Tulu Jaatre 2025 enthralls over 5,000 attendees in Qatar with grand celebration of Tulunadu culture
Doha: The much-awaited Tulu Jaatre 2025 made a grand return at the Old Ideal Indian School Ground, drawing over 5,000 attendees in a dazzling celebration of Tulunadu’s cultural heritage. Proudly organized by Tulukoota Qatar, an affiliate of the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) under the aegis of the Embassy of India in Qatar, the event blended traditional performances, coastal delicacies, and community festivities in an unforgettable showcase.
The venue, transformed into a festive hub adorned with traditional buntings and the iconic Pili face of Tulunadu, transported the audience to the coastal homeland. Aromas of authentic dishes and the sounds of folk performances filled the air, creating an immersive cultural experience for the diverse crowd, which included not only Tuluvas and Kannadigas but also members of Qatar’s wider expatriate community.
Grand opening ceremony
The evening opened with a grand procession led by Nasik Dhol and Tulunadu Thase under the leadership of Sagar Kotian, accompanied by Tulukoota Qatar President Sandesh Anand and the management committee. Cultural Secretary Divyashree introduced the evening’s host, RJ Anurag Bangera, who narrated the evolution of Tulukoota Qatar and the legacy of Tulu Jaatre since its inception in 2019.
The traditional lighting of the lamp was performed by President Sandesh Anand and dignitaries including social activist Eshwar Malpe, MasterChef India winner Mohamed Ashiq, title sponsor Chidanand Naik, and representatives from various sponsor organizations and apex bodies.
Community participation and cultural display
The traditional game Tarayi Da Katta was opened to the public by Sandesh Anand and Ravi Shetty, invoking nostalgia and engagement. President Anand emphasised the growing footfall beyond caste and religious lines and described Jaatre as a brand of unity, coinciding with Tulukoota Qatar’s 25th year of community service.
Deputy Chief of Mission at the Indian Embassy, Sandeep Kumar, graced the occasion as Chief Guest, alongside presidents and members of apex organizations like ICC, ICBF, and ISC.
President Anand expressed heartfelt gratitude to all supporting associations and sponsors, highlighting the crucial role played by M. Pallonji in the event’s logistics and stage setup. A special mention was given to Ultimate Trading and Contracting for providing electrical support. The Vote of Thanks was delivered by General Secretary Pravina Shetty.
The event saw the felicitation of achievers across multiple fields.
Tulu Jaatre 2025 provided a significant platform to celebrate the achievements and contributions of community members. Tulukoota Qatar recognized its dedicated sports teams—including Volleyball, Cricket, Throwball, Kabaddi, and Badminton—for their consistent efforts and team spirit. The event also saw the presentation of Achievement Awards to children who excelled in academics and sports during the 2023–2024 academic year, acknowledging their hard work and dedication.
A special felicitation was accorded to Mohamed Ashiq, winner of MasterChef India, for bringing laurels to the community and inspiring aspiring chefs with his culinary excellence. The prestigious Tulunada Bolpu Award was conferred on Eshwar Malpe, a noted social activist renowned for saving over 70 lives from drowning and recovering nearly 1,000 bodies, an honor that reflects his extraordinary service and commitment to society.
Community leadership was also duly recognized. Apex Body Presidents and committee members from the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC), Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF), and Indian Sports Centre (ISC) were felicitated for their contributions. Among them, Abdulla Monu, past Vice President of Tulukoota, was honoured for receiving the Dakshina Kannada Rajyotsava Award 2024. Long-serving volunteers Yashpal Suvaran and Sandeep Mallar, along with their families, were also acknowledged for their enduring support and service to Tulukoota Qatar as they prepare to bid farewell to the community.
Over 100 volunteers were honored for their tireless work in making the event a success.
