Illuminating Traditions: Mangaluru Gears Up for Grand Deepavali Goodudeepa Extravaganza

Mangaluru, get ready to illuminate the skies with creativity and tradition! As the festive spirit of Deepavali draws near, MLC Manjunath Bhandary is all set to host the much-anticipated 12th annual Goodudeepa competitions on October 20. This vibrant event, a cherished tradition in the coastal city, promises a dazzling display of artistic sky lanterns, bringing together families and enthusiasts at the picturesque Sri Jaganmohan Palace premises.

The Deepavali Goodudeepa competition is more than just a contest; it's a heartfelt endeavor to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage associated with the festival of lights.

Goodudeepas, or sky lanterns, are an integral part of Deepavali celebrations, symbolizing hope, light, and the triumph of good over evil. This initiative by MLC Manjunath Bhandary aims to encourage both young and old to delve into the intricate art of lantern making, fostering a sense of community and creative expression.

Participants are invited to showcase their craftsmanship across three exciting categories, ensuring there’s a space for every kind of creative vision.

The ‘Traditional’ category celebrates the classic charm of Goodudeepas, mandating the use of eco-friendly and natural materials such as bamboo, paper, and cloth, echoing the timeless designs of yesteryears. For those who love to push boundaries, the ‘Modern’ category encourages contemporary designs and innovative material use, allowing for a fusion of tradition and modernity.

And for the truly ambitious, the ‘Mega’ category challenges participants to construct grand, elaborate Goodudeepas that are sure to captivate and inspire awe.

The stakes are high, with attractive cash prizes awaiting the most brilliant creations. In each category, the first-place winner will receive a handsome Rs 5,000, followed by Rs 3,000 for second place, and Rs 2,000 for third place.

Additionally, two consolation prizes of Rs 1,000 will be awarded in each category, ensuring that exceptional effort and creativity do not go unnoticed. The organizers have made it incredibly easy to participate, with no entry fee required, making this a truly inclusive community event. All participating Goodudeepas must be brought to the venue by 5:30 PM on October 20, ready to dazzle the judges and the public.

This annual event has become a cornerstone of Mangaluru's Deepavali festivities, drawing enthusiastic crowds and talented artisans year after year.

It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to engage in a meaningful cultural activity, for artists to display their talents, and for the entire community to come together and celebrate the spirit of Deepavali in a truly illuminating way. Don't miss this chance to be part of a radiant tradition that brightens both the sky and our hearts.