Ooru Habba: A Glimpse of Tradition in a Modern City

At certain times of the year, have you ever driven through parts of Bengaluru and noticed stretches of road illuminated by colourful lights, adorned with intricate string lights mounted on moulds of gods and goddesses, or witnessed grand processions with flower-decorated chariots that seem to pause abruptly in the middle of a street? These vibrant sights are not random displays but a celebration of the city’s deep-rooted cultural heritage. Beneath Bengaluru’s modern skyline, bustling IT corridors, and cosmopolitan vibe lies a history as a collection of villages, each with its unique identity and traditions. The Ooru Habba, or “village festival,” is a vibrant celebration that pays homage to these roots, reinforcing what we all think of Bengaluru – a big town with small town ‘feels’.

What is an Ooru Habba?

Historically, Bengaluru was an agglomeration of over 50 villages, each with its own traditions, deities, and festivals. Villages like Malleswaram, Basavanagudi, Ulsoor, and Varthur, among others, were once self-sustaining agrarian communities deeply connected to the land and its rhythms. The Ooru Habba, which translates to “festival of the land,” emerged as a way to honour local deities and celebrate the agrarian lifestyle that defined each village. During the festival, the entire village would be adorned with decorations, and the celebrations were marked by rituals, folk performances, and community feasts, fostering a sense of unity and belonging among villagers.

Even after these villages were merged to form the city of Bengaluru we know and love today, the collective memory of their distinct identities persists. Imaginary boundaries, rooted in memory, continue to define where the decorations and celebrations begin and end, a fascinating example of ‘urban memory’ passed down over time. Hence explaining the abrupt end to decorative lighting along a street – because that ‘end point’, (in all likelihood) symbolised a village boundary.

Cultural Significance

The cultural significance of the Ooru Habba lies in its ability to bring together diverse communities. Each village had its own patron deity, and the festivals were an occasion to honour these gods and goddesses, often accompanied by grand processions, music, and dance. Folk art forms like Dollu Kunitha (drum dance), Veeragase (a vigorous dance form), and Puja Kunitha (worship dance) were integral to the celebrations, showcasing the artistic heritage of the region. The festival also served as a platform for storytelling, with elders narrating tales of local heroes, legends, and historical events, ensuring the transmission of oral history across generations.?

Blending Tradition with Modernity

In recent years, the Ooru Habba has also embraced modern forms of artistic expression, blending tradition with contemporary creativity. One such example is the use of light art, where intricate images of gods, goddesses, and mythological scenes are created using illuminated installations. These stunning displays, often set up along streets and public spaces, transform the city into a visual spectacle during the festival. The light art not only adds a modern touch to the celebrations but also serves as a way to engage younger generations and urban residents, making the festival more inclusive and accessible.?

A Unique Tradition: The Mavalli Ooru Habba

One of the many fascinating facets of the Ooru Habba is the celebration in and around Mavalli. During the festival, the four goddesses of Mavalli—Mariamma, Durgamma, Ellamma, and Pochamma—are taken out in a grand procession around the village. A popular story is that the goddesses were 4 sisters, and every 3 years, they visit each other in sequence. This ritual, known as the “four goddesses walking around Mavalli,” is a deeply symbolic event that signifies the protection and blessings of the deities for the community. The procession is ofcourse accompanied by traditional music, dance, and rituals, creating a powerful sense of spiritual and communal harmony.

A Celebration of Identity and Continuity

One of the most striking aspects of the Ooru Habba is its emphasis on community participation. The festival was not just a religious event but a social one, where people from all walks of life came together to celebrate. Farmers, artisans, traders, and labourers would set aside their daily routines to partake in the festivities.

In a city that has grown exponentially, the festival serves as a reminder of Bengaluru’s shared heritage. It bridges the gap between the old and the new, offering a glimpse into the city’s cultural history. It is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of identity, community, and continuity. As Bengaluru races toward the future, the Ooru Habba ensures that its past is not forgotten, reminding us that the city’s true essence lies in its villages and the stories they hold.

A treat to experience, the Ooru Habba is a glimpse into the resilience of culture and the power of tradition to bring people together, even in the face of rapid urbanization and change.?

-By Nidhi Bhatnagar

?

?