Vairamudi Festival is celebrated in the Melkote district of Karnataka. During this festival the principal deity of the district, Lord Cheluvarayaswamy, is worshipped. He is also popular as Chellapillai amongst the local people. Being one of the most auspicious places Melkote receives devotees from all over the state coming to participate in Vairamudi Festival. Several legends are associated with this festival in Karnataka. Devotees wait in front of the temple from early morning to catch a glimpse of the god. It is believed that one look at the lord can free them of all their miseries, purify them and help them to achieve salvation.
As per legends Vairamudi or the crown belonged to Lord Aniruddha. He dwelt in Kshirasagara. However, it was stolen by Prahlad`s son Virochana. The lord ordered Garuda to pursue him and bring Vairamudi back. Garuda followed the orders, defeated Virochana in a fight and recovered the crown. While returning he saw lord Krishna playing in Vrindavan with his friends and handed Vairamudi to him. He later went back to Kshirasagara and narrated the entire episode to his lord. It was Lord Krishna who gave away the crown to Lord Vairamudi. Hence this diamond dotted crow is called by this name.
The tradition of celebrating this festival dates back to 100 years. This festival is celebrated on the fourth day of Brahmotsavam. On this day the deities of Vishnu, Sridevi and Bhudevi are decorated with flowers. It is believed that the crown should not be seen during daytime. However, according to researchers Lord Cheluvarayaswamy was a scholar of Vedas. Vairamudi Festival, Karnataka is celebrated to mark his mastery of Vedic knowledge.
