Vijayanagara district is all set to host the grand three-day Hampi Utsav, one of Karnataka’s most significant cultural events. However, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is unlikely to attend, with Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan stating that his presence will depend on medical advice.
Preparations are in full swing, with 80,000 chairs arranged and four entry points set up for smooth access. Security is tight, with 3,000 police personnel deployed and over 500 CCTV cameras installed.
The festival will feature six stages, including the prominent MP Prakash stage at Gayatri Mantapa, which will host Mahanavami Dibba for the first time. Minister Zameer Khan recently reviewed the final arrangements, ensuring a seamless experience for attendees.
Over 5,000 artists from across the country will perform, including Kannada film stars Ramesh Arvind, Ramya, and Upendra. The district administration has also arranged ten ambulances, drinking water at 50 locations, a helpline desk, and a temporary police station near the main stage.