Page 235 - Quest-2025

From the vibrant festivals to the delicious food like Thus, while Dussehra marks Rama’s triumph in the
kori roti, the effulgence and archaic nature of our Ramayana for some, for others, it commemorates
Yakshagana performances, Karnataka’s culture Durga’s victory over Mahishasura — both stories
feels like home to me. It feels like I belong, which I celebrating courage, righteousness, and divine
fortunately do. strength.
Why I love my state- culture, festivals etc. What makes Karnataka truly special to me is the
One of the things that captivates me the most balance it holds — the fast-paced cities full of
about Karnataka is its temples. These aren’t just modern ideas and opportunities, and the quiet
places of worship; they are works of art. With their villages that preserve traditions, values, and
bewitching and meticulous stone carvings, they tell simplicity. It’s a blend of past and present, of
ancient stories of valor, love, and sometimes, Z technology and tradition, of simplicity and
defeat. Every sculpture and figure has a purpose, a modernity, and it’s this duality that I find so
history, a tale to tell. The atmosphere in these beautiful.
temples is unlike anything else — the ringing of In conclusion, I love Karnataka not just because it’s
bells, and rhythmic chants during poojas provide where I’m from, but because it is a state that offers
soothing vibrations that fill the air, making it a so much to love — its history, its festivals, its
spiritual experience that feels almost unreal. spirituality, its beaches, its food, and most of all, its
Equally breathtaking is Karnataka’s coastline, heart.Karnataka’s culture is something I will
especially in towns like Mangalore. The beaches always carry with pride, no matter where I go.
are stunning, with golden sands and a shimmering
ocean that seems endless. What I love most is how
full of life these shores are — with camel rides, --Mugdha Bhandary 10
horse rides, beach buggies and seaside restaurants,
showcasing the exploration of their true potential.
Of course, there’s the food — coastal Karnataka has
some of the best cuisine you’ll ever taste. Dishes
like kori roti and spicy seafood are bursting with WHY I LOVE MY STATE,KERALA
flavor and feel like comfort on a plate, like a rich,
warm scent taking you back home. Kerala, often called “God’s Own Country,” holds a
Dussehra is a vibrant celebration of the eternal special place in my heart. Nestled along the
truth: that good always triumphs over evil. The southwestern coast of India, this beautiful state is
ten-day festival begins with Navratri, a period of not just my homeland—it is a vibrant tapestry of
nine nights dedicated to worshipping the divine nature, tradition, and cultural richness that I am
feminine in her many powerful forms, and deeply proud of. From its serene backwaters and
concludes on the tenth day with Dussehra, lush green landscapes to its rich history and
marking Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana. The colourful festivals, Kerala’s charm is truly
word Dussehra is derived from the Sanskrit words unmatched.
dasha (ten) and hara (defeat), symbolizing the One of the primary reasons I love Kerala is its
defeat of the ten-headed demon king. unique and diverse culture. Despite being one of
Celebrated on the tenth day of the Hindu month of the smaller states in India, Kerala is home to
Ashvina (September–October), Dussehra coincides people of different religions, languages, and
with the full moon, also known as Shukla Paksha, communities who live together in harmony. The
or the “bright fortnight.” It is the culmination of spirit of unity in diversity is very much alive here.
both Navratri and Durga Puja, two deeply spiritual The Malayalam language, traditional attire like the
festivals honoring Goddess Durga, one of the most mundu and settu saree, and classical art forms like
powerful and revered deities in Hinduism. During Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Theyyam reflect the
Navratri, her nine avatars, known as Navadurga, deep cultural roots of the state.
are worshipped — each day bringing a new colour Festivals in Kerala are celebrated with immense
to wear, a new form of the goddess to revere, and a joy and devotion. Onam, the harvest festival, is my
new trait to reflect upon. personal favorite. It brings people of all
In Durga Puja, the goddess is celebrated in her communities together in a celebration that
fierce, demon-slaying form, Mahishasuramardini, includes traditional flower decorations
who defeated the powerful demon Mahishasura. (pookalam), elaborate feasts (onasadya), boat
races, and folk dances.

Page 234