Amid the festive celebrations of Madikeri Dasara, the 13th edition of Makkala Dasara (Children’s Dasara), organised by Rotary Misty Hills, was held with a variety of activities at the Kala Sambhrama stage in Gandhi Maidan, Madikeri.
The enthusiasm and artistic talents displayed by the children attracted public attention. Business was brisk at the children’s market, where young participants took on the roles of sellers and traders.
The stalls set up and operated by children drew considerable attention from visitors.
The market featured a wide variety of leafy vegetables, including spinach, fenugreek leaves, dill, amaranth, greens, drumstick leaves, Malabar spinach, cabbage and betel leaves. The vegetable section offered pumpkins, ash gourds, cucumbers, bottle gourds and other produce. Fruits such as bananas, oranges, pomelos and apples were also on sale.
On another side, stalls selling pani puri, masala puri and various refreshing drinks attracted visitors. The wide selection of snacks and food items proved especially popular.
Children dressed as mythological characters, historical personalities and national leaders captivated the audience.
The pavilion-making competitions, which encouraged creativity, received considerable appreciation. Miniature replicas of Madikeri Dasara tableaux, conveying historical messages, were a special attraction, along with displays depicting mythological themes. Inaugurating the programme, Deputy Commissioner S.J. Somashekar said the children’s market helped youngsters understand business and commercial transactions. He noted that the large number of children participating in the event was particularly encouraging.
He also said the Education Department had organised a youth parliament programme in the district, focusing on five subjects to discuss local issues. He urged students to participate actively and express their views, while calling upon parents to encourage their children’s talents.
Satish Bholar, Governor of Rotary District 3181, inaugurated the children’s market and shop competition. He said Rotary was conducting a nine-day series of special programmes under the concept of “Rotary Navaranga” during the Dasara festival. The activities included food distribution, healthcare services, environmental awareness and honouring senior citizens. He encouraged other organisations to make use of such initiatives.
He appreciated the organisation of the programme with government support, saying it encouraged students and helped develop their business knowledge. He added that such activities could also foster religious sentiment and patriotism among children, and praised Rotary Misty Hills for organising the event.
He observed that festivals, celebrations and traditions acquire true meaning only when they go beyond outward displays and bring about positive changes in people’s attitudes and behaviour. He stressed the importance of treating elders and parents with respect.
Rotary Misty Hills President P.R. Rajesh said Makkala Dasara provided an excellent platform for children to showcase their talents and pursue their aspirations. He emphasised the importance of encouraging children to participate in competitions.
Rotary Assistant Governor for Zone 6 H.S. Vasanth Kumar and Zone Sergeant-at-Arms Madhusudan were present. Makkala Dasara coordinator Anil H.T. welcomed the gathering and compered the programme. Rotary Misty Hills Secretary Dr. G.D. Chetan proposed the vote of thanks.
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