The coastal city of Mangaluru is set to come alive with the vibrant Karavali Utsava, a major annual festival celebrating the region's rich heritage. The event, officially named Karavali Utsava-2025-26, will span a significant period from December 20, 2025, to January 4, 2026.
A Collaborative Effort for a Grand Celebration
This large-scale festival is a joint initiative organized by the Dakshina Kannada district administration, the zilla panchayat, and various local associations. Deputy Commissioner Darshan H.V. announced the detailed plans to reporters, highlighting a diverse blend of cultural, sports, and entertainment activities designed to attract visitors from across the region.
The inauguration is scheduled for December 20 at the Karavali Utsava Maidan, featuring grand cultural programmes in the presence of public representatives. The main grounds will serve as the central hub throughout the festival, hosting various stalls, exhibitions, and an amusement park for public enjoyment.
Highlights and Special Events
The festival calendar is packed with unique attractions. Every Saturday and Sunday, the venue will showcase special coastal art and cultural exhibitions. The finale weekend of the core festival, January 3 and 4, promises high-energy 'Musical Night' events featuring popular Sandalwood and Bollywood artistes. These concerts will be held simultaneously at three scenic beach locations: Panambur, Tannirbavi, and Sasihithlu.
However, the festivities extend well beyond the first week of January. Deputy Commissioner Darshan explained that special programmes will continue through January and February. The schedule includes several standout events:
- Helicopter rides every Saturday and Sunday from December 20 at the Sahyadri College Grounds.
- Kala Parba, an dedicated art festival, from January 9 to 11 on Kadri Park Road.
- A fruit and flower exhibition at Kadri Park on Republic Day, January 26.
- An exciting triathlon at Tannirbhavi Beach from January 9 to 11.
- An international kite festival on January 17 and 18.
- A lively beach festival from January 23 to 25 at the district's major beaches.
Budget and Financial Planning
The district administration has laid out a comprehensive financial plan for the ambitious event. The total budget for the Karavali Utsava is approximately Rs 2.5 crore. To fund this, the organizers have requested a grant of Rs 1.5 crore from the government. Additionally, they plan to collect Rs 1 crore in donations through advertisements from local companies.
Revenue generation is also part of the model, with an expected income of around Rs 30 lakh from stall rentals. The process for this has already begun, with tenders being called for interested vendors. The announcement meeting was attended by key officials including ZP CEO Narwade Vinayak Karbhari, Additional Deputy Commissioner K. Raju, DCP Mithun H.N., and Deputy Director of Tourism Dileep Kumar.
The Karavali Utsava 2025-26 is poised to be a major economic and cultural catalyst for Mangaluru, showcasing the best of the Karavali coast's traditions while offering modern entertainment, thus boosting local tourism and community spirit.
