BLR Habba 2026 opens with drumbeats and a call for unity

CM Siddaramaiah opened BLR Habba 2026 with drumbeats, urging unity and Kannada learning. The 20‑day fest spans 30+ venues, 150+ events, 800 artistes

Bengaluru witnessed a vibrant start to BLR Habba 2026 on Friday evening as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah struck the traditional Dollu and Nagari drums on the grand steps of the Vidhana Soudha. The seat of administration transformed into a stage of rhythm and colour, marking the beginning of a cultural extravaganza designed to connect the city’s global tech identity with its rich heritage.

In his address, Siddaramaiah invoked the teachings of Basavanna and Sufi saints, urging citizens to embrace Manushyatva—the essence of humanity beyond caste and religion. “We are all humans first. Our birth is accidental, and death is certain. What we do in between matters most,” he said. He emphasized that Bengaluru’s 1.4 crore residents, regardless of origin, should learn Kannada to integrate more deeply into the spirit of the land.

Organised by the Department of Kannada and Culture in partnership with private organisations including the Unboxing BLR Foundation, the festival spans 20 days, with a concentrated 10‑day peak of major events. Secretary C J Manjunath announced that over 30 locations—from Freedom Park to Malleswaram and Whitefield—will host 150+ programmes, ranging from Thindi Habba (food festival) to Nataka Hubba (theatre) and Rasthe Hubba (street performances). More than 800 artistes, including local folk troupes and international performers, are set to participate.

Also Read: GBA elections: Election Commission calls key meeting after Supreme Court deadline

The inaugural ceremony drew prominent figures such as actor Shivarajkumar, veteran actress Jayamala, Legislative Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti, Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh, and civic leaders including Prashanth Prakash of Accel and Ravichandran of Aspak Foundation.

The highlight of the evening was the Namma Jaatre procession, featuring tableaux and folk performances of Veeragase, Kamsale, and Yakshagana. The spectacle turned Bengaluru’s heart into a living museum of Karnataka’s traditions, setting the tone for a city‑wide celebration that blends culture, community, and creativity.

Also Read: Dhanush-Mrunal Thakur wedding buzz: Valentine’s Day date sparks fresh speculation