Prakash Buradikatti, founder of Vande Mataram Seva Organisation
Vande Mataram Voluntary Service Organisation said very small farming families in 16 villages would receive Rs 5,000 each under the initiative. The total requirement is estimated at nearly Rs 1.5 crore, which the organisation hopes to raise by scaling down the festival and redirecting expenditure on celebrations, decorations and events. Because of public health concerns, he recalled that the organisation had similarly restricted celebrations to a single symbolic day during the Covid-19 years of 2020 and 2021.
Organisers said the move was driven by a sense of community responsibility and was not linked to politics, individual charity or official relief measures. Prakash Buradikatti, founder of the organisation, said this year’s festival would be dedicated to farmers in distress. “This year, the reason is different, but the intention remains the same: service,” Buradikatti said.
Haveri: Organisers of the popular ‘Ranebennur Ka Raja’ Ganesh festival have decided to divert funds from this year’s celebrations to provide direct financial assistance to distressed farmers in Ranebennur taluk. The decision followed an assessment of hardship caused by poor rainfall in June and July across the taluk and district. Many farmers are facing crop uncertainty, water scarcity and rising cultivation costs, with inadequate rainfall during crucial months heightening concerns over losses and debt. “Even if the govt declares drought, farmers may receive only limited immediate relief, apart from water arrangements and official measures. Direct assistance to poor farming families can provide some support when they need it most. Quote The organisation wanted to set an example by choosing welfare over grandeur. Devotion to Lord Ganesh can also be expressed through service to people in distress, especially farmers who sustain rural life. – Prakash Buradikatti, founder, Vande Mataram Voluntary Service Organisation Festival funds turn lifeline for farmers · No DJ and other expensive things this year
Instead of its usual multi-day festivities, the ‘Ranebennur Ka Raja’ celebration will be observed as a one-day symbolic event, with idol installation and worship conducted in a modest manner. · Small farmers will be selected from 16 villagers · At least 3000 farmers will get this benefit · Each farmer will get 5,000 in financial assistances · It requires at least Rs 1.5 crore Stay updated with the latest Hubballi news. Download the TOI App.