Kadlekai Parishe kicks off: Basavanagudi in full festive glow

The historic Kadlekai Parishe (Groundnut Fair) has transformed Basavanagudi and its surrounding areas into a vibrant hub of activity. Streets are glowing with decorative lights, setting the stage for one of Bengaluru’s most cherished traditions. Though the main event is scheduled for Monday, the festivities have already begun, with the fair expected to continue until Wednesday.

A Shopper’s delight

Stretching from Ramakrishna Ashrama Circle to Bugle Rock and Kamat Hotel Circle, an array of stalls has popped up, offering everything from decorative items to traditional snacks. Streets around the Dodda Ganapathi Temple are bustling with shops and street vendors, while the walls near Ramakrishna Ashrama are adorned with intricate Rajasthani decorations. The weekend witnessed large crowds, with families and college students flocking in.

Preserving tradition
To introduce the younger generation to this age-old festival, BBMP (Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (and the Muzrai Department have organised cultural events and innovative programs alongside the fair.

Tax exemption for vendors
In a move that has brought cheer to groundnut vendors, authorities have waived the daily tax collection that was previously levied. Earlier, vendors had to pay Rs.500 to Rs,1,000 daily as tax to contractors. Following complaints, this practice has been discontinued.

Official launch today

The fair will be formally inaugurated on Monday, but the weekend has already drawn crowds of enthusiastic Bengaluru residents to Basavanagudi. Over 2,000 stalls have been set up, offering everything from raw groundnuts to roasted and boiled varieties, with prices ranging between Rs 80 and Rs 100 per kg. Alongside groundnuts, the stalls are selling kadlepuri, bendasu, and other traditional snacks.

Traffic diversions for smooth movement

To ensure smooth traffic flow, changes have been made to vehicle movement in the area. Traffic police have directed commuters to use alternative routes: Commuters travelling from Lalbagh West Gate, Chamarajpet, and Basavanagudi towards Hanumanthanagar are being redirected through Ramakrishna Ashram Circle, Hayavadana Rao Road, Gavipuram 3rd Cross, and Mount Joy Road. Similarly, vehicles approaching Hanumanthnagar from RV Teachers College Junction, Trinity Hospital Road, KR Road, Bugle Rock Road are instructed to use Tagore Circle, Gandhi Bazaar Main Road, Ramakrishna Ashram Junction, Sitaramaiah Road, and Gavipuram 3rd Cross. Parking facilities have been arranged at multiple locations, including Ramakrishna Ashram Circle, Narayanaswamy Circle.