference for native varieties such as Nati and Jawari food over hybrid options. For many non-vegetarian consumers, Hosatodaku remains a key occasion to enjoy traditional meat-based dishes with family and friends.

Hosatodaku- A Local Festival

Hosatodaku, observed the day after Ugadi, marks a symbolic new beginning in many parts of Karnataka. While Ugadi is focused on rituals and traditional customs, Hosatodaku is more about gathering with family and friends over a hearty meal, especially non-vegetarian dishes like mutton and country chicken.

The day is seen as a way to start the year on a fuller, more social note, moving from ritual to celebration. It reflects a cultural shift from spiritual observance to community bonding, where food, togetherness and a sense of abundance take centre stage.