Belli Ratha Utsava 2024: Celebrating Subrahmanya Sashti in Bengaluru

The Belli Ratha Utsava to mark “Subrahmanya Sashti” is a unique blend of spirituality, tradition, and community spirit, offering an enriching experience for devotees and visitors alike.

When Subhramanya shashti/Belli Ratha Happens:

The Belli Ratha Utsava is usually celebrated during the Karthika or Margashirsha month (November-December), though the exact date may vary each year. In 2024, it is celebrated on 7 Dec. 

How is it celebrated?

1. Silver Chariot Procession:
   • The main attraction is the beautifully decorated silver chariot, carrying the deity of Lord Subrahmanya with his consorts.
   • Devotees pull the chariot around the VV Puram circle, chanting hymns and singing bhajans with great devotion and fervor.
2. Special Pujas and Abhishekam: Special pujas, abhishekas, and aratis are performed to invoke the blessings of Lord Subhramanya
3. Fasting and Devotion: Several Devotees observe a fast and offer prayers to Lord Subhramanya, seeking his blessings for courage, prosperity, and protection. Many pray for children, and the well-being of their children and seek relief from serpent-related doshas. Recitation of Kanda Sashti Kavacham also happens with a lot of devotion.
4. Vibrant Fair: The event brings together locals, shopkeepers, and devotees who actively participate in organizing and celebrating the festival, Several hawkers and make-shift shops are set up on all the roads connecting to VV Puram Circle.

What To eat?

• VV Puram Food Street is a must explore – Considering this would be the “Avrekai” season, do not miss the delicious avrekai roti from Vasavi Condiments. Also, carry home some “flavored avrebele”, don’t miss pudine & garlic flavors. You may also try paddu, idli, dosas/akki roti, ragi roti, and other popular South Indian food here.
• Also try chaat, bhel puri that are sold on streets – this would be a delicate blend of puffed rice, sev, chutneys, and vegetables.
• Also, don’t miss the tapioca chips that are sold on carts.

What to shop?

•  Traditional Handicrafts and Toys: wooden toys, Clay, and Earthenware handicrafts and items
•  Traditional Snacks and Sweets – Tapioca chips, Chats, and food from VV Puram food street. Dont miss the flavored Avre bele
• Religious and Spiritual Items: Brass and Copper Items like Lamps, pooja thalis, and small idols of gods and goddesses. Flower Garlands made of jasmine, marigold, and roses are available.
• Home Utility Items: Kitchen tools, utensils, and household essentials at bargain prices.
• Accessories for women: Earrings, bangles, chains, necklaces, and anklets are also available at an economical price

Visiting Tips:

• Arrive early in the morning to get a good view of the procession. The afternoon between 3 to 5 is also a good time to get a good view.
• Make sure you park your vehicle at least 1 km away from VV Puram temple
• Metro is also a great way to reach the location.  Take the green line and alight at the “National College” stop, take the VV Puram/Visveshwarapura exit – from here it’s about 300 mtrs walk.
• Wear traditional attire as a mark of respect.
• Be prepared for crowds and enjoy the cultural vibrancy of the event.