Every November, the historic neighborhood of Basavanagudi in Bengaluru comes alive in a vibrant celebration of faith, food, and togetherness. As the fragrance of freshly roasted groundnuts fills the air, the rhythmic sounds of temple bells blend with cheerful voices, creating an atmosphere that feels both festive and sacred. This is Kadalekai Parishe — Bengaluru’s iconic Groundnut Festival — a cherished tradition that bridges the city’s modern pace with its timeless heritage.
During the festival, the streets around the ancient Dodda Ganapathi Temple overflow with stalls, colors, and conversations. Farmers from nearby villages arrive to sell the first harvest of groundnuts, while devotees offer them to Lord Ganesha in gratitude for prosperity. Families stroll under strings of lights, tasting local delicacies, buying handcrafted goods, and soaking in the community spirit that defines the event.
In 2025, Kadalekai Parishe is expected to be one of the grandest celebrations yet, drawing farmers, travelers, artists, and heritage lovers from across the country. More than just a market or fair, it is a heartfelt reminder of Bengaluru’s roots — where devotion meets livelihood, and where tradition continues to thrive amidst the hum of a growing city.
The Meaning Behind Kadalekai Parishe
The word Kadalekai means “groundnut,” and Parishe means “fair.” Together, Kadalekai Parishe literally means “The Groundnut Fair.” For centuries, farmers have brought the first crop of their groundnut harvest to the Bull Temple (Dodda Basavana Gudi) in Basavanagudi, offering it to Nandi, the sacred bull and devoted companion of Lord Shiva.
The Legend
According to a popular story, a giant bull once wandered through these lands, destroying all the groundnut crops. When the farmers prayed to Lord Shiva for help, the deity appeared and pacified the bull by turning it into stone. To honor this divine protection, local farmers began the tradition of offering their first harvest to Nandi before selling it in the market.
That ritual gradually evolved into a grand annual fair — what we now know as Kadalekai Parishe Bengaluru.
Kadalekai Parishe 2025 Dates and Location
The Kadalekai Parishe 2025 dates are expected to fall in late November or early December, depending on the Hindu lunar calendar. The main celebration happens at the Basavanagudi Bull Temple, one of the oldest temples in Bengaluru.
During these two days, the entire area around Bull Temple Road, Bugle Rock Park, and Gandhi Bazaar comes alive with lights, food stalls, art, and laughter.
It’s not just an event — it is an experience that brings the entire city together.
The Spirit of the Festival
The beauty of Kadalekai Parishe lies in how it blends spiritual devotion with local culture. Early morning prayers at the Bull Temple mark the start of the festival, followed by farmers offering their groundnuts as a symbol of gratitude for a successful harvest.
Soon after, the fair opens to the public — and the streets turn into a colorful carnival. From groundnuts piled high in bamboo baskets to vendors selling toys, jewelry, and sweets, the festival feels like a window into old Bengaluru.
Things to See and Do at Kadalekai Parishe 2025
- The Traditional Groundnut Offerings
The most sacred part of the festival is the offering ceremony. Farmers from across Karnataka gather with baskets full of fresh groundnuts, offering them to Nandi before the market opens. Watching hundreds of people bowing in prayer, surrounded by the earthy scent of peanuts and incense, is a moving moment of devotion.
- The Groundnut Bazaar
After the rituals, Basavanagudi’s streets become a lively open-air market. You will find roasted peanuts, salted and jaggery-coated groundnuts, and even peanut-based sweets. The local favorite is the hot, salted kadalekai served in paper cones — simple, warm, and full of nostalgia.
- Handicrafts and Folk Art
Beyond food, Kadalekai Parishe 2025 also celebrates Karnataka’s handicraft heritage. Artisans from different districts sell clay toys, brass lamps, wooden crafts, bangles, and traditional decorations. It is a great opportunity to support local craftsmanship while taking home unique souvenirs.
