MLA Vedavyas Kamath Urges CM to Allocate ₹5 Crore for Mangaluru Dasara in State Budget

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Mangaluru : City South MLA D. Vedavyas Kamath met with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to submit a formal request for the allocation of ₹5 crore in the upcoming 2026-27 state budget for the celebrated Mangaluru Dasara. Highlighting the cultural significance of the festival, Kamath emphasized that Mangaluru Dasara stands as a symbol of pride for Dakshina Kannada, attracting lakhs of devotees from across the country and abroad every year. He noted that after Mysuru, Mangaluru Dasara is the largest gathering in the state during the Navaratri season, with the city’s prominent temples witnessing a massive influx of pilgrims.

The MLA pointed out that a dedicated grant of ₹5 crore from the state government would allow the festival to be organized with even greater grandeur, further boosting local tourism and the festive spirit of the region. During his meeting with the Chief Minister, Kamath urged the government to prioritize this request, stating that financial support from the state is essential to match the growing scale of the celebrations. He stressed that such an initiative would significantly enhance the religious and cultural vibrancy of the coastal city during the ten-day festivities.

Recalling previous initiatives, the MLA mentioned that during the BJP administration in the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC), a landmark decision was made to provide official street lighting for the entire city during Dasara. This project covered major routes connecting temples like Kudroli Gokarnanatheshwara, Mangaladevi, Urwa Marigudi, Car Street, and Dongerkery. This move, supported by the then Mayor and council members, successfully relieved various temple committees of the immense financial burden of lighting costs, which previously ranged between ₹50 to ₹60 lakhs annually. By securing state funding now, Kamath aims to further institutionalize and elevate the “Marnemi” celebrations to a global standard.