The Manjunatha Temple in Kadri resembled Mathura on the occasion of Janmashtami. Over 1,000 children gathered all dressed up as little Krishnas. The event was Sri Krishna Vesha Spardhe, a national-level children's festival organised by Kalkura Pratishtana. Innovative costumes and distinct attitude of the children created the festive mood which also represented the rich culture.
Smooth transitions
Sujatha, the mother of four-year-old Sanjana, says that it has been an exciting experience for her to get her daughter dressed as Krishna for the past three years. “She has now moved on from playing Kanda Krishna to Bala Krishna. The excitement is infectious. Sanjana is fussy about her costume and the way she needs to portray the role. “I readily agree to get on to the stage only when I am provided an ice cream instead of butter,” says Sanjana.
The category introduced this year was Devaki Krishna, wherein the mother of a child participating as Krishna donned the role of Devaki. Another inclusion this year was Yashoda Krishna who depicted a mother's love for her child. Geetha Krishna, Radha Krishna and Yaksha Krishna for students up to Std VII were among the other categories.
Various categories
The other unique competitions were Shankhanada that was open to students up to Std VII and Sri Krishna quiz competition for students up to Std VII, where the students stumped the audience with their quick wit and knowledge on mythological stories. Guru Dakshina, a Yakshagana episode by Bala Yaksha Koota was the show-stealer.
