Amid the lush hills of Malenadu, in villages of Shivamogga and Uttara Kannada, Bhoomi Hunnime, celebrated before Deepavali, is a cherished occasion for farming families.

Observed on the full moon day of Ashvija month’s Shukla Paksha, this festival treats Mother Earth as a nurturing mother, revered through rituals akin to a traditional Seemantha ceremony. For the Deevaru community, it’s a heartfelt tribute to Bhoomi Tayi, also known as Seege Hunnime in Bayaluseeme.Samsung Galaxy M36 5G (Serene Green, 6 GB RAM, 128 GB Storage)| Circle to Search| Google Gemini| Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+| 7.7mm Slim| AI Enhanced 50 MP OIS Triple Camera| Unmatched Nightography

Preparations begin 15 days prior to Deepavali, with women preparing an array of delicacies overnight, including 10-15 dishes like rotti, gulki, kadubu, kajjaya, bale dindu, heerekayi palya, and soppu palya made from wild greens.

These offerings symbolize fulfilling the desires of the pregnant Earth. At dawn, a large bamboo basket, called Bhoomanni Butti, is adorned with red soil and white lime, decorated with vibrant rice flour and sesame-based rangolis depicting Ganesha, Lakshmi, Saraswati, the sun, and the moon.Also Read: Starting tomorrow, biometric UPI payments will be launched nationwide: Your face is now your UPI PIN..!

By noon, families gather near their fields, placing the basket on the ground, lighting lamps, and offering incense and naivedya.

They pray, “Mother Earth, you fill our lives with abundance,” and partake in a communal meal, believing this ritual ensures fertile lands and bountiful harvests.Also Read: MBBS Student Denied 5th Attempt at Exam by Karnataka High Court

This tradition reflects Malenadu’s cultural identity, with young generations learning the art of rangoli, preserving the festival’s essence. Bhoomi Hunnime underscores the importance of environmental conservation.