Mangaluru: The vibrant ONGC-MRPL International Kite Festival 2025 is set to take flight with the unveiling of its mascot, Uriye – The Fiery Rooster of Tulunadu, at a launch event held at the Karavali Utsav Grounds, Lalbhag, Mangaluru. The mascot was officially launched by Mr. L. K. Atheeq, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister of Karnataka, marking the beginning of this much-anticipated festival.
Event highlights
The event witnessed the presence of several notable dignitaries, including:
- Mr. Manjunath Bhandari, MLC
- Mr. Mullai Muhilan, Deputy Commissioner of Dakshina Kannada District
- Mr. Krishna Hegde Miyar, Group General Manager (HR), ONGC MRPL
- CA Subhash Pai, General Manager (Finance), ONGC MRPL
- CA Giridhar Kamath and CA Nithin Shetty
- Mr. Sarvesh Rao, Founder, Team Mangalore
About Uriye
The mascot, Uriye, symbolises courage, cultural pride, and vibrancy, reflecting the ethos of Tulunadu. Designed by Proto Concepts, the fiery rooster with bright plumage represents the joy of flight and the festival’s deep cultural connection.
Festival details
The International Kite Festival, organised by Team Mangalore, will take place at Tannir Bavi Beach on January 18 and 19, 2025. This year’s edition will host 24 international kite flyers from countries including:
- Slovenia
- United Kingdom
- Germany
- Estonia
- Italy
- Malaysia
- Singapore
- Sweden
- Indonesia
- Greece
Additionally, India’s top kite-flying teams from states like Maharashtra, Kerala, Telangana, Odisha, Gujarat, and others will showcase their skills.
Spotlight on quad-line kites
This year, a highlight will be the quad-line sports kites, featuring stunt kite flyers from Greece demonstrating dynamic maneuvers and intricate displays.
Workshops and partnerships
To inspire the next generation, Team Mangalore and Alva’s Education Foundation, the festival’s Institutional Partner, will conduct workshops in the lead-up to the festival. These workshops will feature international kite flyers, fostering an appreciation for kite flying as a sport.
Other key partners include:
- The Ocean Pearl Inn, Hospitality Partner
- Madhuban Graphics, Print Partner
- Proto Concepts, Creative Partner
- Cherry’s Square, Event Management Partner
Team Mangalore’s legacy
Founded in 1998 by Mr. Sarvesh Rao, Team Mangalore has been instrumental in promoting kite flying while celebrating Tulunadu’s unique traditions. Over the years, the festival has become a global platform, showcasing Mangaluru’s rich heritage to the world.