For the first time since its construction in 1931, the Krishna Raja Sagar (KRS) dam on the Cauvery River has reached its maximum storage level of 124.8 feet early in the monsoon season. Traditionally, the reservoir achieves full capacity in July or August when rainfall peaks, making this year’s early surge unprecedented.
To commemorate the occasion, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will become the first Karnataka CM to perform the Bagina ritual in June. The ceremony is scheduled for Monday at 11:30 am during the auspicious Abhijit Muhurta, with Vedic scholar Bhanuprakash Sharma leading the proceedings. Authorities have prepared 40 Bagina sets containing a ceremonial pot filled with nine grains (navadhanya), turmeric, vermilion, a saree, and bangles—traditional offerings symbolizing reverence to the river goddess.
Ahead of the ceremony, Cauvery Neeravari Nigama Limited has undertaken extensive preparations, including whitewashing the dam structure and hoisting Kannada flags to mark the milestone.
While farmers welcomed the early water availability as a boon for agriculture, they also voiced caution. Many stressed that lakes and canals across the district should be replenished before releasing any water to Tamil Nadu, to prevent future shortages.
Farmer Nanjundegowda emphasized that timely action is vital for sustaining agriculture and ensuring local water security. He urged authorities to prioritize filling all regional waterbodies to avoid distress during the later stages of the monsoon.