Century Old Festival observed in Benakatti, Karnataka.

The centuries-old Kichadi Jatre held in Benakatti village of Bagalkote district offered a vibrant glimpse into the region’s enduring agrarian culture and unity, as villagers celebrated the festival with traditional fervour during the auspicious ‘Ashada season’.

Women dressed in traditional North Karnataka attire (pataka kambali) were seen preparing kichadi in their courtyards, carrying the offering in pots on their heads, and presenting it as naivedya to the local deity. The blessed food was then distributed to devotees as prasada in front of the temple, reinforcing the community’s deep spiritual connection.

Locals reaffirmed the entire village participates in the celebrations, which mark the completion of a year in the agricultural cycle. Every household cooks kichadi, and prayers and offerings are made to seek the blessings of Lord Venkateshwara. Many who work or live in distant places return home to be part of this unique occasion.

“This festival has been observed from the time of our ancestors, and has now continued for more than 250 years,” said a villager, emphasising the Jatre’s historical and cultural significance. “It is not just about tradition, it’s about unity and gratitude for the harvest”.

Farmers offer part of their produce as part of the ritual, underscoring the close link between agricultural life and spiritual practice. Despite the march of modernity, Benakatti’ s Kichadi Jatre remains a living testament to the strength of community, faith, and tradition in rural North Karnataka.

The event, locals say, symbolises the identity of the village, affectionately known as the “Republic of Bagalkote,” nestled between the rivers Sindhu and Uttara Kaveri.

Team Maverick