From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - Bangalore

Bangalore, Nov 8: The world famous Hampi festival will be held from January 10, 2014 at Hampi, the capital of the once prosperous Vijayanagara Empire, in Bellary district.

A three-day annual cultural extravaganza would be inaugurated by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Minister of State for Labour P T Parameshwara Naik, who is also the district-in-charge minister for Bellary district, told reporters in Bangalore on Friday.

The State Government has decided to spent Rs 6 crore to hold the Hampi Festival, which will be an expressive forum to the maestros in the cultural field, to depict the rich historical and cultural heritage of the State to the outside world.

Efforts will also be made to mobilise more money from sponsors and conduct the festival, the minister said.

The United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has declared Hampi as a world heritage site and people  of the State are proud of the  fact, he explained.

All steps have been taken to safeguard the historical monuments at Hampi by providing round the clock security, Naik said.

Two stages named after Vijayanagara kingdom ruler Krishnadevaraya and former Deputy Chief Minister late M P Prakash would be established at Hampi to hold various cultural programmes.

Rudrambha Prakash, widow of M P Prakash, would be felicitated during the festival, Naik said.

M P Prakash, who was minister in various governments, started the Hampi festival, he said adding, the State Government has decided to continue the tradition.

Noted artistes from across the country would be invited to present cultural shows.

The Bellary district administration has made elaborate arrangements to conduct the festival on a grand manner, Naik added.