Member of royal family, Narasimharaja cut the tree bearing ‘Banni’ leaves marking the beginning of the festival. Speaking on the occasion, Narasimharaja elaborated on the tradition and also the significance of opening of the celebrations, and termed as a practice followed since last 300 years.
“We have been keeping this tradition alive since last 19 years, using the sword which is over three centuries old. The government has not shown any regard towards us for preserving this. If this attitude continues, we will stop this practice,” said Narasimharaja’s mother Nagaratna. Prior to this, people offered prayers to the idols of Virupaksha Swamy, Anjaneya, Soumya Keshava, Mailara Lingeshwara and Veerabhadra at the Banni Mantap.
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