Deputy Commissioner M S Diwakar visited Gayatri Peetha, Guthi parking area, and other key locations on February 12 to review the arrangements for the Hampi Utsav 2025. He instructed officials to ensure smooth public access and proper vehicle parking for attendees.
Preparations for Hampi Utsav, a celebration that will showcase the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire, officially began on Wednesday. Deputy Commissioner M S Diwakar inspected the site near Gayatri Peetha, where the main stage will be constructed.
In a statement to reporters, Diwakar shared that the district administration has initiated preparations for the event. A stage symbolizing the glory of the Vijayanagara Empire will be built, and a Bengaluru-based company has already awarded the contract for its construction.
Mass Yoga Event
He also announced a mass yoga event, planned for the morning of the second day at the Vijaya Vitthal Temple premises. Additionally, an amateur bike rally from Bengaluru to Hampi will be organized to promote the festival.
The Hampi Utsav will officially begin on February 27, with a Vasanth Vaibhav procession in Hosapete City. On the same day, the Tungarati will take place by the Tunga River near the Virupaksha Temple in Hampi.
Inauguration by CM
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will inaugurate the festival, and preparations are underway to finalize a list of film actors and national and international artists. Popular performers, including contestants from India’s Got Talent, will be invited. Diwakar added that honorariums have already been provided to all artists who participated in the previous kavigoshti.
Exhibition Stall Rentals
This year, exhibition stall rentals have been set at Rs 3,000, with a request from writers to hold a Kavigoshti in Hosapete. However, the Deputy Commissioner confirmed that it would take place in Hampi, as it aligns better with the festival’s theme.
Transport Arrangements
For the first day of the Utsav, free transportation will be provided from various villages in the district. A total of 250 special buses will operate, with 45 buses running between Hosapete and Hampi for the following two days. Additional buses will also be available from Kampli.
Seating Arrangements
To accommodate visitors, 70,000 seats will be arranged near the main stage at Gayatri Peetha, with 50,000 in front of the stage and 20,000 around it. Parallel stages will be set up at Basavanna Mantap, Virupaksha Temple, and near Sasive Kalu Ganapa Mantap, with more than 10,000 seats available. Renowned artists will perform classical and folk arts on these stages, Diwakar confirmed.