Paddy and Slush: Where Farmers Work and Children Play

With heavy rains soaking the coastal districts of Karnataka, farmers have returned to their paddy fields, and the youth have eagerly joined in the festivities, reveling in the mud and slush. The Kesard Onji Dina events, organized by various clubs, associations, and villages, are aimed at preserving traditions and educating the younger generations.

This annual event, held during the Aati month (July/August in the Tulu calendar), sees children and youth enthusiastically participating in games and activities in the muddy fields. The atmosphere is filled with competitive spirit as participants run through the fields, splashing muck on each other. Despite frequent tumbles in the slippery terrain, they quickly get back up, driven by the sheer joy of the event.

Local games such as theppangai (a rugby-like game involving carrying coconuts), pulling areca fronds, running in gunny bags, slush races, kabaddi, and volleyball are played in various categories for children, men, and women. These activities not only entertain but also help in fostering a deeper connection with agricultural practices.

The Kolthige Yuvaka Mandala organized one such event this weekend. President Bharathraj Kudkuli shared, “This is the second year we have organized the event, mainly to create awareness among children about paddy fields and agriculture. Children also got the opportunity to plant paddy. We served traditional Tulu delicacies prepared during the Aati month to all attendees. More than a thousand people, of all ages, enjoyed the games and festivities.”