Thousands flock to Chamundeshwari Temple amid Ashada Friday rush

Thousands of devotees gathered at Sri Chamundeshwari Temple for the first Ashada Friday. The District Administration implemented a ban on private vehicles to the hilltop during weekends, facilitating the movement of devotees. KSRTC operated special Volvo and regular buses to manage the increased VVIP and general public turnout. Arrangements included parking, drinking water, shelter, and mobile toilets. Devotees had the option of purchasing Rs. 2,000 tickets for special darshan or joining queues for regular darshan. Many devotees also chose to ascend the hill by climbing the steps, performing traditional rituals. Puja rituals began early, and the main idol was decorated as Goddess Nagalakshmi, with plans for subsequent decorations as Mahisasura Mardhini. Several VIPs, including Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar's wife Usha Shivakumar and MLA G.T. Devegowda, visited the temple. Urban Development Minister Dr. Yathindra Siddaramaiah inspected arrangements but did not enter the temple to adhere to administrative rules. Security was enhanced with police deployment and CCTV surveillance.