No funds released for Madikeri Dasara

The countdown has begun for the historic Madikeri Dasara, but not even a penny has been released towards the building of the ‘Dashamantapas’ (tableau) by the government, Madikeri Dasara Dashamantapa Committee chairman Ravikumar charged on Thursday.

He told reporters that a decision on organising the Dasara in a simple manner will be decided only after the government releases funds. “A minimum of Rs 5 to Rs 7 lakh is needed for the preparation of Dashamantapas. The state government should clarify its stand on releasing funds,” he urged.

According to preliminary discussions on the celebrations, 10 Dashamantapas will take part in the Dasara procession. The traditional rituals leading to Dasara will begin from October 10. As Karaga Utsava of four Shakti Devatas needs to be conducted, the government should release funds within the next three days, he urged.

Ravi Kumar said as the state government intends to release Rs 25 crore for Mysuru Dasara, an amount of Rs 1 crore should be released towards Madikeri Dasara. In the aftermath of floods and landslides, it was decided not to collect donations from the public. Donations will be accepted only if devotees offer them voluntarily, he said.

Former president of Mantapa Committee R T Ravi said that Madikeri Dasara has a history of around 200 years. Every Mantapa Committee will spend Rs 25 to Rs 30 lakh on each Mantapa, which is the highlight of the Dasara procession, he added.

Dasara Mantapa Committee Secretary Vishwanath, office-bearers Rakshit, Prasanna and Satish were also present.