Mangaluru – The Param Jyoti Bhajana Mandali in Alape Padil came alive on Thursday with vibrant traditions and community spirit as it hosted the Aati Donji Day celebrations, a symbolic reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Tulu Nadu.
The program began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by chief guests including Prashanth Shetty, Ramesh, Bhaskar Chandra Shetty, Kiran Rai, Roop Muralidhar, Jayanti, and Sukesh Ram Prasad. In his address, Prashanth Shetty spoke passionately about the historical and cultural significance of Aati, a month deeply rooted in local customs and culinary traditions.
Highlighting the spirit of the occasion, residents of the area prepared and shared over 35 traditional dishes unique to the Aati season. These delicacies, crafted from locally sourced ingredients, offered a true taste of Tulu Nadu’s heritage. Among them, Aati Kalinja stood out as the star attraction, drawing praise from attendees for its distinctive flavor and cultural relevance.
The gathering not only celebrated food but also strengthened community bonds, ensuring that younger generations stay connected to their roots. Through events like these, the Param Jyoti Bhajana Mandali continues to play a vital role in preserving the age-old customs of the region while fostering unity and pride among its people.