Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Sep 29: Festive mood in the city reached a peak with Mangaluru Dasara.
Celebration at Kudroli temple was the main attraction. Thousands of devotees irrespective of caste or religion visited the temple. The nine 'Prathistapanas' of Goddess Durga remained the centre of attraction.
Long queues marked the entry to every temple in the city. People with family members flocked to religious sites. NRIs and Mangalureans living in other parts of the country arrived here for the festivities. Roads faced heavy traffic and buses were packed with passengers.
The tiger dance was certainly one of the unique attractions. Ballal Bhag street was occupied by tiger dance clubs which had members from age 5 to 60 years. Many tiger troupes roamed the city bringing with them a vibrant colour.
Decorative lights were another attraction. Every street and building was decorated with colourful lights and hoardings with Dasara greetings.
The district police made all arrangements to enable the celebrations to go smoothly. They appealed to the people to drive safe and cooperate with them in crowded areas.
District in-charge minister Ramanath Rai, MP Nalin Kumar Kateel, minister for food and civil supplies U T Khader, MLC Ivan D'Souza, MLA J R Lobo, MLA Mohiuddin Bava, mayor Kavita Sanil, former minister Krishna J Palemar, former union minister Janardhana Poojary, wished the people of Dakshina Kannada on the occasion.
The streets of the city were filled with flower vendors and celebrants partaking in the joy of the festival.