The culinary experience at Tulu Jaatre 2025 was a highlight in itself, with food stalls offering a delectable variety of authentic Tulunadu delicacies. Visitors relished traditional dishes such as Kori Rotti, Mutton Gasi, Neer Dosa, Pelakkayi Gatti, Meen Gasi, Holige, and the ever-popular Gadbad Ice Cream. The aroma of spices and the diversity of flavours brought the essence of coastal Karnataka to life, delighting attendees throughout the evening.
Alongside the feast, a variety of traditional folk games kept the festive spirit alive. Games such as Gargara Mandala, Car Race, and Bottle Gala provided entertainment for attendees of all age groups, while children engaged enthusiastically in fun activities like Ring Toss and Pili Ta Bayi. Among the various food and cultural stalls, the Ammana Tammana stall was recognised for its outstanding presentation and offerings, winning the coveted “Best Stall” award.
The stage performances were a visual and emotional treat, meticulously choreographed and presented by members of Tulukoota Qatar. The evening commenced with a high-energy opening dance choreographed by Raj and Rakshit, setting the tone for an engaging cultural showcase. This was followed by a delightful puppet-themed dance by the children of TKQ, choreographed by Pooja Jiten, capturing the innocence and imagination of childhood through creative storytelling.
A unique rope yoga performance by Ashwini and Niveditha added an element of grace and physical artistry to the evening. One of the most appreciated segments was the Yakshagana performance, directed by Sumanth Shetty. Executed with professional finesse and dramatic depth, the performance transported the audience into the rich world of traditional Tulu theatre, despite the chilly winter winds.
Further enriching the programme were guest performances by various cultural organisations in Qatar. Karnataka Sangha Qatar presented a vibrant cultural segment, while the MKP Mallar Dance Team, Thalim, and Magic Feet Dance Academy added to the evening’s dynamism with their energetic and colourful showcases.
The evening concluded with an exciting raffle draw sponsored by Safari, featuring ten grand prizes including a refrigerator and a television.
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Inappropriate for MLAs seeking free IPL tickets, says D.K. Suresh
Bengaluru: Bengaluru Milk Union Ltd President D.K. Suresh on Monday said it is inappropriate for MLAs to seek free IPL tickets, adding that those interested in watching matches should pay for them personally.
Speaking to reporters near his residence in Sadashivanagar, he said, “IPL is a commercial tournament and does not represent the country. It is not right for public representatives to focus too much on such matters.”
Referring to the recent controversy during the RCB celebrations, he said, “let us find out who benefited the most from the statements made during the incident.” He also pointed out that BJP MLAs had received IPL tickets as well.
Responding to discussions about relocating the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Suresh said the government has already approved the construction of a new stadium at a location he had proposed.
“I had suggested building a stadium in Surya City and submitted a proposal for it. Bengaluru needs four stadiums in four directions to cater to its growing population and encourage youth participation in sports,” he said.
He noted that apart from Kanteerava Stadium, KSCA, and the Football Stadium, there are limited facilities in the city.
“When I was a Lok Sabha member, I had proposed allocating 100 acres in my constituency at Surya City. The land was later earmarked and the plan approved,” he added.
Suresh said he has discussed the project with Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation Chairman Shivalingegowda, and Anekal MLA Shivanna.
“The Cabinet has now approved the project, and a stadium will be developed on around 50–60 acres,” he said.
He further added that he has requested the Deputy Chief Minister to build another stadium at Shivarama Karanth Layout through the BDA, where 40 acres have been allocated. Plans are also being discussed to develop a well-equipped stadium in Bidadi.
Commending state government's recent bilingual policy move, Suresh said forcing children to learn three languages could affect their comprehension.
“It is a good decision to make two languages compulsory. Learning a third language should be left to the choice of students and parents,” he said.
Responding to criticism from BJP leaders, he said their tendency is to oppose every decision of the government.
“To please their central leadership, they take a pro-Hindi stance. Instead, they should advocate for the adoption of Kannada in all states,” he said.
When asked about the earlier three-language policy under Congress, he said, “the situation is different now. Today, the focus should be on quality learning. Kannada should remain the primary language, while students and parents can choose an additional language.”
