Melukote, Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated across India with immense joy and enthusiasm. However, not all regions observe the festival with the same fervor. One such place is Melukote, a quaint town in Karnataka’s Mandya district.
Unlike other parts of the country, where Diwali is marked by grand celebrations, Melukote stands apart with a subdued observance of the festival. The reason behind this lies in the town’s deep-rooted historical and cultural background. In this blog, we delve into the unique traditions and historical influences that contribute to Melukote’s distinct approach to Diwali.
Melukote, an ancient town and historical site, is located approximately 51 miles from Mysore and 36 kilometers from Mandya. Over the centuries, it has been known by various names in legendary texts, including Narayanadri, Vedadri, Yadavadri, Yathishaila, and Tirunarayanapura.
The town derives its name from the Narayanaswamy Temple, which is perched atop a hill and surrounded by a protective fort. Melukote is nestled within the Yadugiri rocky hill range at an elevation of 3,589 feet (1,094 meters) above sea level. Notably, it is the only settlement in the Mandya district located at such a high altitude, standing over 1,000 meters above sea level.
A Sacred Town Marked by Devotion and Tragedy
Melukote holds great significance in the Srivaishnavite tradition, as it was home to the revered saint Ramanujacharya for nearly 14 years during the 12th century. His presence elevated the town to prominence as a major Srivaishnavite center. Over time, a large number of Iyengar Brahmins migrated to Melukote and established the Mandyam Iyengar community.
The town boasts several sacred sites, including the renowned Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple and the Yoganarasimha Temple. Along with a number of ancient ponds. Melukote is also home to the Academy of Sanskrit Research, which houses an extensive collection of Vedic and Sanskrit manuscripts.
By the early 16th century, Melukote had flourished, with nearly a thousand Brahmin households residing in the town. However, in the 18th century. The celebration of Diwali ceased following a tragic event—an atrocious crime committed by the local ruler. Which left a lasting impact on the community.
In 1790, on the day of Naraka Chaturdashi, Melukote witnessed a tragic event when more than 700 Mandyam Iyengar households. Including women and children, were massacred by Tipu Sultan’s forces. The community had gathered to celebrate Diwali at the Narasimhaswamy Temple on the banks of the Cauvery River in Srirangapatna when they were brutally attacked.
The Lasting Impact of Tragedy: Why Melukote Does Not Celebrate Diwali
Following this devastating incident, the surviving Mandyam Iyengars were forced to flee from their original settlements in Baburayana Koppalu, Mandya Koppal, and Mandya. Seeking refuge first in Nagamangala and eventually in Melukote. This tragic history is the reason why Diwali is not celebrated in Melukote to this day.
The destruction and loss caused by Tipu Sultan’s invasion left an indelible mark on the town. And even after more than two centuries, the memory of those dark times continues to linger in the hearts of the community.
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