India Paddle Festival 2025 Kicks Off at Sasihitlu Beach, Showcasing Coastal Tourism Potential

Mangaluru’s Sasihitlu Beach came alive on Friday with the launch of the second edition of the India Paddle Festival, an international Stand-Up Paddling (SUP) event that will run for three days. Inaugurating the festival, MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta highlighted the immense potential of the Dakshina Kannada region as a premier tourist destination. Organised by the Surfing Swami Foundation and Mantra Surf Club in collaboration with WrkWrk, and backed by the Department of Tourism, the festival features high-energy SUP competitions alongside cultural festivities. Capt. Chowta emphasized the need for local organisations and institutions to collaborate in order to boost tourism and the region’s growing sporting culture.

The opening day set an electrifying tone with a workshop led by elite professionals from the APP World Tour, aimed at refining the skills of Indian athletes. The event drew renowned international paddlers, including Daniel Hasulyo, Christian Andersen, Sekar Patchai, and Manikandan, who participated in an exhibition race alongside young local talents. Spectators were treated to an impressive showcase of skill and endurance, further cementing Sasihitlu’s reputation as a prime destination for water sports. The festivities concluded on a high note with a lively performance by Alva Kuuto, a popular Tulu folk band, adding a cultural charm to the coastal sporting spectacle.