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Hassan (Karnataka), October 9 (IANS) The doors of Hasanamba temple, which is opened for devotees once a year, were opened on Thursday.
Thousands of devotees were eagerly waiting for the darshan of Hasanamba, not only from different parts of the state but also from other states.
The doors of the sanctum sanctorum were opened after traditional rituals and ceremonies.
On this occasion, Nirmalanandanath Swamiji of Adichunchanagiri Math, Siddalinga Swami of Siddhaganga Math in Tumkuru, District Incharge Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, Congress MLA HP Swaroop Prakash and Congress MP Shreyas Patel were present.
Last year, the Hasanamba fair was held from 24 October to 3 November.
During this period, more than 20 lakh devotees visited Hasanamba.
The doors of the sanctum sanctorum, which were closed on November 3 last year, were opened on Thursday.
More than 25 lakh devotees are expected to come this year.
Every year, during the inauguration of the temple in October, devotees come to seek blessings from Goddess Hasanamba.
The temple follows a strict tradition of closure, and when it closes its doors, certain rituals ensure that the divine presence remains undisturbed.
Two bags of rice, fresh flowers, water and a continuously burning ghee lamp are offered to the deities.
Notably, the lamps are expected to remain lit during the entire period of closure of the temple till next year.
The flowers offered to the idol of the goddess will remain fresh.
From October 9 to October 23, except the last three days, the temple will be open for devotees to visit for a total of 13 days.
Last year more than 20 lakh devotees had come to the temple and this year more than 25 lakh devotees are expected to come.
The district administration has made special arrangements for the devotees.
Hasanamba Temple in Hassan is believed to be a unique Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Hasanamba, who is the incarnation of Goddess Shakti.
Unlike most temples, which are open throughout the year, this temple opens its doors to devotees only once a year – for just a week in the month of Diwali.
Many devotees consider themselves lucky if they get a chance to visit the temple during the brief period when it is open.
–IANS
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