Hassan: Revenue Minister and Hassan district in-charge Krishna Byre Gowda clarified that the Hassanamba Temple belongs to the public, not to VIPs, adding that the restriction on special darshan for dignitaries this year allowed more devotees to have a peaceful darshan.
Speaking to the media before the closing of the temple doors for this year’s annual festival, Byre Gowda said, “Over 25 lakh devotees have taken darshan of Goddess Hassanamba this year. The arrangements ensured that everyone got the opportunity without any inconvenience. The temple is not a VIP property — it belongs to the people.”
He praised the district administration and local representatives for the smooth and systematic management of the Hassanamba Jatra Mahotsava, which, he said, has enhanced the district’s reputation. “Even when the Chief Minister visited, darshan for the public was not halted. This shows the government’s commitment to ensuring equal access for all devotees,” he said.
The minister revealed that nearly Rs 20 crore revenue was generated through tickets and laddoo sales, while around 24 to 25 lakh devotees visited during the festival.
The temple doors opened on October 9 and will be closed on October 23. This year witnessed record footfall from across Karnataka and other parts of the country, marking one of the most successful and well-managed Hassanamba festivals in recent years.
