Every year, Karnataka’s Manikyadhara hill in Chikkamagalur sees a flood of devotees taking on extreme challenges to reach the revered Ammori Temple for the annual darshan of Devi Ramma. Known for its steep, winding paths, risky terrain, and the decayed stone steps leading to the top, the temple remains accessible for worship only once a year. Despite these obstacles, thousands of pilgrims courageously scale the hill, driven by unshakable faith.
A Faithful Journey Against All Odds
The journey up Manikyadhara hill isn’t easy. The narrow stairs were built long ago, dating back to the time of local kings, and are nearly crumbling in many places. Pilgrims climb the rugged, slippery steps, often gripping ropes to steady themselves against the steep incline. One misstep could lead to a slip down the side of the hill, yet devotees forge on with an unwavering spirit, undeterred by the risks.
Crowds resembling an “army of ants” covered the hillside, with every pilgrim taking one careful step after another, united in their mission to see the goddess Devi Ramma. These visuals served as a powerful reminder of the strength of faith, as devotees, young and old, scaled the hill for darshan.
Overcrowding Leads to Injury and Risk
As thousands made their way to the peak, the hill couldn’t accommodate the overflow of devotees, resulting in chaotic scenes. In the midst of this rush, around ten devotees were injured, some suffering minor slips while others required immediate assistance. One woman, overcome by exhaustion, fell seriously ill and had to be rescued by police, who were on-site to help maintain safety. She was transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention.
Despite these challenges, the dedicated crowd persisted, helping one another navigate the path. In response to the large turnout, local authorities were put on high alert. Police made special arrangements for crowd control and set up emergency relief stations along the route to ensure as much safety as possible.
A Rare Opportunity for Darshan at Ammori Temple
The Ammori Temple on Manikyadhara hill opens for darshan only once a year, making this day an extraordinary opportunity for devotees. This limited access fuels the intense desire among worshippers to visit, leading to an overwhelming turnout each year. The historic temple remains mostly empty for the rest of the year, yet on this single day, it transforms into a hub of devotion and celebration.
Faith That Knows No Bounds
The journey to Manikyadhara hill’s temple showcases the resilience and devotion of the faithful. Devotees braved dangerous paths and navigated rough conditions, all for a chance to be blessed by Devi Ramma. Their efforts remind us that for some, devotion knows no boundaries, conquering even the steepest climbs and roughest terrain.
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