B'luru Karaga brings different religions together, spreads peace

Nagaresh .V | NT

Bengaluru: The Bengaluru Karaga, a symbol of peace and harmony, is a tradition that starts with Sri Dharmaraya Swamy Temple in Nagarthpet and includes a visit to the Hazrat Tawakkal Mastan Dargah to spread its message of unity and harmony in this culturally diverse society.

It further creates counter-attacks of major political party' message 'Us vs. Them.'

Bengaluru's significant annual event, 'Karaga Sakyotsava,' started last Monday.

The main event of the Thigala community and symbol of Hindu-Muslim unity, 'Hoovina Karaga,' is on Tuesday night at Sri Dharmaraya Swamy Temple.

The flower cultivators and gardeners called Thigalas traditionally practised and performed Bengaluru Karaga.

The Thigala community traditionally worships the calm Draupadi who turns to furious Adi-shakti on the Pournami of the Chaitra masa (the first full moon day as per the Hindu calendar).

To meet her promise, she visits her devotees for three days a year. Hence, the first day of her visit is celebrated as Haiskaraga, and the third day of her visit to earth is celebrated as Hoovina karaga, which not only marks the Grandeur Karaga Shakaytosava but also builds a better bond between Muslims and Hindus.

Bengaluru Karaga is a tradition where a Karaga Poojari (main Karaga priest), the only person who is selected to balance the Hoovina Karaga (mud pot) weighing around 15-20 kgs on the head and forging ahead without touching it.

Moreover, Hoovina Karaga will be covered by red fabric and decorated with Jasmine flowers because it is believed that it was the only flower brought by Bheema to Draupadi over other Pandavas when she demanded it.

So, the historical Karaga will visit many religious institutions across eight directions, including the Hazrat Tawakkal Mastan Dargah at Cottonpet. Visiting Dargah not only preserves Karnataka's rich heritage but also seeds peace and harmony amongst the Kannadigas, irrespective of their religion.

In the future, Karaga will also stand still as an event of hope and peace for humanity,