In a special treat for wildlife enthusiasts, the Pilikula Biological Park in Mangaluru is set to present its two newest feline stars to the public for the very first time. This exciting debut coincides with the district administration's grand plans for the upcoming Karavali Utsava, marking a year since the cubs' birth.
A Grand Festival Debut for the Tiger Cubs
The park's tigress, Rani, gave birth to the cubs—one male and one female—on December 20 last year. For the past twelve months, the cubs have remained under the vigilant care of their mother and the constant observation of the park's veterinary team and staff. Now, as part of the collaborative festivities for the Karavali Utsava, the Pilikula Development Authority has decided to introduce them to visitors.
Dr. Arun Kumar Shetty, the in-charge commissioner of the authority, announced that the cubs will be brought to the tiger enclosure where the public can view them. The cubs are yet to be named, and the park is actively seeking donors to adopt them. "We are expecting donors to adopt the cubs during the festival. Those interested may even celebrate a naming ceremony at the park," Dr. Shetty stated.
Karavali Utsava: A Line-Up of Cultural and Educational Events
Deputy Commissioner Darshan H.V. outlined an extensive schedule of events for the Karavali Utsava at Pilikula Nisargadhama, starting from December 20. The festival promises a vibrant mix of rural and urban culture, science, and nature awareness.
A highlight will be the Pilikula Parba at the Urban Haath and Rural Haath, organized in association with the Raitha Kudla Prathishtana from December 24 to 28. Concurrently, the Gandhi Shilpa Bazaar, an exhibition of handicrafts by artisans from across India, will be held from December 24 to 30 in collaboration with the Kumbarara Gudi Kaigarika Sahakara Sangha from Puttur.
The festival also includes several engaging activities designed for families and nature lovers:
- A treasure hunt to identify animals on December 25.
- A guided birding trip to learn about avian species on December 27.
- An informative snake awareness programme on December 28 detailing venomous and non-venomous species.
Science, Astronomy, and Cultural Performances
Adding to the diverse offerings, a series of science and cultural events have been planned for the latter part of the festival. Attendees can look forward to a fun science show on December 29, a science quiz on December 30, and a water rocket demonstration on January 1.
The new year will be welcomed with a drone show on January 2 and an astronomy live show on December 31. Culture will take center stage with a Yakshagana bombeyata performance by the Sri Gopalakrishna Yakshagana Bombeyata Sangha from Kasaragod on December 28. Furthermore, an exhibition of various saplings will be on display from December 20 to January 4.
The integration of the tiger cubs' debut with the wide array of festival activities underscores Pilikula's role as a hub for conservation, education, and cultural celebration in the Dakshina Kannada region.
