Rangapanchami celebration in Hubballi sees increased participation

Rangapanchami was a lively event in Hubballi this year, celebrating the fifth day after the Full Moon as part of Holi festivities. Many people took to the streets, ignoring traffic restrictions, to join in the colorful fun on Tuesday. The vibrant atmosphere was marked by music and dancing, with more young women participating than in previous years. This year, there was no ban on rain dances or loud DJ music at the Kamanna pandals, which increased in number. Traditional drum sounds were drowned out by the DJ music, and young boys and girls enjoyed the celebrations, with some dressed in funny wigs and masks. Children also had their own fun, using water guns and balloons to splash passersby. In Kamaripet, a lively area known for its Holi celebrations, locals poured colored water from balconies onto those below. The festivities included processions with idols of Kamanna and Rati, ending with the burning of Kamanna. Despite calls to end the celebrations earlier, people continued to celebrate late into the evening. Members of the Muslim community also joined in, embracing the festivities alongside their Hindu friends. Police officials were relieved that everything concluded without any major incidents.