Sagara Doddamane- Ocean of Happiness

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 24^th 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.

Madhukeshwara Temple

Varadahalli

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.

          

          Udakashanti was arranged at the premises of Doddamane. I learnt that the pooja is done for the peace and harmony in the house. People started filling Doddamane to participate in the pooja and also for the great reunion. Some of the faces were familiar and I was elated to see so many happy faces. Happiness went viral! I wish I could freeze that moment for a long long time. Family reunion creates strong and lasting bonds and also a deep sense of belonging.

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.