World-famous Bengaluru Karaga to be held on April 1, grand celebrations planned

Preliminary meeting chaired by Muzrai Minister Ramalinga Reddy finalises date, responsibilities, lighting, cultural events, and management structure for the 2026 Bengaluru Karaga festival.

The Karnataka government has officially announced that the world-famous Bengaluru Karaga festival will be celebrated on April 1, 2026. The decision was taken during a high-level preliminary meeting chaired by Muzrai Minister Ramalinga Reddy, focusing on the planning, management, and execution of the historic event.

The meeting brought together senior officials from the Muzrai Department, Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), Dharmaraya Swamy Temple Management Committee, temple priests, and heads of more than 20 departments. The discussion covered all aspects of the festival, including administration, safety, logistics, cultural programmes, lighting arrangements, and financial responsibilities.

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Minister Ramalinga Reddy stated that this year’s Karaga would be conducted on a grand scale. As per tradition, Jnanendra will once again carry the sacred Karaga. He also announced the appointment of Chalakere Narayanaswamy as the new President of the Dharmaraya Swamy Temple Management Committee, with a total of eight members, including priests.

Addressing previous allegations of corruption in festival management, the minister clarified that responsibilities have now been clearly divided. The Muzrai Department will handle all arrangements inside the temple, while the GBA will take charge of all external arrangements, including lighting, infrastructure, and public facilities. The Central City Corporation Commissioner, Cholan, will oversee coordination at the civic level.

To enhance the festival’s grandeur, the authorities have decided to introduce Mysuru Dasara-style decorative lighting across key locations such as Hudson Circle, Mysore Bank Circle, and major market areas. The GBA will invite tenders, allocate work, and clear payments for these arrangements. Cultural programmes inspired by the Mysuru Dasara model will also be organised, with police instructed to identify suitable venues.

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The Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister are expected to attend the event. Financial responsibilities will be shared, with the Muzrai Department managing temple expenses and the GBA handling external costs through separate budgeting and billing processes.

Officials confirmed that the community committee will decide all religious aspects, including who will carry the Karaga, ensuring that traditions are preserved while conducting the festival smoothly and transparently.