Minister moots Gangothsava festival at Talakad

Talakad circuit to be developed by the government

The government will conduct Gangothsava at Talakad near T. Narsipura from this year in a bid to develop the historical place as a major tourist destination. This was stated by the Minister for Tourism C.P. Yogeshwar after visiting Somanathpur and Talakad, on Monday. Talakad was the capital of the Gangas who ruled for more than 6 centuries from the 4th to the 10th century CE and contributed immensely to art and culture of the region. The Gangothsava is to celebrate their contribution and revive public memory about a dynasty. The Minister said Talakad is known for Panchalinga Darshana which takes places based on the astrological and astronomical calculations once in a few years. But if Gangothsava was celebrated every year to coincide with Dasara in Mysuru, it would not only increase the tourist traffic but will help shore up the infrastructure of the region, said the minister. Talakad is a renowned pilgrim centre but it was necessary to develop it as a tourist centre laying emphasis on its history and archaeology, he added. The Minister said a detailed project report will be ready within 15 to 20 days.