The state government will organise the Hampi Utsav on February 13, 14 and 15. To ensure smooth conduct of the festival, District Minister BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan has directed Deputy Commissioner Kavita S. Mannikeri to take necessary steps. Following this, the DC has held a series of meetings with officials and instructed them to complete preparations on priority, including coordination with key departments such as the police.
The festival was earlier scheduled to be held on February 27, 28 and March 1, but has now been advanced to mid-February. The Hampi Utsav was originally founded by late minister MP Prakash, who had fixed November 3, 4 and 5 as the annual dates. These dates later changed with successive governments. Zameer, who has overseen two previous editions as district minister, has directed officials to organise the third edition on a grand scale.
According to DC Kavita S. Mannikeri, applications have been invited from artistes and troupes interested in presenting cultural programmes and participating in processions. Artists and organisations from within the district, other districts and other states are eligible to apply by January 20. Those working in government, semi-government and aided institutions must submit applications along with permission letters from the competent authority.
Meanwhile, a competition has also been announced to design a new logo for Hampi Utsav–2026, with the winning entry to be awarded a prize by the district administration.