Udupi: A giant fish model made from more than 2,500 discarded plastic bottles, traditional art forms, rural handicrafts and displays promoting environmental conservation are drawing visitors to the exhibition organised as part of the Udupi Uchila Dasara Mahotsava at Sri Kshetra Uchila Mahalakshmi Temple.

Measuring approximately 23 feet in length and 11 feet in height, the fish-shaped installation is one of the major attractions at this year’s exhibition. Created by students of KPSK Memorial High School in Panjinadka under the guidance of artist Venkataramana Kamath, popularly known as Venki Palimaru, the artwork demonstrates how discarded materials can be reused creatively.

The installation also conveys a message about plastic waste management and environmental protection, encouraging visitors to consider the possibilities of recycling and responsible waste disposal.

Fish-shaped entrance welcomes visitors

The fish model serves as a distinctive attraction at the exhibition entrance, drawing the attention of devotees and other visitors attending the Dasara festivities.

Inside, visitors encounter a variety of artworks and displays highlighting environmental awareness, social contributions and the region’s cultural heritage. Replicas of environmentalists Saalumarada Thimakka and Sukri Bommagowda feature among the exhibits, recognising their contributions to environmental conservation and community life.

A replica of Queen Abbakka of Ullal adds a historical dimension to the exhibition. Information panels explaining the history and social awakening of the Mogaveera community further enrich the displays, connecting local heritage with the festival’s wider cultural themes.

The exhibition brings together environmental messaging, historical narratives and traditional craftsmanship, offering visitors a varied experience beyond the religious celebrations.

Rural life and traditional handicrafts on display

Several stalls showcase rural lifestyles, agricultural traditions, folk culture and handicrafts. Art enthusiasts can explore wood carvings, coconut and coconut-shell creations, bamboo products, clay dolls, metal artwork, resin art and other handcrafted items.

These displays highlight the creativity of local artisans and the use of natural and locally available materials in traditional craft-making.

A model resembling a traditional rural home is another attraction, offering visitors a glimpse of village architecture and everyday life. Together, the stalls present aspects of rural heritage that are increasingly important to preserve and showcase to younger generations.

The range of exhibits also gives artisans and creators an opportunity to display their work before the large number of people visiting the Uchila Dasara Mahotsava.

Folk art and imaginative creations capture attention

The exhibition features a diverse collection of artistic works, including wall art by Shalini Shankar, creations from Siri Arts and folk masks by Yatish Kidiyoor.

Ganesha idols and Yakshagana-themed artworks add to the cultural appeal. A model of a Yakshagana kirita, or traditional headdress, highlights the elaborate visual elements associated with the coastal Karnataka performance tradition.

Among the unusual exhibits are an idol of Lord Shiva crafted from nuts and bolts and another created using grains. An artistic replica of the Uchila Mahalakshmi Temple and a model of Mattu Gulla, the region’s distinctive local eggplant variety, also attract visitors.

Other displays include paintings on pots, artworks made from sticks, science-based designs and three-dimensional art installations. These exhibits are particularly engaging for children, encouraging curiosity about materials, design, science and creative expression.

The combination of traditional motifs and contemporary artistic techniques gives the exhibition a distinctive character.

Fisheries display introduces children to marine life

The Fisheries Department has supported a stall featuring different varieties of marine fish and ornamental fish. The display introduces visitors, particularly children, to aquatic life and the diversity of fish species.

The stall also aims to raise awareness about marine biodiversity, fishing practices and the importance of protecting the marine environment. By presenting fish varieties in an accessible format, it offers an educational component alongside the exhibition’s artistic and cultural displays.

A separate stall organised by the Horticulture Department adds another dimension to the exhibition, showcasing the department’s presence as part of the wider event.

The inclusion of fisheries and horticulture displays broadens the exhibition’s appeal, connecting art and culture with agriculture, livelihoods and environmental awareness.

Exhibition introduces a new theme every year

The exhibition is being developed around a distinctive theme each year, following a suggestion by G. Shankar, architect of the Dasara Mahotsava.

The initiative seeks to make the exhibition more varied and engaging by bringing together creative installations, traditional crafts, educational displays and elements of regional history.

The event has been organised with the cooperation of V.K. Yadav, Nityananda Karkera and Diwakar Karvi.

Yathish Kidiyoor, the exhibition convener, said more counters have been opened this year compared with the previous edition, expanding the range of exhibits available to visitors.

With its giant recycled-plastic fish, traditional handicrafts, folk art, historical displays and educational stalls, the exhibition has emerged as a prominent attraction at the Uchila Dasara Mahotsava. It combines the festive atmosphere with messages about environmental responsibility, cultural preservation and the value of creative reuse.