From Kodagu to North Karnataka and from Tamil and Bengali communities to those from the North-East, people who have made Bengaluru their home will take to the streets around Vidhana Soudha in traditional attire on Independence Day as part of the State government’s newly announced Freedom Habba.

The theme for the event is “Namma Ooru. Nimma Ooru. Ellara Bengaluru”.

Announcing the initiative on Wednesday, Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda said the day-long celebrations are planned to transform Vidhana Soudha into a cultural corridor, with community parades, folk performances, music, crafts and regional cuisine replacing the usual Independence Day celebrations. “Freedom is best celebrated when the people themselves become the celebration,” the Minister said.

The event will begin after the official Independence Day function at Parade Ground and continue till 10 p.m. Roads leading to Vidhana Soudha will host nearly 40 contingents representing different regions of Karnataka and communities from across the country that have settled in Bengaluru.

Participants will showcase traditional attire, folk arts, music and dance reflecting the city’s diversity.

The programme will also include an exhibition on India’s freedom movement, district pavilions highlighting Karnataka’s contribution to the Independence struggle, a Constitution Square, a 200-foot public art wall, Soul Sante craft and food stalls, and an evening music concert.

Moreover, as part of the programme, the government will open Vidhana Soudha to children and their families through guided tours, including access to the Assembly Hall.

Mr. Byre Gowda said the government wants citizens to participate in the celebrations as performers, volunteers and cultural ambassadors. He added that a dedicated website and helpline for registrations to various events and activities will be announced within the next 48 hours.

The celebrations will conclude with a music concert featuring performances in Kannada and other Indian languages, followed by a fireworks display over Vidhana Soudha.

Published - August 05, 2026 07:29 pm IST