T Narsipur all set for triennial Kumbh Mela from Feb 17

Preparations have started for the three-day 11th Kumbha Mela, scheduled to start on February 17 at Triveni Sangama, the confluence of rivers Cauvery, Kapila and Spatika Sarovara (lake) here.

National Highway 212 passes through the town, which is 35 km from the city. District incharge Minister G T Devegowda, who inspected the works under progress to host the religious and spiritual event on Tuesday, said Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy has already held two meetings in Suttur and Adichunchanagiri with people’s representatives and officials in this regard.

He said the chief minister is bent on making the event a success and has issued necessary directions to the officials. “The chief minister has asked the officials to execute permanent development works as far as possible in the town and at Triveni Sangama. Temporary bridges to two islands at the confluence of rivers from the side of Agasthyeshwara temple have been laid. There is a proposal for the construction of a permanent bridge from Gunja Narasimhaswamy temple side to Agasthyeshwara temple side,” he said.

The minister said seers Thiruchi Swami of Kailasashrama, Balagangadharanatha Swami of Adichunchanagiri Mutt, Shivaratri Deshikendra Swami of Suttur Mutt, Ganapathi Sachchidananda Sawmi of Avadootha Peetha and Shivapuri Swami of Omkara Ashrama came together in 1989 to start Kumbh Mela here. “Since then, it is being held once in three years. Over the years the mela is gaining popularity. This year, 10 lakh devotees are expected over three days,” he said.

He said there is a proposal to lay a road to Rudra Pada point on the banks of River Cauvery at a cost of Rs 30 crore. “Over 200 changing rooms, an equal number of temporary toilets, drinking water facility, etc, will be provided at various venues for the convenience of the devotees. Bus facilities are being made available by the KSRTC,” he said.

Devegowda said officials have been directed to illuminate all temples, buildings and streets in the town on the lines of Mysuru during Dasara.