Mangalore festivals form an indelible part of the society of Mangalore that are celebrated by the people with extreme enthusiasm. The festivals of Mangalore provide a deep insight into the socio-cultural pattern of Mangalore.
Some of the festivals at Mangalore that deserve special mention in this context are:
- Aati festival – Aati festival is one of the major festivals in Mangalore. The Aati festival is celebrated with immense enthusiasm throughout the length and breadth of Mangalore. Moreover, during this festival in Mangalore, the people of Mangalore perform the Aatikalanja, which is a form of a ritualistic folk dance in Mangalore. Kalanja is minor spirit that is supposed to be the protector of village. It is believed that Kalanja protects the people of Mangalore from July and August. The Aati festival of Mangalore is celebrated by the Nalke community. The festivities begin from July 17 and lasts till August 15.