Ancient Wooden Idol Recovered from Sea in Mangaluru
A wooden idol believed to be of Mayandal or Siri Daiva was recovered from the sea at Kanwathirtha Beach in Manjeshwara, Kerala, bordering Dakshina Kannada district. The idol was first spotted by Kushalakshi V Kulal, a Tulu author from the area, who found it lying upside down in the sand. Kushalakshi noted that the idol appeared to belong to the Badakayi (North Tulu Nadu), as such wooden idols are uncommon in Tenkai (South). She subsequently informed Nischith G Ramakunja, president of the Tulu Cultural Research Foundation (TCRF), and his team.
Nischith explained that the team decided to retrieve the idol as the foundation plans to establish a museum to preserve and display culturally significant artefacts. According to him, the idol may have originated from a temple and could have been discarded during Jeernodhara (renovation). He highlighted the idol's remarkable craftsmanship and intricate carvings, noting that its hands were broken and face damaged. While some locals speculated that the idol might have been part of a chariot, Nischith pointed to its strong base-like extension, suggesting it was likely installed vertically on the ground in a temple.
Although unable to determine its exact age, Nischith believes the idol is old and may have been immersed in the sea years ago during a renovation. Stressing the need to preserve Tulu heritage, he said that history is often easier to understand through artefacts than through reading alone. TCRF founder Mahi Mulki also emphasized the importance of preserving culturally significant artefacts. He explained that Mayandal idols are mostly installed in Garodis, while Siri idols are placed in Alades (a sacred grove or an ancient traditional place of daiva worship).
The foundation has collected around 50 artefacts, including several decades-old items, as part of its efforts to safeguard Tulu heritage. Mulki stated that the team plans to repaint the idol for preservation, although reconstruction is not possible due to the extent of the damage. He urged the Tulu community to help preserve such artefacts and educate future generations about their cultural heritage.
