Uncertainty hangs over Hampi Utsav, which traditionally draws huge crowds
During the Aug 15 flag-hoisting ceremony, Basavanthappa said he would discuss the date with CM DK Shivakumar and announce a decision within a day or two. Because of examinations, while tourists could stay away because of the heat, vijayanagara MLA HR Gaviyappa said students, teachers and parents might hesitate to attend closer to summer. At the festival in Feb, former chief minister Siddaramaiah announced that it would henceforth be held in Nov. Seven weeks later, no date has been announced. Senior artiste Manjamma Jogathi said the code would not have been an obstacle if the date had been announced earlier.
District administration sources said a proposal had been submitted to Basavanthappa, who said he would discuss it with the CM at a cabinet meeting in Mangaluru. A senior official, requesting anonymity, said inviting international artistes, ensuring uninterrupted cleanliness and illumination, and arranging Hampi Fly by Sky and literary gatherings required at least two months of planning. A last-minute announcement would leave insufficient time to organise a quality event, the official said. Cooler weather also attracts more tourists, regular visitor Vijayakumar Hanagi said. Describing the festival as a “hurried fair”, she urged authorities to announce the date, honour folk arts and poor artistes, and ensure preparations upheld the dignity of the arts.
However, no decision emerged.
District administration sources said the model code of conduct for legislative council elections could hinder fresh meetings, large-scale tender processes and final decisions until the election process ends.