Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Oct 15: Karnataka chief minister D K Shivakumar inaugurated the Women’s Dasara celebrations as part of Udupi Ucchila Dasara 2026 at the Sri Mahalakshmi temple in Ucchila, Kaup taluk, Udupi district, on Thursday, October 15.
During his visit, the chief minister offered prayers at the Mahalakshmi temple and later performed pooja to the idol of Goddess Sharada. He also paid floral tributes to the statue of the late Madhava Mangal Poojary, the revered spiritual leader of the Mogaveera community.
Shivakumar unveiled a unique artwork depicting himself, created using various grains, at the temple’s exhibition premises. He also unveiled the poster for the Ucchila Tiger Dance celebrations and received a felicitation from the temple committee.
The Women’s Dasara is among the key attractions of Udupi Ucchila Dasara, which celebrates the spirit of Navaratri while highlighting women’s participation in cultural and religious activities.
Addressing the gathering, the chief minister extended his festive greetings in Tulu. He announced that the state government would formulate separate tourism policies for the coastal and Malnad regions, with the aim of developing coastal Karnataka into a world-class tourism destination.
Recalling his earlier visit to the temple as deputy chief minister, Shivakumar said it was a privilege to seek the blessings of the goddess once again, this time as chief minister and a public servant.
Emphasising the importance of women’s empowerment, he said it was the key to societal progress. He described Goddess Mahalakshmi as a symbol of wealth, Goddess Saraswati as a symbol of knowledge, and Goddess Mahakali as a symbol of strength.
The chief minister said that fisherwomen had submitted several demands, including interest-free loans and the construction of fishing harbours. However, as the model code of conduct was in force, he said the government would not make any announcements at present. He assured that the demands would be discussed with officials in Bengaluru and appropriate action would be taken.
Shivakumar also stated that the state cabinet had taken a decision regarding the establishment of a park in Karkala to create employment opportunities in the coastal region. He added that the government would give priority to the development of temple tourism as part of its broader tourism initiatives.
Stressing the need to prevent the migration of young people, the chief minister said the government was committed to creating local employment opportunities while preserving the region’s art, culture, and language.
Describing Dasara as more than just a festival, Shivakumar said it also served as a catalyst for economic activity. He called upon people to rise above caste and religious differences and give priority to humanity.
Minister U T Khader, Rizwan Arshad, MP Kota Srinivas Poojary, MLAs Mankal Vaidya, Yashpal Suvarna, and Gurme Suresh Shetty, legislative council members Manjunath Bhandary and Ivan D’Souza, KPCC campaign committee president Vinay Kumar Sorake, coastal development board chairman M A Gafur, former MLAs Lalaji Mendon and Gopal Poojary, and Udupi district Congress committee president Kishan Hegde were among those present on the occasion, along with other dignitaries.