Mangaluru: Dakshina Kannada District In-charge Minister U T Khader has directed officials to organise the Karavali Utsav in December with a wide range of cultural, literary, entertainment and adventure programmes to attract people of all age groups, including tourists.
Chairing a preparatory meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Padil on Sunday, November 1, Khader stressed that the festival should showcase the rich folk arts, culture and traditions of the coastal region. He called for a platform for local artists and performances by nationally renowned cultural groups to make the celebrations more vibrant.
The minister said the programmes should appeal to young people, senior citizens and visitors while highlighting the region’s distinctive cultural identity.
Cultural events and coastal traditions to take centre stage
Khader directed officials to give importance to traditional coastal sports, beach festivals and a food festival featuring local cuisine. He also proposed a series of activities aimed at making the festival more engaging for residents and tourists.
The proposed attractions include helicopter rides, a triathlon, vintage car rallies, motorcycle stunt shows and yoga sessions. These activities are expected to add an adventure and recreational dimension to the festival.
The minister also suggested organising cultural performances and musical programmes that would provide opportunities for local talent while bringing artists from across the country to the coastal region.
Food, horticulture and entertainment attractions
The proposed festival programme includes food and horticulture exhibitions, street food events and a seafood festival highlighting the culinary traditions of the coast.
Fruit and flower shows are also among the suggested attractions. Other proposed events include musical programmes, cultural performances, film and folk festivals, dog shows and local livestock exhibitions.
Special competitions and programmes for women will also be organised as part of the celebrations.
The minister asked officials to plan the activities in a way that offers a variety of experiences to visitors and reflects the cultural and natural richness of the coastal region.
Special focus on Tulu language and culture
Highlighting the recent recognition of Tulu as a second official language, Khader directed officials to organise a grand event showcasing Tulu literature, language and cultural heritage.
The proposed event is intended to provide greater visibility to Tulu and celebrate its contribution to the identity and traditions of coastal Karnataka.
The minister emphasised that the Karavali Utsav should serve as a platform to promote the region’s cultural heritage while encouraging public participation.
Officials attend preparatory meeting
The preparatory meeting was attended by State Minimum Wages Advisory Board Chairman T M Shaheed, Deputy Commissioner Darshan H V, Police Commissioner Sudhir Kumar Reddy, Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Narwade Vinayak Karbhari and Mangaluru City Corporation Commissioner Rahul Rathnam Pandey.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Raju, officials from various government departments and representatives of different organisations were also present.
Officials are expected to work on the proposed programmes and make the necessary arrangements for the December festival. The detailed schedule and venues are yet to be announced.