UDUPI: The ninth edition of Udupi Dandiya–2026 was held with enthusiasm at the Kadiyali Higher Primary School grounds on October 17, bringing together people of different age groups for an evening of music, dance and festive celebrations.
Organised by the youth wing of the Udupi Sarvajanik Ganeshotsava Samiti, Kadiyali, the event was part of the ongoing Navaratri festivities. Hundreds of participants dressed in colourful traditional attire gathered at the venue and took part in dandiya dancing to the rhythm of festive music.
The programme reflected the spirit of Navaratri, with children, youngsters and senior citizens joining the celebrations and adding to the lively atmosphere.
Hundreds participate in traditional dandiya
The Kadiyali school grounds came alive as participants moved to the beats of traditional dandiya music. Wearing vibrant ethnic outfits, attendees enthusiastically took part in the dance, making the event a colourful gathering for families and the local community.
The celebration provided an opportunity for people across generations to come together and enjoy the cultural traditions associated with Navaratri. The enthusiastic participation of children and young people added to the festive mood, while older participants also joined in the celebrations.
Udupi Dandiya has become a platform for the community to celebrate the festival through music, dance and cultural activities. The ninth edition continued this tradition, drawing a large gathering to Kadiyali.
Dignitaries attend the programme
Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna, former MLA K. Raghupathi Bhat and entrepreneur K. Udayakumar Shetty were among the prominent personalities present at the event.
Their participation added significance to the annual celebration, which was organised under the leadership of the youth wing of the Udupi Sarvajanik Ganeshotsava Samiti, Kadiyali.
The event also featured the felicitation of achievers and cultural programmes by children, recognising accomplishments and encouraging young participants to showcase their talents.
Celebrating culture and community spirit
Navaratri is marked by religious observances, cultural performances and community gatherings across Karnataka. Dandiya, traditionally associated with the festive season, brings people together through coordinated dance and music.
Udupi Dandiya–2026 offered residents an opportunity to participate in these traditions while enjoying an evening of cultural entertainment. The combination of dandiya performances, children’s programmes and the felicitation of achievers made the ninth edition a community-focused celebration.
The event concluded as another festive gathering in Udupi’s Navaratri calendar, highlighting the role of local organisations in sustaining cultural traditions and creating opportunities for community participation.