Convergence of religion, culture, trade, ecology. Gowrammana Jathre, an annual celebration in Dodda Ullarthi could be on its last leg, thanks to scientific, nuclear projects near Amrith Mahal Kaval.
The threat posed to Amrith Mahal grasslands by scientific and nuclear projects being planned in the area has permeated through the region to affect an annual traditional festival.
This year could well be the last for Dodda Ullarthi Gowrammana Jathre, an annual celebration of the village deity of Dodda Ullarthi, which presents an opportunity to experience authentic village culture near Challakere in Chitradurga district. Sunday, which happens to be a full moon day, will mark the commencement of this colourful event that pays homage to the glory and power of Gauramma, the goddess of the land. The celebration will end on November 21.
“The mythical experience of the ancestors of this land is that three Kanya Devatheyaru, or virgin deities, visited the land and asked for a place to establish goodness. The locals who offered their land were blessed with the presence of the goddess herself,” says Manohar Patel, who travels 100km every year to attend the ritual.
“We wait for this event because we can meet our sisters who have been married off,” he adds.
While the jathre is a religious and spiritual experience for many, it is also a trade forum for the rest. Hundreds of artisans, craftsmen, farmers and traders from neighbouring villages exhibit and sell their products during the celebration.
“From handicrafts, pots and the renowned Challakere Kambli (blankets oven from wool of the Challakere sheep) to cattle, vegetables and sweets, visitors will witness a hive of trade,” says Karianna of the same village.
“With the Union government taking over the kaval for setting up research and defence activities, only the goddess can save this land. We don’t know if our grassland will survive until next year’s celebration,” says an apprehensive Patel.
To ecologist Jahnavi Pai, this celebration holds environmental significance. “The irreversible effect on local communities and biodiversity is a problem that demands attention. This celebration that brings thousands of people together can serve as a web, through which the cultural, ecological, religious and economical relevance of the land can be understood,” she explains.
Significance of this year’s celebration
Exhibits essence of village culture and traditions of Karnataka
Sets up a platform for trading handicrafts, pots, blankets, cattle and agricultural produce for thousands of people
Provides a wholesome experience of rural culture with orchestras, dramas and folk dance forms
Could be the last celebration owing to threat of destruction of the grassland that supports the economy.
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