Fri Jan 09 05:20:18 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Yadgir District Gears Up for Annual Sri Mailaralingeshwar Temple Fair, Bans Animal Sacrifices

The Story:

The Yadgir district administration in Karnataka is preparing for the six-day annual fair of the Sri Mailaralingeshwar temple in Mailapur village, set to begin on January 12, 2026. Lakhs of devotees from Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Maharashtra are expected to attend. A key event will be on January 14, 2026, when the idol of Lord Mailaralingeshwar will be taken for a holy dip. This year, however, a significant change is the ban on hurling live goats and sheep onto the moving palanquin, a practice previously observed by devotees.

The administration is focusing on providing essential facilities and ensuring safety, with increased police presence, CCTV surveillance, and coordinated efforts from various departments, including Revenue, Animal Husbandry, Home, and Transportation. Measures are in place to manage crowds, prevent crime, and provide adequate sanitation and drinking water.

Key Points:

  • The annual Sri Mailaralingeshwar temple fair in Mailapur, Yadgir taluk, begins on January 12, 2026.
  • The idol of Lord Mailaralingeshwar will be taken for a holy dip on January 14, 2026.
  • The district administration has prohibited devotees from hurling live goats and sheep on the moving palanquin.
  • Extensive safety measures are being implemented, including increased police personnel, CCTV surveillance, and coordination with neighboring state police forces.
  • Basic facilities like drinking water, makeshift toilets, and transportation services are being provided for the expected large influx of devotees.
  • The Animal Husbandry Department will collect animals offered to the god and auction them later.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Yadgir district administration is prioritizing the safety and well-being of devotees attending the annual fair.
  • The ban on hurling live animals represents a move towards modernizing religious practices and preventing cruelty.
  • Inter-state coordination is crucial for managing large events that draw crowds from multiple regions.
  • The administration is attempting to balance religious tradition with public safety and animal welfare concerns.

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