Bengaluru, August 20, 2026: Karnataka Christa Sanghatane has urged the Karnataka Government to declare September 8 as a government holiday to enable members of the Christian community to observe the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, traditionally celebrated as a special religious and harvest festival.
In a memorandum dated August 18, 2026, the organisation said September 8 holds special significance for Christians, particularly because it commemorates the birth of the Virgin Mary. The day is also observed by many Christian communities as a harvest festival, locally referred to as Koyilu Habba.
According to the memorandum, Christians mark the occasion by offering the first produce of the harvest to God, attending special prayers and religious services in churches, and gathering with family members for communal meals.
The organisation highlighted the contribution of the Christian community to education, healthcare and social service in Karnataka. It stated that Christians, despite constituting around two per cent of the population, have been involved in social and charitable activities without discrimination based on caste or religion.
Special request for Dakshina Kannada and Udupi
Karnataka Christa Sanghatane has made a specific appeal for Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, citing the significant presence of the Christian community in these areas.
The organisation has requested the state government to consider September 8 as a government holiday in these districts so that members of the community can participate in religious observances and traditional celebrations without hindrance.
The memorandum further urged the government to examine the request sympathetically and take an appropriate decision.
The demand comes at a time when the Karnataka Legislature is holding its 10th session of the 16th Assembly from August 13 to August 27, 2026.
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