Spiritual preparations begin before Dornahalli Jathre at St Anthony’s Basilica

Mysuru: Every year, the tranquil village of Dornahalli in KR Nagar taluk, transforms into a vibrant centre of faith, devotion and cultural unity as thousands of pilgrims converge for the renowned Dornahalli Jathre, the annual feast of St Anthony's Basilica.

Scheduled to be held on June 13 this year, the centuries-old festival has evolved into one of Karnataka's most significant Christian pilgrimages, attracting devotees from across the country. Preparations are in full swing at St Anthony's Basilica, where more than one lakh devotees are expected to participate in the celebrations. According to Rev Fr Praveen Pedru, administrator of St Anthony's Basilica, spiritual preparations began on June 5, with the commencement of the nine-day novena prayers.

Celebrations were formally inaugurated by Rev Dr Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of Mysuru. "The feast attracts people from all walks of life. Devotees from different religions, castes and communities visit the Basilica to seek blessings and offer prayers. More than one lakh pilgrims are expected this year," Fr Pedru said.

Highlight of the feast will be the solemn Holy Mass at 10am on June 13, followed by special prayers and devotional services. Thousands of devotees arrive carrying vows and petitions, while many return every year to offer thanksgiving after experiencing what they believe are the blessings and answered prayers through the intercession of St Anthony.

The shrine's history stretches back nearly 250 years. Recognising its spiritual significance and documented accounts of blessings and miracles, the Vatican conferred upon the church the status of a Minor Basilica.

Karnataka has only four basilicas, making Dornahalli one of the state's most revered Christian pilgrimage centres. The annual jathre also provides a major boost to the local economy. Temporary stalls selling food, toys, household goods, handicrafts and religious articles create a festive atmosphere and generate livelihood opportunities for local residents.

Among the many devotees attending the feast is Rose Mary from Tirupati, who has visited Dornahalli for more than four decades. "We have been coming here for more than 40 years. Whatever we pray for gets fulfilled. We return every year to offer thanksgiving and seek blessings," she said.