M'lore: Battle for 'Tulu Kesari' and 'Tulu Kumar' Title Begins in All Earnestness

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (SP)
Pics: Dayananda Kukkaje

Mangalore, Jun 29 : The big crowd that watched the wrestling competition for 'Tulu Kesari' and 'Tulu Kumar' titles that got under way on Saturday June 28 at U S Mallya Indoor Stadium in the city gave proof for the undying enthusiasm of the people of the district towards this predominantly male sport of wrestling, which has lost it's sheen in many of the districts. The heavy and continuous downpour could not dampen the spirits of the wresting fans. The crowd is expected to swell further on Sunday.

The competition is being organised by Dakshina Kannada District Wrestling Federation. The 34th annual event can also be treated as highly successful one, in view of the fact that many young wrestlers have entered the arena this year. The title holders will be decided by today evening.

Those who drew attention on the first day were Jagadish, a construction worker from Sasihithlu who earlier this year, had humbled a wrestler from Uttar Pradesh in a open tournament held at Kuloor earlier this year.  He is being trained by veteran wrestler Sathish Bolar.

Rakesh Putran, a runner up last year, hopes to annexe the 'Tulu Kumar' title this year. I have come with lot of preparations, he said. Preliminary rounds were held on Saturday.