Mangaluru: The Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatha Kshetra administration committee has invited Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to inaugurate the historic ‘Mangaluru Dasara Mahotsava’, scheduled to be held from October 11 to 21 at the Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatha Temple.
The annual festival, celebrated at the sacred abode of Brahmashri Narayana Guru, is regarded as one of the prominent cultural celebrations of coastal Karnataka. It brings together the region’s traditions, cultural heritage and the message of equality associated with Narayana Guru.
Deputy Chief Minister invited to inaugurate festival
The invitation was extended by members of the Kshetra administration committee and the National Billava Mahamandala during their interaction with Shivakumar.
Kshetra administration committee president Jairaj H. Somasundaram, treasurer Padmaraj R. Poojary, trustees Santosh J. Poojary and Kishore Dandekeri, and development committee members Vedakumar, Leelaksha B. Karkera and Suryakanth J. Suvarna were among those present.
National Billava Mahamandala vice-president Prabhakar Bangera, treasurer Yogish Kumar Mulki and Karwar-based advocate G.T. Naik also participated in the meeting.
The dignitaries honoured Shivakumar by presenting him with the temple’s prasada and briefed him on the significance of the upcoming festival.
Festival celebrates Narayana Guru’s ideals
The delegation explained the cultural and spiritual importance of Mangaluru Dasara, including its celebration of the grandeur of the Navadurgas.
The festival has developed into a major cultural attraction while retaining its connection with the teachings and ideals of Brahmashri Narayana Guru.
Speaking about the invitation, Shivakumar expressed his appreciation for the festival and the significance of visiting the Kudroli Kshetra.
He said the temple itself offered a special experience and described participation in the festival as a matter of pride. He also highlighted the festival’s representation of Narayana Guru’s ideals and the cultural heritage of coastal Karnataka.
Mangaluru Dasara to be held from October 11
The Mangaluru Dasara Mahotsava will be held over 11 days from October 11 to 21.
The celebrations at Kudroli have traditionally attracted large numbers of devotees and visitors and showcase religious traditions alongside the cultural richness of the coastal region.
The festival’s emphasis on equality and social harmony, along with its grand celebrations dedicated to the Navadurgas, has contributed to its prominence in the cultural calendar of coastal Karnataka.
The administration committee is expected to finalise preparations and arrangements ahead of the festivities.
Shivakumar receives Kambala Award-2026
During the occasion, Shivakumar was also honoured with the Kambala Award-2026 instituted by Namma Kudla.
The award was presented in the presence of several dignitaries, including Namma Kudla channel director Leelaksha B. Karkera.
The honour added another highlight to the interaction, which centred on the upcoming Dasara celebrations and the cultural traditions of the region.
With preparations for the Mangaluru Dasara Mahotsava underway, the invitation to the Deputy Chief Minister to inaugurate the festival has added further significance to this year’s celebrations.