Devotees Injured During Trek to Deviramma Hill Temple in Chikkamagaluru Amid Deepavali Celebrations
Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, November 01: The annual pilgrimage to the Deviramma Hill Temple in Chikkamagaluru, held as part of Deepavali celebrations, took a challenging turn this year as several devotees sustained injuries while ascending the steep 3,000-foot hill. The trek, made more perilous by persistent rain, saw thousands of people braving the elements to seek the blessings of Goddess Bindiga Deviramma.
The Deviramma Hill Temple, located in Mallenahalli, holds a unique significance in the region. Open only once a year during Deepavali, it attracts devotees from across Karnataka, all eager to participate in traditional rituals believed to bring health and prosperity. These include offerings to the goddess and the ritualistic application of oil, butter, and ghee. Many families, including women and children, undertook the arduous journey through the thick forests and rocky paths of Manikyadhara and Arisinaguppe in the Bababudangiri range.
This year’s pilgrimage began under difficult conditions. Heavy rains, which had been lashing the region for days, made the steep climb treacherous. Despite the weather, thousands of devotees gathered, driven by their faith and the significance of the occasion. The temple, perched atop the hill, stood as a beacon of hope and devotion for those making the challenging ascent.
To manage the expected surge in visitors, the district administration and police had implemented a series of safety measures. Authorities were well aware of the dangers posed by the hill’s slippery and uneven terrain, especially with the expected crowds. They installed safety ropes at key points along the trail to assist pilgrims and reduce the risk of falls. Medical teams were stationed near the temple, and additional police personnel were deployed to control the crowds and ensure that the event passed without major incidents.
However, despite these precautions, the sheer number of people attempting the climb resulted in overcrowding, which contributed to the injuries reported. Some devotees slipped on the rain-soaked paths, while others struggled to navigate the steep inclines amidst the throngs of people. While most injuries were reported to be minor, authorities remained on high alert, prepared for more challenges as the festivities continued.
The district’s Deputy Commissioner had earlier issued guidelines urging devotees to proceed with caution, but the unwavering enthusiasm of the pilgrims and the weather conditions made crowd control difficult. According to officials, the number of visitors this year, though initially lower than in previous years, was expected to rise as the Deepotsava celebrations continued until November 3.
In past years, the pilgrimage has been a peaceful and joyous affair, drawing thousands to the temple for a unique spiritual experience. The temple’s annual opening is steeped in tradition, and many devotees view the trek as a test of their devotion. This year, however, the combination of rain and an influx of people pushed the event to its limits.
As the festival days progress, authorities are taking additional steps to manage the crowds and minimize further accidents. The temple committee has issued advisories for pilgrims to space out their visits and take precautions while making the climb. Additional volunteers have also been deployed along the route to assist those in need and guide pilgrims safely.
Despite the setbacks, the spirit of the devotees remains unshaken. Many believe that overcoming such obstacles is part of the spiritual experience, a testament to their faith in the goddess. As one pilgrim noted, “The journey may be difficult, but it is all worth it when we reach the temple and offer our prayers. This is something we do with our hearts full of devotion.”
With festivities extending over the next few days, the district administration continues to closely monitor the situation, ensuring that all safety protocols are followed. While the temple remains a focal point of devotion, the pilgrimage to Deviramma Hill has also become a reminder of the challenges faced by authorities in balancing tradition with safety.
As the Deepavali celebrations continue, both the temple and the devotees prepare for what remains a sacred and significant journey, one that is marked by faith, perseverance, and the hope of blessings from the goddess Bindiga Deviramma.
