Karavali Utsav Inaugurated, Showcasing Coastal Karnataka’s Heritage

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Dec 22, 2024: Dakshina Kannada District In-charge Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao inaugurated the much-awaited Karavali Utsav, a festival celebrating the vibrant heritage of coastal Karnataka, on Saturday at the Karavali Utsav Grounds.

The event commenced with a colorful cultural procession featuring regional troupes that marched along Mahatma Gandhi Road before culminating at the Utsav Grounds. Speaking on the occasion, Minister Rao highlighted the festival’s potential to boost tourism in the region, crediting the collaborative efforts of various academies for its success.

Key dignitaries, including Deputy Commissioner M.P. Mullai Muhilan, City Police Commissioner Anupam Agrawal, Zilla Panchayat CEO K. Anandh, Superintendent of Police N. Yatish, Deputy Conservator of Forests Anthony S. Mariappa, and representatives from the Tulu, Beary, and Konkani academies, graced the occasion.

Heli-Taxi Service Launched
Earlier in the day, Padma Shri awardees Harekala Hajabba and Amai Mahalinga Naik inaugurated a heli-taxi service at the Mary Hill Helipad by taking a ride themselves.

Deputy Commissioner Muhilan said the heli-taxi service aims to enhance the festival experience, offering visitors a unique perspective of Mangaluru’s scenic beauty, including its beaches and riverfronts. The seven-minute ride, priced at ₹4,500 per person, is being operated by a private company.

Month-long Karavali Utsav Highlights
Karavali Utsav, which runs until January 19, offers a host of attractions, including:
* Beach Festival on December 28 and 29 at Tannirbhavi and Panambur beaches.
* Robotic Butterfly Exhibition at Kadri Park from December 22 to January 19, between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m.
*Automobile and Dog Show on January 4 and 5.
*Yuva Utsav at Kadri Park on January 11 and 12.
*International Kite Festival on January 18 and 19 at Tannirbhavi Beach.