How to describe that feeling when the
waves of an ocean come and touch your feet? I would be more relaxed than before and when
the wave recedes I feel fresh, energetic and confident. All the stress, tension
will be taken away by the waves. What a beautiful feeling! I happened to
experience the same when I visited Sagara. Sagara means Ocean is a city located in Shivamogga district. Sagara is about 360Kms from Bengaluru, located within the
Western Ghats range and people of Sagara are the waves who have the capability
of fixing you!
It was early morning of 24th December when we reached Sagara. The rays of sun were breaking, heralding an
awesome day ahead. We decided to explore a few places in and around Sagara. We
visited Varadahalli which is believed to be the place where Shri Shridhara
Swamy preached his devotees. Tranquillity around the temple premises had a
calming effect on us. It was wonderful. After the darshanam we visited Keladi
rameshwara temple. We were intricated by the architecture on the temple walls. From
Keladi we headed towards Banavasi. The city is build around the famous
Madhukeshwara Temple. Architecture on the walls of the temple is spellbinding
and it’s a treat for the lovers of architecture. The main attraction is the 7
feet Nandi carved from a single stone. I was compelled by carvings of
Amarashilpi Jakanachari. By admiring the rich heritage of Karnataka we headed
back to Sagara to attend much anticipated ‘Doddamane’ function.
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| Madhukeshwara Temple |
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| Varadahalli |
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| 7-foot Nandi |
Doddamane is a 2-storey old vintage
house built 100 years back where my ancestors were born and bought up.
Sprawling around half an acre, the house features a hall, library, veranda to
relax, bananti kone, Angala (it is an open air space apt for the evening
gossips) etc,. The root of the family tree was Venkat Rao Bapat and the
family tree began expanding beyond our imaginations. Few people got together
and planned an event called ‘ದೊಡ್ಡಮನೆ ಶತಮಾನೋತ್ಸವ (Doddamane Centenary function)’ to bridge the
connection between the extended families. I guess I am fortunate enough to have
got an invite to such a great gathering.
It was a four day event and over 400 people were invited.
Family heritage was kept alive in a
display room which was similar to a museum. They had articulated all the old
photos and some had also made collages. I was also surprised to find an art
work made by my Mottiaaye (Grandmom) when she was 16! There were many antique
items like conch (shankha), Kitchen utensiles,etc.
Next day was all about Chitpavani
culture. All the ladies decided to dress up in a traditional 9 yard saree. Nath
(nose ring) is a Maharastrian ornament which was worn by most of the women. It
is woven with pearls and studded with pink or white stone in the middle.
Maharastrian appearance of any women is incomplete without a ‘Chandra kor
Bindi’. All tied their hair in a round
shape and adorned with antique bun pin. What a get up! For a moment I thought I
was literally in Maharashtra. The culture and heritage of all the communities
has its own importance and I am glad to have learnt more on Maharastrian
culture.
After the
tiring morning it was time to lighten the mood. We
gathered around Angala (30*30 open air seating) to get entertained. Music is
the heart and soul of entertainment in our family! Power of music is unlimited.
It had a soothing effect and music can take you to an unknown world where there
is nothing but peace! The night was filled with great music, dance, drama and
many more.
Family introduction and photo session
was scheduled in Bapat convention hall the following day! Each family was
called upon the stage and were introduced individually. I was surprised to see
so many families on the stage! It takes great determination and courage to
trace all the family members from the root and I would like to congratulate all
the organizers for working so hard day and night to make this event memorable
and a grand success! I am so sure that younger people like us would keep the
ball rolling for the future generations!
It is common for family members to lose connections with one
another if they are not immediately related. This reunion helped me to
reconnect with my long lost cousins, aunts, uncles or many more. Bonds are
often re-strengthened, remembered and cherished during such reunions and also
remind you to take a step back from your busy schedule and prioritize what is
more important in life.
