a day ago
After a decade, Mahalakshmi fair returns to Gokak with fanfare
Belagavi: After a gap of 10 years, the vibrant and much-awaited Mahalakshmi fair, also known as Mahalakshmi Devi Rathotsava, is set to make a grand return to Gokak from June 30. Anticipating a turnout of lakhs of devotees over the 10-day event, Belagavi district administration has put in place extensive arrangements to ensure smooth conduct, security, and public safety.
In light of the anticipated crowd and potential traffic congestion, deputy commissioner Mohammad Roshan has declared a holiday for all anganwadis, schools, and colleges in Gokak town from June 30 to July 8. These premises will also serve as temporary accommodations for police and personnel from other departments deployed for the fair.
To coordinate various aspects of the fair, the district administration has formed multiple committees tasked with responsibilities ranging from crowd management and transportation to sanitation and event organisation.
Special attention is being given to the chariot festival scheduled on July 2 and 3, which draws the largest gathering. DC Roshan has directed officials to implement crowd control measures to avoid any untoward incidents such as stampedes.
In addition to the chariot procession, other major attractions like the bullock cart race, horse cart race, and cycle race are expected to draw crowds. DC Roshan has emphasised the need for timely dissemination of public information regarding drinking water, mobile toilets, transportation services, and emergency contacts.
Display boards and media broadcasts will be used to keep the public informed.
To manage VIP darshan requests, an officer will be appointed to handle entries strictly as per protocol, with permissions only granted on the recommendation of the temple secretary.
Given the tradition of devotees bathing in the Ghataprabha River during the fair, safety precautions are being intensified. "I instructed the Gokak City Municipal Council commissioner to install safety ropes and barricades along the riverside and to provide sufficient life jackets for emergencies," said DC Roshan. Superintendent of police Bhimashankar Guled confirmed that SDRF and fire department personnel will be deployed near the river for rescue readiness.
Furthermore, the administration has imposed a ban on liquor sales and the use of chemically mixed bhandara (holy turmeric powder) during the fair to maintain sanctity and public order.
