Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru/Udupi (MS/NP)
Mangaluru, Sep 15: The International Day of Democracy was observed in Mangaluru and Udupi on Sunday, September 15.
The district administration organized the formation of a 130-km-long human chain in Dakshina Kannada district.
The human chain extended from Mukka to Kannur within MCC limits, with participation from students of various colleges and members of multiple organizations. At the event held in Kadri, deputy commissioner Mullai Mugilan read the Preamble to the Constitution. Participants included MP Capt Brijesh Chowta, mayor Sudhir Shetty Kannur, MLC Manjunath Bhandary, deputy mayor Sunita, and Mangaluru City Corporation opposition leader Praveenchandra Alva, among others.
Mangaluru
Udupi
The main attractions of the event were the Dollu dance by the Kurala Art Team, the Garudi Gombe dolls, and Chende music.
Meanwhile, the Udupi district made history by organizing a successful 107-kilometer-long human chain to commemorate the International Day of Democracy. This event, stretching from the Byndoor Shiroor toll gate to the Kaup Hejamadi toll gate, saw the participation of over 1 lakh individuals, including district and taluk-level officers, government servants, students, and members of various organizations.
The recitation of the Preamble to the Constitution, led by District Commissioner Dr Vidyakumari, highlighted the importance of democratic values. Participants included members of organizations such as Rotary, Lions, Red Cross, and cooperative societies, as well as local cultural troupes and educational institutions.
A key highlight of the event was the display of a 500-meter-long Indian and Karnataka flag, unfurled in prominent areas such as Maravanthe, Kundapur, and Kinnimulki, with the entire spectacle captured by drones. Cultural performances, including Yakshagana, and participants dressed as historical figures like Ambedkar, Buddha, and Basava, added vibrancy to the celebration.
Following the human chain, over 1,000 saplings were distributed to participants, promoting environmental awareness alongside democratic ideals. The event, praised as a massive success, reinforced the significance of democracy while celebrating the unity and cultural richness of the Udupi district.
Notable attendees included deputy commissioner Dr Vidyakumari, superintendent of police Dr Arun K, zilla panchayat CEO Prateek Bayal, district court Judge Kiran Siddappa Gangannavar, deputy director of the social welfare department for Udupi district Anitha V Madlur, Udupi city municipal council vice president Rajani Hebbar, district cooperatives union president Jayakar Shetty Indrali, Fr Charles Menezes, and others.