Karnataka has witnessed an unprecedented wave of protests over the past week, as thousands of devotees, women’s groups, pro-Hindu activists, and BJP-JD(S) leaders poured onto the streets across multiple districts, condemning what they called a “systematic conspiracy” to defame the revered pilgrimage centre of Dharmasthala and its Dharmadhikari, Dr. Veerendra Heggade.
Belagavi & Vijayapura
In Belagavi, members of the Sri Dharmasthala Bhaktabhimani Vedike staged a rasta roko at Rani Channamma Circle before marching to the Deputy Commissioner’s office to submit a memorandum. Hundreds of women self-help group members joined, praising Dharmasthala’s charitable works. Religious leaders demanded strict legal action against portals and YouTubers accused of maligning the shrine.
In Vijayapura, protestors marched from Sri Siddeshwar Swami Math to the DC’s office, alleging that “anti-Hindu forces” were behind the smear campaign. Former BJP MLC Arun Shahapur addressed the gathering.
Yadgir
Hundreds of devotees marched from Subhash Chandra Chowk to the DC’s office, raising slogans against YouTubers and influencers accused of uploading defamatory content. Protesters demanded a fresh SIT probe into the intentions and funding of those spreading falsehoods.
Chikkamagaluru
Over 2,000 devotees participated in a 2 km march from the Taluk Office to Azad Park. The rally was marked by devotional hymns, drums, and widespread participation of women. Protesters condemned attempts to malign Dharmasthala in the name of the ongoing mass burial case.
Koppal
Thousands, including a large number of women and a differently-abled Muslim man in a wheelchair, joined a rally from Ishwar Park to the DC’s office. Several Muslim women also participated, signalling inter-community solidarity in defending Dharmasthala’s sanctity.
Mysuru
Thousands of women devotees staged a march from Old Dairy Circle to the DC’s office, carrying placards supporting Dr. Veerendra Heggade. They demanded transparency in the SIT probe and warned of severe consequences for those defaming the temple town.
Kalaburagi
Hindu and Kannada organisations, along with former BJP MLA Dattatreya Patil and other leaders, rallied from Jagat Circle to the DC’s office after garlanding the statue of Basavanna. Protesters denounced “fake YouTubers” spreading malicious content.
Shivamogga
Devotees under the Sri Dharmasthala Bhaktabhimani Vedike staged a massive march in the city. Former Deputy CM K.S. Eshwarappa and JD(S) leaders joined, demanding the arrest of the anonymous person who first alleged mass burials. Participants included Jain organisations such as Sri Hombuja Jain Math, Jain Milan, and Digambar Jain Sangha.
Honnavara
A huge crowd marched through the coastal town, echoing slogans of solidarity with Dharmasthala and condemning conspiracies against Hindu religious institutions.
In solidarity with Dharmasthala, thousands across Karnataka are rising in support! Yesterday in Honnavara, a massive crowd marched to protest the conspiracy targeting Dharmasthala. #StandWithDharmasthala pic.twitter.com/lNZFhqHr1S
— Chakravarty Sulibele (@astitvam) August 21, 2025
Yelahanka To Dharmasthala
In a show of direct solidarity, over 2,000 workers led by Yelahanka MLA S.R. Vishwanath arrived in more than 400 vehicles under the banner Dharmasthala Chalo. They offered prayers and pledged unwavering support to Dr. Heggade.
Belagavi Silent Rally
On Tuesday, despite heavy rains, thousands joined a silent rally organised by the Dharmasthala Hitarakshana Samiti. Participants, including seers and community leaders, marched with black armbands and umbrellas. BJP’s Abhay Patil warned of a statewide “Dharmasthala Chalo” movement if the government failed to act.
Meanwhile, the SIT probing the alleged “mass burial” conducted a Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) scan at Point No. 13, but no human remains were found. Excavation continues with heavy machinery, with officials suspecting soil dumped during dam construction may be covering the alleged site.
A Unified Stand
Across Karnataka, protesters reiterated a single message: “We stand with Dharmasthala and Dr. Veerendra Heggade.”
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