Report and Photos by Dayananda Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network
Bahrain, Apr 9: The vibrant spirit of Tulunadu culture came alive once again as Bahrain witnessed the grand celebration of Kudlotsava 2025 at the Delmon International Hotel. The mega cultural event, organized under the leadership of Anand Lobo, began at 7:30 PM and continued into the early hours of the next day.
The evening opened with a heartwarming Arabic welcome dance performed by young children, setting the tone for a night full of color, culture, and creativity. This was followed by a graceful semi-classical performance choreographed by Ansul Ghani, featuring 14 children who offered a traditional welcome to the gathering.
Prominent dignitaries graced the occasion, including senior BJP leader from Chikmagalur CT Ravi and MLC Ivan D’Souza, who was felicitated on stage and addressed the audience as the Guest of Honour. The Chief Guest of the evening, the Hon. Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, was warmly received by Kudlotsava’s main organizer and welcomed on stage by Mr. U.T. Khader. Both dignitaries shared brief and inspiring messages with the audience.
A series of dazzling cultural performances followed, including energetic dance numbers and a special creative act by renowned performer Ashok Pulali from India. Adding a unique spark to the evening, Daijiworld TV’s popular entertainment duo Walter Nandalike and Aravind Bolar performed two live segments of their hit show Private Challenge, drawing loud applause from the audience.
The much-awaited Kudlostava Grand Finale 2025 captivated audiences with a spectacular display of talent, tradition, and elegance. A total of nine finalists graced the runway—six from Mangalore and three from Bahrain—in a glamorous showdown that celebrated the spirit of Kudla beyond borders.
The coveted title of Miss Kudla Bahrain 2025 was clinched by Ferrel Rodrigues, whose poise and performance impressed both the judges and the audience. The First Runner-Up crown was awarded to Mangalore’s very own Janika D’Souza, while Grishma secured the Second Runner-Up position, rounding off a fiercely competitive top three.
The pageant featured three dynamic rounds:
- A Traditional Lehenga Round that highlighted rich cultural aesthetics.
- A glitzy Party Wear Round showcasing modern style and confidence.
- The highlight of the evening—a unique Christian Bridal Gown Round, which left the audience mesmerized with its elegance and creativity.
This grand fashion sequence was choreographed by Wencita Dias, founder of Wenz Modelling Academy, who also personally trained the six Mangalore-based finalists, including the crown winner. A multi-talented personality, Wencita is not only a fashion choreographer but also an actor.
As part of its commitment to inclusivity and community service, Kudlotsava 2025 conferred special honours on three individuals from different communities for their outstanding contributions in the fields of humanitarian work, culture, and education:
- Haji Abdul Razak (Bahrain)
- Ravi Shetty (Qatar)
- Cletus Rodrigues
The event was also graced by notable personalities including Narendra Shetty (Saudi Arabia), Naveen Bhandari, Ajit Bangera (elected President of Kannada Sangha), Rupesh, Mr. Asif (Vice President of Ali Lal Hospital), and Saeed from Metalco.
The evening was expertly compered by Anand Lobo, who entertained the crowd with his trademark wit and charm, effortlessly switching between five languages.
Kudlotsava 2025 once again proved that the cultural bond among the Tulunadu diaspora remains strong and vibrant, even far from home.