Kodagu DySP Injured During Chaos at Madikeri Dasara; Arrest Made

Madikeri Dasara stage event at Gandhi Maidan — Photo courtesy: PV

Madikeri: Madikeri witnessed tense moments in the early hours of October 3 when Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) P. A. Suraj sustained injuries amid unrest during the Madikeri Dasara festivities in Kodagu district.

The incident unfolded at Gandhi Maidan, where a massive crowd had gathered for the Dashamantapa prize distribution ceremony following the grand procession. A section of the audience stormed the stage, objecting to what they alleged was bias in the selection of winners.

As police personnel attempted to bring the situation under control, an individual allegedly pushed the DySP from the stage, causing him to fall and suffer serious injuries. Kodagu Superintendent of Police K. Ramarajan confirmed that Suraj was rushed to a hospital. “He has sustained a head injury and a deep cut on his leg. Treatment is underway,” Ramarajan said.

Police identified the accused as a man named Yakshit, who was immediately taken into custody. Authorities stated that he will be booked under Sections 132 and 355 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023. The Superintendent of Police further explained that disputes over prize distribution had arisen in earlier years as well. “We had advised organisers to avoid controversy by recognising all mantapas, but the recommendation was not followed,” Ramarajan added.

Meanwhile, in Gonikoppa, the celebrations turned disorderly around midnight after officials ordered the suspension of DJ music systems installed at some mantapas. Angered by the sudden halt, revellers staged protests on the streets. The ban on music continued between 1:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. However, after daybreak, DJ music was resumed, drawing large groups once again to dance in front of the mantapas. Vehicular entry into the town centre remained restricted, and some mantapas had still not returned to their bases by morning.

Madikeri Dasara is regarded as one of the most famous festivals of Kodagu and ranks second in Karnataka after Mysuru Dasara. The tradition dates back more than a century to the period of Kodagu’s rulers, when it was celebrated with devotion and community participation. The highlight of the event is the night-long procession of 10 richly decorated mantapas, each depicting mythological stories with illuminated idols, music, and dance. Over time, the festival has grown into a cultural spectacle that attracts visitors from across Karnataka and neighbouring states.