Traditional ‘Mullumutte’ celebration lights up Tulu Nadu’s Diwali spirit in Kapu

Kapu: Tulunadu, the land of rich customs, culture, and traditions, once again witnessed its unique Diwali ritual — the age-old Mullumutte celebration — observed with great devotion and enthusiasm across Kapu taluk. This distinctive rural celebration, deeply rooted in Tulu folklore, took place at dawn on Naraka Chaturdashi, the day that marks the triumph of good over evil.

Villages including Koppalangadi, Mallaru, Majuru, Uliyaru, Karandadi, Innanje, Kalyalu, Pangala, Katapadi, Manipur, Padu Belle, and Belapu came alive with the joyous and spiritual fervor of Mullumutte. Among these, the celebrations in Koppalangadi and Innanje stood out for their grandeur and their special connection with the Banta kola performance a vibrant folk ritual symbolizing courage, devotion, and communal harmony.

Banta kola adds grandeur to the ritual:

In the Koppalangadi and Innanje regions, Banta kola is performed as a prelude to the Mullumutte celebration. Artists, donning traditional Banta attire, visit prominent local shrines and offer prayers for the well-being of the village.

They seek divine blessings to drive away evil and ensure prosperity for the community. The ritual, filled with rhythmic drumming, tase beats, and the lively dance of the youth, transforms the early morning hours into a grand spectacle of devotion and joy.

The sight of villagers young and old alike joining the performers with lamps, flowers, and musical instruments reflects the deep sense of unity and cultural pride embedded in Tulu Nadu’s traditions. Beyond its visual appeal, the Banta kola symbolizes the community’s faith in divine protection and its shared commitment to preserving local heritage.

Cultural and symbolic meaning:

The Mullumutte ritual, which historically carried agrarian significance, has evolved into a deeply spiritual practice. Traditionally, it was believed to be performed to ensure the fertility of the land and a good harvest season. Over time, it gained religious importance, coinciding with the Diwali festival — symbolizing the burning away of evil, much like the destruction of the demon Narakasura.

Villagers prepare heaps of thorny bushes the “mullu” which are later set on fire, symbolically burning away misfortune and inviting prosperity into their homes. The crackling flames of the Mullumutte illuminate the dawn sky, marking a visual metaphor for light conquering darkness and righteousness triumphing over negativity.

Leaders and villagers participate with devotion:

The celebration drew active participation from local leaders and residents alike. Former MLA Lalaji R. Mendon, local leader Yogish Shetty Balaji, and hundreds of villagers joined in the rituals, continuing a tradition that binds generations.

Speaking on the occasion, Lalaji Mendon praised the youth for their commitment to preserving the age-old custom. “This ritual reflects the heart of our Tulu culture — faith, unity, and respect for our ancestors. The youth have kept this alive with enthusiasm and discipline. The procession that travels up to Kapu town has become a symbol of our collective cultural spirit,” he said.

Mendon further emphasized that maintaining these folk traditions is essential not only for cultural identity but also for strengthening community ties in a rapidly changing world. His words were met with applause from the crowd, many of whom see the ritual as a bridge connecting the spiritual, cultural, and social fabric of the region.

A living tradition of unity:

The Mullumutte celebration in Kapu is more than just a Diwali ritual — it is a living tradition that reinforces the unity of the Tulu community. The combination of Banta kola, music, fire rituals, and collective participation makes it one of the most colorful and meaningful festivities in coastal Karnataka.

As the early morning flames of Mullumutte burned away the symbolic thorns of evil, the villages of Kapu once again proved that Tulu Nadu’s strength lies in its enduring traditions where faith, festivity, and fraternity go hand in hand.

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