Where generosity is revered

Usually described as nomadic, Lamani (or Lambani) people are a common sight in north Karnataka and rarely seen in the southern part of the State except for the Hanagal-Sirsi-Shimoga belt, which is home for many Lamani Tandas (communes).

The story of a generous Lamani woman in Balur Tanda, where she is now worshipped in a temple, is now well-known. The Tanda has grown from being a nondescript village of 70 families to a small township of 200 families.

A turn along the Sirsi main road from Nakara cross on the way to Shimoga from Hanagal reveals a small road, a break in the enticing lush-green scenery, that leads to Balur Tanda. The known history of the town–running to around 70 years–suggests that today, the culture of the community has also evolved.

Lamanis worship nature – Mantrala, Pedama and Munedeva are the prime gods – apart from Sevalal, a half-historical, half-mythological figure. It is not surprising then that Balur Tanda should have a beautiful temple for worshipping these gods. Nor is it intriguing that the temple has the statue of one Hemappa, a fatherly figure whom the Lamanis remember for the service he has done to the community.

What is really curious is the relatively recent addition of the statue of one Hemalavva, a woman who gets from the Lamanis the same importance and devotion that is given to gods.

Lamanis do not find this elevation curious. They remember with gratitude how Hemalavva served their community.

Hemalavva was the third daughter of Kheerappa Lamani, who was well known in the community for his generosity and benevolence. She was married to multi-talented and large-hearted Ramappa Lamani, a local priest, who was also famous for his herbal medicines. Ramappa was always the friend in need for the people of the community.
Hemalavva quickly became famous for her sympathy and generosity.

Besides helping her husband in agriculture and other works, she was the backbone of the family. Hemalavva was also a good singer. Festive days witnessed elaborate poojas in Ramappa’s home, who, as the local priest set the tone of the religious fervour of the auspicious day.

People gathered in his house to witness the rituals and listen to Hemalavva’s singing and the traditional rangolis she drew.

She sang traditional Lamani songs which are part of the rich Lamani folklore. Singers in Lamani communities get a distinction that borders veneration. Hence, there was a huge demand for Hemalavva’s sincere and soulful voice during festive days. Honours and accolades followed the brief session of singing where the singer would be offered hospitality.

Hemalavva also aided the people who came seeking help. Very soon, her kind-heartedness made her the model woman in not only Balur but also the surrounding tandas. Hemalavva (55) died on June 29,1999. Popular demand, combined with her children’s respect, resulted in the consecration of Hemalavva’s statue in the temple built for Lamani gods.

There is also a plan to extend the temple project by adding a community hall with lodging facilities. More notably, the tanda people plan to build a park and develop social forestry: Projects which reflect the inclusiveness that Hemalavva stood for in her life.