Banavasi Village - Karnataka
Set against the backdrop of the Western Ghats on the banks of the Varada river, 100 km from Karwar in the state of Karnataka, Banavasi is home to a diversity of skilled artisans and artistes, carvers excelling in sandalwood, metal and stone… painters, basket weavers and potters… Yakshagana artistes and classical musicians… blending with distinctive agricultural practices, indigenous systems of medicine and traditional dwellings.
There are temples for the devout. Rustic greenery all round is set off by the sprawling Gudnapura lake.
Annual festivities are heightened by the Kadambothsav festival when folk dancers enter the scene.
Steeped in history, Banavasi was the capital of the Kadamba dynasty during the 9th century, the Madhukeshwara temple built during that time period still beckons people to have a surreal experience of the old days. Amar Shilpi Chakanacharya, the famed sculptor is said to have been inspired by the sheer beauty of the place.
The place abounds with interesting stories about how his sculptures actually came to life because of the absolute flawlessness and perfection of the master craftsman's work. The tradition of art and craft work is still carried on by the people of Banavasi to this day. The local artisans along with the village community have formed an organization to promote endogenous travel in this town. This also ensures that the visitors get to interact with the craftsmen.
Art and craft apart, Banavsi is also blessed with the abundance of nature as can be seen in the western ghats. Famed for its biodiversity, this town is perfect for people who value the environment, and its pristine charms, be it a pond filled with lotus along the curve of a quaint road, or the sight of a colourful bird that beckons with its call!
Few people know that Banavasi is famous for its pineapples as well. The weekly pinapple mela can be quiet a treat for the foodie. |
