The City of Mangalore
by Vikas Kamat
First Online: May 01, 2005
Page Last Updated: August 20, 2024
Mangalore (a.k.a. Mangalooru and Kodiyal) is a vibrant city on the west coast of Karnataka state, most famous for its diverse population and delicacies. It is also home to a number of very old temples and serves as the trading/finance capital for the nearby areas.
Named after Goddess Mangaladevi, Mangalore was the a capital of Dakshina Kannada district till it was broken into two separate counties in 1997. It is one of the very few cities of India that is accessible by air, by train (Konkan Railway), and by sea. Most residents of Mangalore speak at least three languages (Kannada, Konkani, and Tulu) and the local life reflects this inherent diversity.
Here's a series of pictures about life and culture of Mangalore.
kamat.com/Kamat's Potpourri
Ciry Hall Complex, Mangalore
When in Mangalore, try the delicious Konkani vegetarian food as well seafood which is spicy and fresh. Gudbud is a type of ice cream very popular with locals.
Temples of Mangalore
kamat.com/Kamat's Potpourri
Temple of Kudroli ,Mangalore
Devotees flock the temple of Goddess Mangaladevi for blessings in their marriage and marriage prospects. A special offering (sign shown below) made to the deity is believed to result in rapid matchmaking.
Vikas Kamat/Kamat's Potpourri
Signboard Advertising "Marriage Prayer Offering"
Old Houses of Mangalore
kamat.com/Kamat's Potpourri
An Old Fashioned Home of Mangalore
kamat.com/Kamat's Potpourri
Mangalore Tiled House, Mangalore
Ghost and Spirit Worship
Ghost worship (Bhootapuja) is very prevalent in Mangalore and nearby areas. Several temples are dedicated to the spirits which are feared and sacrifices are offered. A dance form known as Pretanritya is also practiced in honor of the spirits.
K.L. Kamat/Kamat's Potpourri
Ghost Dance
The "Preta-Nritya" is a popular form of dance performed to please spirits in South Kanara
K.L. Kamat/Kamat's Potpourri
Preta Nritya -- Ghost dance of South Kanara
See Also:
- Karavali Photo Album
- Town of Udupi -- Photo album of the elephants, temples, arts, and people of the town of Udupi in Karnataka
