The spiritual corridors of Srinagar are buzzing with divine fervor as the Sri Banashankari Temple in Weavers Colony prepares for a monumental three-day celebration. From January 1st to 3rd, 2026, the temple will host its 21st Anniversary alongside the magnificent 'Banada Hunnime' Jatra Mahotsava, featuring the historic installation of a new Panchaloha (five-metal alloy) idol of Goddess Sri Badami Banashankari.
A Divine Milestone: Installation of the New Idol
The highlight of this year's festivities is the Prana Pratishthapane (consecration) of the new Panchaloha festival idol. This sacred ceremony marks a significant chapter in the temple's history, inviting devotees to witness the traditional rites that infuse the deity with spiritual life.
V.B. Sri Krishnamurthy Swamiji, the temple's chief priest, has issued a heartfelt invitation to the public: "Let us all participate in large numbers, contributing our body, mind, and resources to be worthy of the Mother’s divine grace."
The Legend of 'Banada Hunnime'
The festival celebrates the auspicious day the Goddess descended to earth for the welfare of the world. Legend has it that in the lush forests of Badami, near the Saraswati Tirtha, the Mother performed a divine dance witnessed by 330 million deities, sages, and celestial beings. Today, the Srinagar temple recreates that sacred energy, offering devotees a path to mental peace and the fulfillment of their wishes.
Three Days of Sacred Rituals: The Schedule
The Jatra Mahotsava is meticulously planned with rituals synchronized to auspicious celestial timings (Lagnas):
Day 1: Thursday, Jan 1, 2026 (New Year's Day)
Morning (7:30 AM – 9:30 AM): The festivities begin in the Makara Lagna with Kumkumarchane for the new idol, followed by Mahamangalarathi and Prasada distribution.
Day 2: Friday, Jan 2, 2026
Noon (12:00 PM – 12:30 PM): During the Abhijit Lagna, the main Prana Pratishthapane (Life Consecration) will occur. Rituals include Panchamrutabhisheka, Durga Homa, and Netronmeelana (opening of the deity's eyes).
Day 3: Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 (Banada Hunnime)
Morning (6:15 AM): Special Vajrangi Alankara (Diamond-studded decoration) for the Goddess.
Afternoon (1:00 PM): Anna Santharpane (Grand Community Feast) for all devotees.
Evening (5:30 PM): The grand finale features a Mega Rathotsava. The new idol will be taken in a spectacular procession on an illuminated chariot through the main streets of Srinagar, accompanied by traditional drum beats (Tamate, Dolu) and folk art troupes.
Regular Services at the Temple
Beyond the annual festival, the temple remains a hub for regular spiritual seekers:
Special Poojas: Every Friday, Full Moon (Hunnime), and New Moon (Amavasya).
Rahu Kala Pooja: Every Sunday, Tuesday, and Friday.
Monthly Highlights: Grand Pooja and Rathotsava are held every month during the Pushya Masa Shukla Paksha Hunnime.
Location: Sri Banashankari Devi Temple, Weavers Colony, Pipeline, Srinagar, Bengaluru. Contact for Seva Inquiries: 90663 08579 / 99455 41155 Also Read: Kuvempu Jayanti – World Humanism Day: A Journey from Consciousness to Universal Humanism