FOR AMITY: The `Sadbhavana Padayatra' being taken out in Hubli on Tuesday to call for peaceful Holi celebrations.

HUBLI: Religious heads and leaders of various communities, including Muslim, Christian and Sikh, took part in a `Sadbhavana Padayatra' organised here on Tuesday before `Ranga Panchami,' which will be celebrated on Wednesday.

In the padayatra led by Sri Gurusiddha Rajayogindra Swamiji of Moorusavira Math, Basha Peera represented Muslims, Reverend Ullagaddi represented Christians, and Sikhs were represented by Kirpal Singh Bhamra. Revenue Minister Jagadish Shettar and the former Ministers Jabbar Khan Honnalli and A.M. Hindasgeri also took part in the padayatra.

Sensitive areas covered

The padayatra, which started from Moorusavira Math, passed through several areas that the police consider sensitive, and ended at Hazrat Syed Fateh-Shavali Dargah in Old Hubli where a public meeting was held with a call for a peaceful celebration of the festival of colours. Prayers were offered at temples and dargahs along the route of the padayatra.

North-west Karnataka Road Transport Corporation chairman Ashok Katwe, some former Mayors of the twin cities, office-bearers of Anjuman-e-Islam and others took part in the padayatra.

Hubli has generally been peaceful during Holi celebrations of late.

But every year, as the festival approaches, there is tension in the air both among the people and also officials about possible disturbance of the peace.

The padayatra, started by the head of Moorusavira Math, is an annual affair.

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