Deviramma Betta devotee dies while climbing mountain in Chikkamagaluru

A devotee going to offer prayers at Deviramma Betta mountain near Mallenahalli in Chikkamagaluru died suddenly on Sunday morning. According to a report by 'The Hindu', the deceased has been identified as 35-year-old Lakshman, a resident of Kanyadi village in Dakshina Kannada district. Lakshman was working in a private company in Bengaluru and had come to visit a relative residing in Huvinahalli. After travelling during the night, he had decided to climb the hill early in the morning.

While climbing the hill from the Mallenahalli side, Lakshman suddenly collapsed. Upon learning of the incident, personnel from the Fire and Emergency Services deployed there provided immediate assistance. Security personnel brought the body down from the hill, after which it was moved to the Chikkamagaluru District Government Hospital for post-mortem and other formalities. The accident has spread grief among devotees.

The Deviramma temple located at the hilltop is opened to the general public only during the annual festival each year. This year, the festival commenced on Saturday, 7 November. Over the last two days, thousands of devotees from across the state have flocked to seek the blessings of the Goddess. This year, the festival has been extended to two days. For security reasons, the administration has imposed a ban on climbing the hill during the night.

Extensive security arrangements and safety measures have been taken by the Chikkamagaluru district administration and local police for the smooth conduct of the festival. Security personnel and rescue teams have been deployed on the mountain paths to assist devotees to prevent any untoward incident. Following Lakshman's death, the administration is maintaining increased vigilance.

Deviramma Betta is a site of religious significance located in Chikkamagaluru district. The temple situated on this hill has been a center of faith for devotees for years. During the annual festival held every year, a large number of devotees arrive on foot to offer prayers. Despite the difficult climb of the mountain, devotees reach here to express their faith.