Virajpet's 160-Year-Old Ganesha Festival: A Grand Tradition

The Ganapathy Temple was constructed by Ramaswami Pillai and his wife Nagamma Pillai, traders from Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, who settled in Virajpet for business. Photo Courtesy: Biddappa CA

Virajpet: While the Dasara celebrations in Madikeri in Kodagu are renowned throughout Karnataka, the Ganesha festival in Virajpet is equally famous in the district. This cherished festival has been celebrated for more than 160 years, centring around the historical Ganapathy Temple located in the heart of Virajpet town. The temple, which stands near the iconic Clock Tower, is a focal point for the vibrant Ganesha festivities.

According to the temple management, the tradition of celebrating the Ganesha festival began with the installation of a Ganesha idol, which is later immersed in the town's sacred pond, known as Gowri Kere. This ritual, part of the Ganesha Chaturthi celebrations, has been a time-honoured custom in Virajpet.

The History of Virajpet’s Ganapathy Temple, Constructed in 1855

The Ganapathy Temple was constructed by Ramaswami Pillai and his wife Nagamma Pillai, traders from Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, who settled in Virajpet for business. The temple, believed to have been built around 1855, became the centre of religious and cultural life in the town. With a history spanning over 160 years, the temple's celebration of the Ganesha festival has grown in prominence, spreading beyond the temple grounds and throughout the town.

Ramaswami Pillai and his wife Nagamma Pillai, traders from Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, were the founders of the Ganapathy Temple in Virajpet.

The festival now sees participation from the entire town, with 22 Ganesha idols placed in pandals across various locations. These idols are kept for 11 days, during which cultural programmes are held nightly, and the streets are adorned with vibrant lighting displays. The town’s devotion is reflected in the grand scale of the festival, which brings people together in celebration and prayer.

The Ganapathy Temple, managed by a trust, underwent renovations a few years ago. It was restored in the Dravidian architectural style, making it one of the most prominent temples in the Virajpet region. The temple’s significance has only grown over the years, drawing devotees and visitors alike, especially during the Ganesha festival.

Eleven Days of Festivities and a Grand Finale Procession

Starting from September 17 each year, the festival includes cultural events, music performances, and the Annadana Seva (free meals) organised by various local groups. The town comes alive with these festivities, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The sanctum sanctorum of the Ganapathy Temple in Virajpet, beautifully decorated for the Ganesha Festival. File Photo/Courtesy: Nikesh Poojary

The culmination of the festival occurs on the 11th day when all the Ganesha idols are immersed in Gowri Kere. The immersion is preceded by a grand procession through the main roads of Virajpet, with devotees singing, dancing, and offering prayers. This finale is a spectacle of colour, music, and devotion, bringing the town together in unity and celebration.

The Gowri-Ganesha festival in Virajpet continues to thrive, preserving the traditions of over a century and offering a glimpse into the rich cultural fabric of Kodagu.

To advertise on The Kodagu Express website, kindly give us a call or WhatsApp at 9108795369

Join The Kodagu Express WhatsApp Group: CLICK HERE 

Follow us on Instagram and X(Twitter)