Hassanamba temple festival from October 9 to 23; AI, drones and strict VIP rules this year
Hassanamba Temple Festival: The countdown has begun for the grand annual Hassanamba darshan festival, one of Karnataka‘s most awaited religious events.
The district administration has completed all preparations for the celebrations, which will take place from October 9 to 23, with public darshan open from October 10 to 22, District In-charge Minister Krishna Byregowda announced on Sunday.
Addressing reporters after a review meeting with local representatives, the minister said that the first and last days of the festival will be reserved for rituals, and the administration expects around 25 lakh devotees to visit Hassanamba temple this year. “We will issue 1,000 passes per day to manage the crowd,” he said.
Strict VIP protocol:
VIP darshan will be allowed only between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. each day, after which the VIP gate will be closed. “VIPs should come only with their immediate family. Those bringing more people will have to join the general queue. There will be no VIP darshan during the last two days,” Byregowda clarified.
Top dignitaries such as the Governor, Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, former Prime Ministers, and the Chief Justice can visit the temple directly, while other public representatives and VIPs must report to the Hassan Inspection Bungalow (IB) and will be escorted from there.
Cultural and tourism attractions:
The festival will feature three stages for cultural programs, with special emphasis on folk art performances and local talent showcases. This year’s event will also introduce heli-tourism for the first time, offering devotees an aerial view of Hassan. A local handicrafts exhibition will be organized to promote women’s empowerment and local artisans.
Tech-enabled security and crowd control:
To ensure safety and smooth movement, the administration is deploying AI-based surveillance and drone monitoring. Around 250 CCTV cameras with facial and head-counting technology will be installed, and 2,000 police personnel will be stationed across the city. A central control room will monitor real-time crowd activity.
Ticketing and crowd management:
This year, entry tickets will be priced at Rs 300 and Rs1,000. The minister said that last year’s heavy demand for special passes led to complaints, prompting stricter controls this time. “Devotees should not be made to lose patience; hence, the distribution of passes will be limited and regulated,” he said.
With religious fervor, technological precision, and cultural vibrancy, Hassan is preparing for a seamless and secure Hassanamba Utsav 2025, expected to draw lakhs of devotees from across Karnataka and beyond.
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