Young tigers Of Kudla mesmerise Sanjay Dutt

Mangaluru: "Pachas tola, pachas tola, kitna? Pachas tola," remarked Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt, who was mesmerised by the extraordinary talent of young Pili Vesha artistes of Mangaluru. The renowned actor graced the ‘Oodu Pooje' ceremony with his presence, adding a touch of glamour to Pili Vesha, a cultural extravaganza unique to Tulunadu. The ceremony was conducted as part of the 10th Sharada Huli tiger dance, an event organised by Friends Ballalbagh-Biruver Kudla, at Ballalbagh on Saturday.
The actor's participation in the traditional ritual brought a special shine to the already vibrant celebration, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. The Oodu Pooje ceremony, an integral part of the tiger dance, gained extra significance with the presence of the Bollywood star. Sanjay Dutt was warmly welcomed by Uday Poojary, the founder of Biruver Kudla. The actor participated in the traditional prayer offered to the deities.
He watched young Pili Vesha artistes performing without costumes and paint on the body as part of the Oodu Pooje. Children mesmerised Sanju Baba and the audience with their extraordinary talent in Pili Vesha acrobatics. Those artistes will be performing with costumes and painting on their body during the Mangaluru Dasara procession on Sunday.
"I thank everyone gathered here, especially Uday Poojary, the biggest tiger. I am happy that I could watch tigers of all sizes dancing on the floor. I was stunned to see children performing somersaults. I love you all," Dutt said. A Pili Vesha headgear was gifted to Dutt as a memento by the organisers.
Biruver Kudla honoured achievers from various fields, including Padma Shri awardee Harekala Hajabba, during the programme. Earlier, Dutt visited Kateel Sri Durgaparameshwari Temple and offered prayers. The temple priests and managing committee members honoured the actor on the occasion.