Mangalore : The 2-day festival of the 9th Abbakka Utsav was held at Uchila Bovi School ground in Sankolige in Someshwar on Feb 11, Saturday.

Mangalore MLA U. T. Khader flagged off colorful procession from Kotekar to the school grounds, led by a woman on horseback. The procession comprised illustrations of folk art such as Yakshagana Gombe, Keelu Kudure, Gombe Balaga, Navilu Nritya, Daapu, and others

Speaking on the occasion, Energy Minister Shobha Karandlaje said that all elected representatives need to work to preserve the country’s culture and independence.

She urged the new generation to gain the inspiration from Rani Abbakka. This festival must not be limited to Ullal but the state government must be extended to different parts of the state

She also said that the festival has received financial support from the state government, which released Rs. 25 lakh for the 9th edition.

MLA U. T. Khader said that Abbakka Utsav can be used as a platform to spread the message of communal harmony and strengthen the relation with each other.

MLC Ganesh Karnik, Harikrishna Punaroor, and many others were also present.