Sharana Mela is observed at Koodala Sangama every year from
January 11 to January 15. It coincides with the Basava Kranti day which is
observed annually on Makar Sankranti day. More than one hundred thousand people
participate in the annual congregation.
Basavanna, or Basaveswara, founder and first saint of Lingayath
sect left his body through icchamarana (death at will by yogic way) and became
one with that absolute reality at Kudala Sangama.
Basavanna is believed to have merged with the Supreme Truth
on Makar Sankranti day.
People offer prayers and recite Vachanas on the day.
Satsang, prayer meetings and philosophical discussion take
place during the period.