Deputy Commissioner Kumar inspected a site at Chikka Mandya, on the outskirts of Mandya, in connection with the launch of the helicopter ride for the upcoming Budanur festival, on February 4, 2026.
| Photo Credit: File photo
The Mandya district administration is planning to introduce helicopter rides at affordable cost for three days from February 20 during the annual Budanur festival this year.
The Budanur festival, an annual religious and cultural celebration in Karnataka centered around 13th century Hoysala-era Ananthapadmanabha temple and the Kashi Vishwanatha temple, draws a large number of people to Budanur village, situated close to Mandya town.
On February 4, Deputy Commissioner Kumar inspected a site at Chikka Mandya, on the outskirts of Mandya, in connection with the launch of the helicopter ride for the upcoming Budanur festival.
“During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner Kumar reviewed arrangements related to security, public safety, traffic management, and required infrastructure, and issued necessary guidelines to the officials concerned,” according to local authorities.
The Deputy Commissioner said that all necessary measures would be taken in accordance with regulations, and keeping public interest in mind.
During a preparatory meeting on the conduct of Budanur festival, MLA P. Ravi Kumar, who represents Mandya Assembly constituency, said the festival will be celebrated in a grand manner this year.
Seeking the co-operation of people in the conduct of the festival, Mr. Ravi Kumar said ticket prices for the helicopter ride will be kept affordable so that visitors can enjoy an aerial view of the Budanur festival.
Describing the presence of Ananthapadmanabha and Kashi Vishwanath temples in Budanur as a matter of pride for Mandya district, Mr. Ravi Kumar compared them with the temples in Belur and Halebid while pointing out that the upcoming festival will serve to showcase and preserve the rich temple architecture.
Proper transport and parking facilities will be made for visitors attending the Budanur festival, he said.
As part of the festival, a procession featuring various cultural troupes will commence from Hale Budanur. A total of 37 Pooja Kunitha troupes will participate in the procession.
A rangoli competition has been planned for households in the region. Cash prizes will be presented to the top three winners while all the participants will receive special gifts sponsored by the MLA.
A drawing competition for children will be conducted, with cash prizes for winners and gifts for all participants.
A food festival will be organized as part of the celebrations.
The cultural programmes organised as part of the festival will spread over two days, and priority will be given to local artistes.
He said various committees, including a reception committee, had been formed as part of the preparations. “Traditional rural sports will be organized for locals, and exhibition stalls will be set up. Greater emphasis will be placed on rural games. Rangoli and drawing competitions, a tug-of-war, kabaddi games, and other events will be organized to encourage women and the general public,” he said while calling upon the villagers and local elders to work together to make the festival a success.
Published – February 04, 2026 03:45 pm IST
