Dasara Throwback: A tableau designed by Vikky Kulal for an earlier Mangaluru Dasara procession
Barke Friends, which has been part of the procession for 34 years, is preparing three tableaux featuring Pili, a Kerala-inspired presentation and Sharada.
General secretary Charan said preparations are under way to make the performance more prominent this year. Team member Karthik said the group develops new concepts every year, with expectations growing in step with the scale of the Mangaluru Dasara celebrations. Kalicharan, now in its 42nd year, will also field three tableaux, featuring Pili, a Kerala setting, and a Nashik band, team president Vijayendra Salian said. Artist and writer Santosh Pucher said tableaux are evolving with better materials and techniques, sound effects and more dynamic storytelling, even as traditional themes remain dominant.
Manjalbail, one of the oldest participants in the Kudroli procession, will stick to a familiar favourite, the pili (tiger) dance. Vikky Kulal, also preparing a tableau for Biruver Kudla, is combining tribal themes and pillar-like statues with elements inspired by the film ‘Tiger Safari’. LED effects will be used to strengthen the visual presentation. Mythological narratives and deity-centred displays remain popular, often combined with dance, music and audiovisual effects. Some teams are also developing concepts aimed at younger audiences, while Kerala-inspired themes and Chenda performances add variety to the procession.
Secretary Shravan said members collectively discuss and develop their displays. “While everybody gets to enjoy the festival, we artists are busy making these works of art,” said Acharya, an art director in Tulu movies who has designed displays for Biruver Kudla, Kudla Brothers, Young Tulver and Shiva Friends. Vijaya Games Team, Bolar, a participant in the Mangaladevi Temple procession, is keeping its latest concept under wraps. Its previous tableaux have included Andhakasuravadhe and Sri Kailasa.