On 8th November 2025, the Manipal Institute of Communication (MIC) celebrated Karunadu Nudisiri in honour of Karnataka Rajyotsava, which is observed annually on 1st November across the state. The event began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and floral tribute by Dr. Shubha HS, Director of MIC, the faculty coordinators of the cultural committee, Dr. Manikandan C, and Ms. Kavita Nagasampige, and the student representatives, Tarunn Prakash & Devendra Shenoy. It was accompanied by the rendition of Naada Geethe, the state anthem.

Emcees Sanjana Esturi and Vishal G warmly welcomed the audience, after which the Director addressed the gathering, reflecting on the cultural richness of Karnataka and the significance of preserving its language and traditions.

The International exchange students of MIC presented a graceful Bharatanatyam performance under the guidance of Adithi Mehendale. The staff and faculty of MIC also came together for a musical presentation. The non-teaching staff were felicitated with gifts in appreciation of their contributions. The institute’s music club, UNPLGD, further enlivened the atmosphere with a vibrant performance.

To mark the occasion, several competitions were organised, including Cooking Without Fire, the Rajakumara and Rajakumari pageant, and the traditional game of Lagori. Tejaswi S.J. Rao and Sai Niranjan were crowned Rajakumaras, while Ankitha R was crowned Rajakumari. The Cooking Without Fire competition was won by Senora Dsouza, Chris Joy Kachhap, and Aryan Dinesh Shriyan, with Rekan Kumar and Prasanna Kumar M emerging as runners-up. The first years of B.Sc. Animation team emerged as the champions of the Lagori tournament.

-          Mahalakshmi Gururaj

-          Photo credits: Deepthi K Bhat