by Vikas Kamat
First Online: May 01,2005
Page Last Updated: September 07,2008

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