Udupi: The ninth edition of ‘Udupi Dandiya 2026’ will be held at the Kadiyali Higher Primary School grounds in Udupi on October 17, with dance competitions, cultural performances and special attractions planned for the evening.
Organised by the youth wing of the Kadiyali Sarvajanik Sri Ganeshotsava Samiti, the event will begin at 6 pm. The organisers announced the programme details at a press conference, highlighting the celebrations as part of the Navaratri festivities.
Indian women’s kabaddi player Dhanalakshmi Poojary, a member of the world champion women’s kabaddi team, will inaugurate the event.
Dance competitions and special attractions
Several competitions will be organised as part of Udupi Dandiya 2026, including Best Couple Dance, Best Costume, Best Group Dance and Best Children’s Costume.
A special Best Newlywed Couple Dance competition will be a major attraction this year. Couples who have completed their first wedding anniversary by October 17, 2026, will be eligible to participate in this category.
The organisers said special prizes would be awarded to winners across the competition categories. Participants interested in taking part can register directly at the venue.
Artists and cultural personalities to attend
Apart from Dhanalakshmi Poojary, National Film Award winner Roopashree Varkady and Bharatanatyam artiste Vidushi Deeksha are expected to attend the programme.
Deeksha has been recognised for an achievement in Bharatanatyam recorded in the Golden Book of World Records. Several artists from the Tulu film industry are also expected to participate, adding to the cultural appeal of the event.
Food stalls and fireworks planned
The school grounds are being decorated specially for the occasion, according to the organisers. Food stalls will also be set up for visitors.
A special fireworks display has been planned as part of the Navaratri celebrations.
Entry to the programme is free for visitors, including those attending to watch the dance competitions. The organisers have invited residents and visitors to participate in the celebration and enjoy the cultural activities.
Youth wing leads the organisation
The event is being organised under the leadership of the youth wing of the Kadiyali Sarvajanik Sri Ganeshotsava Samiti.
Youth wing president Pradeep Shetty announced the event details during the press conference. Youth wing honorary president Ashwath Devadiga Kadiyali, general secretary Shreyas Devadiga Kadiyali, treasurer Vignesh Prabhu and Vivek Kamath were also present.
With dance contests, cultural personalities, food stalls and fireworks, the ninth edition of Udupi Dandiya is expected to bring together families, young people and dance enthusiasts for an evening of festive entertainment.