Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)
Mangaluru, Jan 12: The Kala Parba art festival is a vibrant celebration that brings together artists from diverse disciplines to showcase their talents in one immersive event. This dynamic gathering unites visual artists, musicians, dancers, performers, and creators from all corners of the creative world, offering audiences a unique opportunity to experience a wide variety of art forms in one place. From stunning visual exhibits to captivating performances, the festival serves as a platform for artists to express their creativity, exchange ideas, and engage with an enthusiastic community, making it a must-attend event for art lovers and cultural explorers alike.
The Kadri Park road was transformed into a vibrant and refreshing space as the Sharadhi Prathishtana Trust, led by Punik Shetty, created a perfect platform for artists to gather at Kadri Park through Kala Parba.
Deputy commissioner Mullai Muhilan, mayor Manoj Kumar, superintendent of police Yathish, MLA Vedavyas Kamath, zilla panchayat CEO Dr Anand, Astra Group owner Lanchulal, and others participated in the two-day inaugural event of Kala Parba.
The art festival drew a large crowd, offering a unique experience unlike anything they had encountered before. It provided an opportunity to raise awareness about the significance of art, interact with creative minds, and explore a diverse range of artistic expressions.
More than 120 artist stalls were set up, displaying a wide range of art forms.
Artist Prashanth showcased micro-art created on chalk pieces and using pencil, as well as art made from M-seal. He has been practicing this craft for 16 years. Other notable stalls included Padmas Handicrafts from Kulai, CE Institute of Artisans from Karkala, oil paintings by YN Tharnath, Art Space, Alvas Visual Art, Prasad Art Gallery, Kalabharathi School of Art, Shangrila Art Gallery, speed paintings by Abhishek Thirthahalli (highlighting Indian aesthetics), spot caricatures, portrait paintings, BGM School of Art from Chilimbi, coffee art by Jane Noronha, Anvesham by Shwetha Kamath, art by Anudeep Karkera, Colors of Mangalore, artwork by Ganesh Somayaji, student artwork from St Aloysius High School, cartoons by John Chandran, Ashutosh Resin Arts and Crafts, clay art, and seashell artwork by state awardee Saku Pangala.
In addition to the art displays, cultural events and competitions were held, including a musical performance by Ankush Nayak and his team, a drawing competition for children, and a Siddi Damami dance performance by Pannika Siddi and her team from the Siddi community.
Environmentalists also raised awareness in creative ways, highlighting the dangers of plastic use, the importance of protecting the Nethravathi River, and the significance of environmental conservation.
Yoga sessions, drawing competitions, makeup and mehendi contests, and more will take place on January 12.