Belagavi: The border city of Belagavi came alive at the stroke of midnight on Friday as thousands of Kannada lovers gathered at Rani Chennamma Circle to welcome Karnataka Rajyotsava with unparalleled enthusiasm. The entire area resonated with chants of “Jai Karnataka” and “Rani Chennamma ki Jai,” as fireworks lit up the night sky and red-and-yellow flags fluttered proudly.
As the clock struck twelve, loud cheers filled the air, marking the beginning of the 2025 Rajyotsava festivities. The celebration, which began around 10 p.m., saw an overwhelming turnout of locals who danced to the beats of Kannada DJ music, sang patriotic songs, and displayed their pride in being Kannadigas. Traffic came to a standstill in all directions as the circle overflowed with jubilant crowds.
The Karnataka Rakshana Vedike and other Kannada organizations played a major role in organizing the event, which included a grand fireworks show that left the crowd mesmerized. Rani Chennamma Circle, adorned with colorful lights, became the heart of celebration — a symbol of unity and cultural pride for the border district.
As the fireworks illuminated the night, chants like “Yarappa andu enayitu — Belagavi namdaaytu!” (No matter what, Belagavi belongs to us!) and “Prana kottu Belagavi bidolla” (We will give our lives, but never give up Belagavi) echoed through the air. The emotions of love and pride for Karnataka filled every corner of the city.
The celebration was not just for the youth; men, women, children, and elders all joined in the revelry. The song “Takkadere huddu beku Kannada naduve huddu beku” (If born, let it be in Kannada land) was sung in unison by the crowd, symbolizing the deep emotional bond people share with their state.
Police were deployed in large numbers to manage the heavy crowd and ensure safety, while volunteers from various Kannada groups helped maintain order. Despite the dense gathering, the spirit of brotherhood and joy prevailed throughout the night.
Belagavi, often seen as the torchbearer of Kannada pride in the border region, once again reaffirmed its cultural spirit. The sight of thousands waving the red-and-yellow flags, dancing to Kannada beats, and shouting slogans of unity served as a reminder that Karnataka Rajyotsava is not just a day of celebration, but a festival of identity and pride.
As dawn approached, the city still buzzed with energy — proving that for Belagavi, Kannada pride never sleeps.
