Dharwad gears up for Holi festivities

Caption: The idols of Kamanna and Rati installed at Bhuspet in Dharwad. (TOI)Dharwad: The city has come alive with colour, rhythm and tradition as preparations peak for Holi. Idols of Kamanna (Kama) and Rati have been installed across several localities, drawing enthusiastic crowds and setting the stage for one of the most vibrant celebrations of the year.In neighbourhood after neighbourhood, children gather in makeshift tents erected before the idols, beating the traditional halagi (leather drum) and dancing to festive tunes. The atmosphere is charged with excitement as residents of all ages throng the venues to catch a glimpse of the beautifully adorned deities.Popularly known as the festival of spring, colours and love, Holi marks the triumph of good over evil and the onset of a new season. Religious rituals associated with Holi Hunnime were observed on Tuesday. The ceremonial burning of Kamanna's effigies is scheduled for the early hours of Wednesday, symbolising the victory of virtue. The ritual will be followed by the customary splashing of colours, a highlight eagerly awaited by revellers.Adding to the festive fervour, supporters of BJP MLA Arvind Bellad have organised rain dance programmes and pot-breaking competitions on LIC Road, with banners across the city inviting public participation. Similarly, supporters of Dharwad Rural MLA Vinay Kulkarni are hosting celebrations at Shivaji Circle, ensuring that the spirit of Holi resonates across the city.In the wake of recent communal disturbances in Bagalkot, police have heightened security arrangements. Peace committee meetings have been convened, and authorities have appealed to citizens to uphold harmony during the festivities. Officials have also warned of strict action against anyone attempting to disrupt public order.Meanwhile, anticipating a possible temporary ban on the sale and consumption of liquor during Holi, many residents have reportedly stocked up in advance, determined to celebrate the festival in high spirits.BOX Bhoospet Kamanna: A 153-year-old legacyWhile Kamanna and Rati idols are installed in many parts of the city, those at Bhoospet (Bhoosgalli) and Kamanakatti hold special significance, attracting thousands of visitors annually for over 153 years.Located in Mangalawar Pet, Bhoospet is home to striking wooden idols crafted more than a century and a half ago. The Kamanna idol stands 6.5 feet tall and 6 feet wide, while Rati measures 5 feet in height and 3 feet in width. Carefully preserved through generations, the idols are dismantled, wrapped in cloth and stored safely each year before being reassembled for installation.Kamanna is adorned in a silk dhoti and shirt, complemented by a shawl and garlands made of sugar and fresh flowers. Rati is draped in a silk saree and blouse, embellished with ornaments and similar sugar garlands. The sugar garlands are traditionally donated by the Hurakadli family, recalls social activist Uday Yandigeri.