- Folk Performances
As evening arrives, music fills the air. Folk dancers, drummers, and cultural troupes perform near the Bull Temple, celebrating Karnataka’s rich artistic traditions. From Yakshagana storytelling to Bharatanatyam recitals, the performances add rhythm to the festive atmosphere.
- Street Food Heaven
No Indian fair is complete without food — and Kadalekai Parishe Bengaluru is a treat for food lovers. From crispy dosas and spicy churmuri to sweet holige and badam milk, every corner smells delicious. You can easily spend hours tasting everything!
History and Cultural Significance
The Kadalekai Parishe festival in Karnataka is more than 400 years old. Historians trace it back to the times of Kempe Gowda, the founder of Bengaluru. He encouraged farmers to offer their first harvest to Nandi as a thanksgiving act to protect their fields.
This ritual has survived centuries of urban change. Even as Bengaluru evolved into a modern metropolis, this humble celebration of land and labor continues to unite people across generations.
Today, Kadalekai Parishe stands as a symbol of gratitude — reminding everyone that no matter how fast the city grows, its heart still beats in tradition.
How to Reach the Kadalekai Parishe Venue
- By Metro: Take the Green Line to National College or Lalbagh Metro Station. The temple is a 10-minute walk from there.
- By Bus: BMTC buses frequently connect Basavanagudi from Majestic, Shivajinagar, and Jayanagar.
- By Auto/Taxi: You can reach Bull Temple Road easily by cab or auto, though parking is limited during the fair days.
Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to experience the ritual offerings and avoid crowds.
Capturing Kadalekai Parishe 2025 – Photography Tips
For photographers, Kadalekai Parishe is a festival full of colors, faces, and moments.
Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Capture the early morning rituals for a golden hue.
- Focus on farmers’ hands, groundnut baskets, and street vendors.
- Use wide-angle shots to show the crowded streets and temples glow at dusk.
- Be respectful during temple ceremonies — no flash inside.
Sharing your photos with hashtags like #KadalekaiParishe2025 #GroundnutFestivalBengaluru #BasavanagudiBullTemple can help reach travelers on social media.
Nearby Attractions to Explore
While visiting Basavanagudi for the festival, explore these nearby gems:
- Dodda Ganesha Temple – A few meters from the Bull Temple, home to a massive monolithic Ganesha idol.
- Bugle Rock Park – Great for an evening walk under the trees.
- Gandhi Bazaar Market – A vibrant traditional market for flowers, spices, and silk.
- Lalbagh Botanical Garden – Perfect for nature lovers and morning walks.
Travel Tips for Visitors
Plan Ahead: Dates depend on the lunar calendar, so check local announcements before visiting.
- Dress Modestly: It’s a religious event, so traditional or simple attire is appreciated.
- Carry Cash: Many stalls don’t accept cards or UPI.
- Stay Hydrated: November afternoons can get warm; try local buttermilk or tender coconut water.
- Avoid Plastic: Carry cloth bags to support the eco-friendly spirit of the fair.
The Human Connection
What truly makes Kadalekai Parishe 2025 special is the emotion it carries. Watching farmers travel miles to offer their first produce, seeing children chase balloons, and hearing elders share old memories — all remind you that festivals like this keep the city’s soul alive.
Even in a fast-paced city like Bengaluru, there’s something deeply grounding about this celebration of earth, harvest, and humanity. It’s a reminder that progress means nothing without gratitude.
When you walk through the glowing lanes of Basavanagudi, surrounded by temple bells and the nutty scent of roasted kadalekai, you’ll understand — this is not just a fair. It’s a feeling.
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In conclusion, Whether you’re a tourist, a local, or a culture enthusiast, Kadalekai Parishe 2025 deserves a place on your travel list. It’s the perfect blend of faith, food, folk art, and festivity — a slice of Bengaluru’s timeless charm that refuses to fade with modernity.
This year, take a break from the malls and high-rises. Head to Basavanagudi Bull Temple and experience the warmth of a festival that celebrates gratitude, community, and the humble groundnut that started it all.