Media Release

Udupi, Oct 1: The Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration (WGSHA), MAHE, Manipal, marked World Tourism Day with an engaging field trip for the final year BHM, BACA, and MHM council members. The event took place on September 27, at Kudru Nest, Kemmannu, Udupi, where students immersed themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Dakshina Karnataka.

The students were welcomed with a traditional dance named Holi Kulita, origins of which date back to the empire of Shivaji Maharaj, once they stepped into the premises of Kudru Nest. The event started off by lighting the lamp by Dr chef K Thirugnanasambantham, principal, WGSHA, Dr Rajashekhar P, vice principal, WGSHA and Raghu, owner of the Resort cum Homestay and also a famous photographer.

Followed by it, there was a speech by the presidents of BHM and BACA, after which chef. Thiru gave his speech emphasising on how tourism builds peace and bonding between individuals, something which Raghu was able to achieve through his magnificent property and excellent service. He also highlighted how well the place had infused local culture, cuisine and tradition into its operations, and how well his patrons too had started to accept it.

Students got an opportunity to explore practices and art rooted into Dakshina Karnataka's heritage once the inaugural ceremony was over. It started with showing them how a cockfight takes place, educating them about its rules. It was followed by a demonstration of fishing, mainly highlighting how to wield a fishing rod, how to stick a bait to it, kinds of baits that can be used etc.

The students got to experience how to prepare and cook typical Dakshina Karnataka dishes, namely prawns ghee roast and natti chicken sukka. It stemmed from cleaning the meat using a sickle to marinating it effectively using the spices and then cooking it, using a stove made using wood. Dr chef K Thiru took an active interest in practically involving himself, wherein chef Dayanad Prabhu, chef Nischal Kumar and chef Ajith Anantarama Nayak, chef Nithish D and chef Manish TK assisted him along with the students.

Apart from the culinary side of the tour, the students also observed the art of weaving bamboo articles, like baskets etc. Also, they got a chance to make beautiful flower art using the GI tagged Shankarapura Mallige and also make small baskets using Jackfruit Leaves.

The main spotlight of the programme was huli vesha or tiger dance, wherein the faculties and students involved themselves actively. It all started with the students and faculties face painting themselves, and then dancing to the rhythm of the beats.

This celebration of World Tourism Day not only enriched the students' knowledge and skills but also fostered a deeper appreciation for the local culture and traditions that shape the tourism landscape.