Belthangady: K Vasantha Bangera cremated with state honours

Belthangady bid a solemn farewell to one of its iconic figures, K Vasant Bangera on Thursday. The funeral rites of the veteran politician were conducted with state honours, drawing crowds from far and wide to pay their last respects.

The somber proceedings commenced with the arrival of Bangera’s mortal remains at his ancestral home in Belthangadi Halekote at the break of dawn on May 9. A series of rituals ensued, culminating in the final darshan, allowing thousands to bid farewell.

At 8:45 am, a poignant procession led Bangera’s cortege to the Belthangadi Taluk Stadium, where an overwhelming sea of mourners gathered for a final glimpse. Among them were dignitaries including District Collector Mullai Muhilan, SP C.B. Rishyant, and MLA Harish Poonja, who paid their respects in a solemn ceremony marked by three rounds of gunshots.

Following the public viewing, the procession continued to Maddadka Kede Hosmane in Koovettu village, adhering to the traditions of the Billava community. There, amidst rituals, Bangera’s younger daughter, Binuta, performed the solemn duty of lighting the funeral pyre, symbolizing the end of an era.

The outpouring of grief extended beyond familial ties, as traders of Belthangadi and Maddadka shuttered their shops in homage to the departed leader. Political luminaries from across party lines, including Kota Srinivas Poojary, Abhayachandra Jain, and Ivan D’Souza, joined the crowds in paying their last respects, underscoring Bangera’s far-reaching influence and legacy.

The funeral proceedings were also attended by a host of esteemed personalities, including religious leaders, community elders, and prominent figures from various spheres of public life.