Mangaluru: Alva’s Virasat and Nudisiri will be organised jointly as a five-day cultural and literary extravaganza at Moodbidri from January 6 to 10, 2027. Alva’s Education Foundation chairman Dr Mohan Alva announced the dates and programme highlights at a press conference on Thursday.

The combined festival, titled ‘Alva’s Nudisiri-Virasat’, will mark the 31st edition of Virasat and the 17th edition of Nudisiri. This year’s central theme, ‘Kannada Manassu: Bhavishyada Kanasu’, focuses on empowering young people and envisioning a progressive Karnataka by bringing science and technology together with Kannada language and cultural identity.

The event is expected to attract writers, artists, students and cultural enthusiasts from across Karnataka and other parts of the country.

Narahalli Balasubrahmanya to preside over Nudisiri

Literary critic Narahalli Balasubrahmanya will preside over Nudisiri, while senior journalist Vishweshwar Bhat will inaugurate the convention.

The literary programme is expected to provide a platform for discussions on Kannada language, literature, culture and the aspirations of the younger generation. The chosen theme highlights the importance of preserving linguistic and cultural identity while embracing scientific progress and technological change.

The organisers aim to encourage young people to engage with Kannada in contemporary contexts and contribute to the state’s cultural and intellectual development.

Virasat to open with cultural procession and Ganga Aarti

Virasat will begin on the evening of January 6 with a grand cultural chariot procession, followed by a traditional Ganga Aarti performed by a troupe from Haridwar.

Two eminent personalities representing classical and folk traditions will be honoured with the Virasat Awards in recognition of their contributions.

Speaking at the press conference, Dr Mohan Alva said the festival would continue to provide a major platform for talented young artists from across the country. He stressed that the focus would remain on identifying promising talent, encouraging artists and providing them with opportunities to perform.

He also emphasised the need to support artists without allowing excessive commercial demands to overshadow the festival’s cultural purpose.

Vidyarthisiri and Yuvasiri to engage students and youth

The five-day event will include special programmes for students and young people.

Alva’s Vidyarthisiri will be held on January 8, while Alva’s Yuvasiri is scheduled for January 9. These programmes will form part of the festival’s wider focus on youth participation, education and cultural engagement.

By combining literary discussions, artistic performances and student-oriented activities, the organisers intend to create opportunities for younger generations to connect with Karnataka’s cultural traditions while exploring future possibilities.

Hasiru Samvada to focus on coastal river conservation

A special initiative titled ‘Hasiru Samvada’ will focus on the conservation of coastal rivers across 50 villages.

The initiative is expected to draw attention to the importance of protecting river ecosystems and encouraging public participation in environmental conservation. Coastal rivers play an important role in the lives and livelihoods of communities across the region, making their conservation a significant local concern.

The inclusion of the initiative adds an environmental dimension to the cultural festival, connecting community participation with the broader objective of sustainable development.

Scouts and Guides Jamboree to attract over 5,000 participants

A state-level Scouts and Guides Jamboree will also be organised as part of the festival, with more than 5,000 participants expected to attend.

The gathering will add a major youth engagement component to the programme, bringing together participants from different parts of the state.

In addition, free fine arts training will be provided to around 800 artists. The initiative is intended to encourage artistic skills and provide opportunities for participants to develop their creative abilities.

Five exhibitions to showcase diverse fields

Five major exhibitions focusing on agriculture, science, food, literature and art will be among the key attractions of Alva’s Nudisiri-Virasat.

The exhibitions are expected to offer visitors opportunities to explore a wide range of subjects, from agricultural practices and scientific developments to literary works and artistic traditions.

Together with the cultural performances, literary sessions, youth programmes and environmental initiative, the exhibitions will contribute to the festival’s broad-based approach to education and cultural exchange.

Moodbidri to host five days of culture and literature

With Virasat and Nudisiri coming together, the January festival will combine performing arts, literary discussions, student activities, exhibitions and environmental awareness programmes under one umbrella.

The event reflects the Alva’s Education Foundation’s continued emphasis on promoting Kannada language and culture while providing opportunities for young artists and students.

Alva’s Nudisiri-Virasat will be held at Moodbidri from January 6 to 10, 2027, with organisers expecting participation from across Karnataka and beyond.