The Yellamma Devi fair is one of the important fairs of Karnataka.  The popular fair is held on various occasions from October to February months but the credit of the largest fair owes to Margasheersha, which is held on the full moon day. The Shri Yellamma Devi Jatra is a major annual festival dedicated to the goddess Yellamma, primarily celebrated in the state of Karnataka, India. Yellamma, also known as Renuka, is worshipped as a deity who symbolizes fertility and prosperity. The festival typically involves a grand procession, devotional music, dance performances, and various rituals.

The Jatra is particularly significant in the village of Saundatti, where the Yellamma Temple is located. Pilgrims from various regions gather to participate in the festivities, seeking blessings and expressing their devotion. The festival usually takes place in October or November, but dates can vary.

The Shri Yellamma Devi Jatra is celebrated with great fervor and devotion. Here’s a glimpse of how the celebration typically unfolds:

  1. Processions: The festival often begins with a grand procession featuring decorated chariots carrying the idol of Goddess Yellamma. Devotees, dressed in traditional attire, participate in the procession, singing hymns and performing dances.

  2. Rituals and Offerings: Various rituals are performed at the Yellamma Temple. Devotees offer flowers, fruits, and other symbolic items to the goddess. Special prayers and ceremonies are conducted to seek blessings for prosperity and health.

  3. Cultural Performances: The festival features traditional music and dance performances. Folk dances, such as the Dollu Kunitha (a drum dance) and other local dance forms, are performed by groups of devotees.

  4. Community Feasts: Large communal meals are organized, where devotees gather to share food. This aspect of the celebration emphasizes community spirit and togetherness.

  5. Religious Discourses: Spiritual discourses and sermons by religious leaders are often a part of the festivities, offering devotees insights into the significance of the goddess and the festival.

  6. Fairs and Markets: Temporary markets or fairs set up around the temple offer a variety of goods, including religious artifacts, clothing, and food items.

The festival draws thousands of pilgrims and tourists, making it a vibrant and significant event in the region.

The Yellamma fair is organized in the honor of Yellamma Devi or Renuka, at the Yellamma Temple located at Saundatti in Belgaum district. The temple is located on the top of the Yellammagudda hill and is the shrine of Yellamma Devi or Renuka, wife of Sage Jamadagni.

The fair is very familiar among the Maharashtra, Andhra, Madhya Pradesh, and Goa states other than Karnataka as a large number of people visit the place to witness the fair on the full moon day of Margasira. The full moon day is also termed the Bharat Hunnime and is considered very auspicious and sacred.

The well-known Neeramanavi Yellamma Jatra is taken out in the fair of full moon day on the holy day of Bharat Hunnime. The goddess Yellamma is worshipped with all rituals and customs on this day in the form of Shakti Puja. The trend of becoming Devadasis or slaves of God is generally practiced during the Yellamma Devi fair.

During the Shri Yellamma Devi Jatra, several rituals are performed to honor the goddess and seek her blessings. Here are some of the key rituals typically observed:

  1. Abhishekam (Ritual Bathing): The idol of Goddess Yellamma is given a ceremonial bath with sacred liquids like milk, honey, and water. This ritual is meant to purify the deity and prepare her for worship.

  2. Aarti (Offering of Light): Devotees perform aarti by waving lighted lamps in front of the goddess’s idol. This is accompanied by devotional songs and chants. Aarti symbolizes the removal of darkness and the invocation of divine light.

  3. Homa (Fire Ritual): A home or fire ritual may be conducted where offerings are made into a sacred fire. This ritual is believed to purify the surroundings and invoke the blessings of the goddess.

  4. Pooja (Worship): Various forms of pooja are performed, including the offering of flowers, fruits, and sweets to the goddess. Devotees may also perform individual poojas, making personal offerings and prayers.

  5. Chanting and Recitations: Devotional chants, mantras, and hymns dedicated to Goddess Yellamma are recited. These prayers are believed to invoke the goddess’s blessings and protection.

  6. Processional Rituals: During the grand procession, the idol of Yellamma is carried through the streets in a decorated chariot. Devotees follow the procession, singing devotional songs and performing rituals along the way.

  7. Sacrificial Offerings: In some traditions, animal sacrifices are made as part of the rituals, though this practice may vary and is subject to local customs and regulations.

  8. Vows and Offerings: Devotees often make personal vows and offer special items to the goddess in gratitude for her blessings or in hope of fulfilling a wish.

Time for Celebration

The timing for the Shri Yellamma Devi Jatra can vary, but it is typically celebrated in October or November. The exact dates are determined according to the Hindu lunar calendar and may change from year to year.

The festival usually spans several days, with the main celebrations often occurring on the specific day dedicated to Goddess Yellamma. Pilgrims and devotees start arriving well before the main festivities, and the celebrations may continue for a few days, including rituals, processions, and cultural activities.

इस आर्टिकल को हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहां क्लिक करें

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