Mangaluru: In a magnificent display of culture and devotion, the annual National Children Festival’s ‘Sri Krishna Vesha Competition’ was celebrated with absolute grandeur on Friday at the historic Kadri Sri Manjunatha Temple. Organised by Kalkura Prathishtana, the mega event drew an overwhelming response, transforming the temple premises into a vibrant spectacle, as thousands of children donned traditional attire to celebrate the region’s rich heritage.The massive cultural festival successfully hosted competitions across 44 distinct categories simultaneously spread over 12 venues within the temple complex, running from early morning until midnight. Children of all ages enthusiastically participated in segments such as Thottila Krishna for infants, Muddu Krishna for toddlers, and traditional Yakshakrishna and Geetha Krishna for older students. In addition to solo performances, the festival saw heartwarming parent-child duets in categories like Yashoda Krishna and Devaki Krishna, alongside captivating group enactments in Nanda Gokula. Judges consistently prioritised natural charm and traditional authenticity over opulent costumes.Adding to the day’s significance, Mangaluru City South MLA D Vedavyas Kamath graced the festive occasion with his presence to cheer on the young participants.“I highly commend Kalkura Prathishtana for organising this magnificent event and consistently providing such a vital platform to nurture cultural awareness and showcase the hidden talents of our youth,” Kamath said. Highlighting the dedication of the parents in attendance, he added, “A special mention must go to the mothers who took the extra step to beautifully decorate their little ones and bring them for this competition on this auspicious day. It is through your dedication that our rich traditions continue to thrive.”Kalkura Prathishtana ensured the event remained entirely free and inclusive, with dedicated arrangements made to welcome and encourage disabled children. Adhering to the festival’s longstanding tradition of rewarding participation, every single competing child was honoured with a Panchaloha idol of Udupi Kadagolu Krishna, a copy of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, religious storybooks, and a certificate. With meticulously managed group photo sessions and complimentary refreshments for all participants, the mammoth festival concluded as a memorable cultural triumph for the city.
