Kudlada Pili Parba returns for its fifth season in 2026, celebrating Tulunadu’s traditional folk art form—Hulivesha (also known in Tulu as Pili Nalike or Tiger Dance). Organised by Kudla Samskruthika Prathisthana, the competition is scheduled for Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Kendra Maidana in the heart of Mangaluru, starting from 10:00 AM.
The event is held under the guidance of former Dakshina Kannada Member of Parliament Sri Nalin Kumar Kateel and under the leadership of Mangaluru City South MLA Sri D. Vedavyas Kamath. Kudlada Pili Parba serves as a major platform to preserve, promote, and present the age-old tradition of Hulivesha, which is deeply rooted in the Navaratri cultural celebrations of coastal Karnataka.
During the event, participating Hulivesha troupes perform synchronized dance steps to the characteristic rhythm of the tasase drums. Dancers wearing body paint and painted tiger masks perform high-energy acrobatics, traditional dance moves, and cultural displays before a panel of judges and thousands of spectators.
Kudlada Pili Parba Season 5 highlights the artistic talent, discipline, and heritage of local performers in Mangaluru and surrounding regions of Tulunadu.
Event Highlights
- Season 5 of Kudlada Pili Parba Hulivesha competition.
- Performances by traditional Hulivesha (Pili Nalike) troupes of Tulunadu.
- Scheduled for Sunday, October 18, 2026, starting at 10:00 AM.
- Hosted at Kendra Maidana in central Mangaluru.
- Organized by Kudla Samskruthika Prathisthana.
- Spearheaded by Sri Nalin Kumar Kateel (Former MP) and Sri D. Vedavyas Kamath (MLA).
Why Attend?
Kudlada Pili Parba is one of the grandest public folk cultural gatherings in Mangaluru during the festival season. It offers residents, cultural enthusiasts, photographers, and visitors an authentic experience of Tulunadu's famous Hulivesha (tiger dance) tradition, featuring live drum beats, traditional body art, acrobatic skills, and competitive group performances.
Who Can Attend?
The event is open to the general public, cultural enthusiasts, families, tourists, and residents of Mangaluru and coastal Karnataka. Specific entry restrictions or reserved seating guidelines have not been specified on the official announcement.
