Duff show dropped after protests by Hindu groups in Sullia

Mangaluru: A cultural programme planned in front of the Chennakeshava Temple in Sullia taluk has triggered a major controversy, leading to strong objections from Hindu organisations and eventually forcing organisers to withdraw the proposed duff performance.

The KVGP Sullia Habba Samaja Samiti had scheduled the KVGP Sullia Habba–2025 on December 25 and 26 in front of the Chennakeshava Temple. As part of the event, the Karnataka Beary Sahitya Academy, Mangaluru, was preparing to present a duff performance—an art form traditionally associated with the Beary Muslim community.

However, the announcement immediately drew sharp resistance from VHP, Bajrang Dal and several other Hindu groups. They opposed conducting a non-Hindu cultural performance in front of what they described as a “sacred religious centre” for Hindus.

Tensions escalated after some groups warned that if the duff performance was held in front of the temple, they would respond by organising a Hanuman Chalisa recital in front of a mosque. Facing mounting pressure, the organisers have now officially withdrawn the duff performance from the cultural lineup.

Speaking to media, VHP Sullia Prakhanda general secretary Naveen Elimale said the Chennakeshava Temple is an important spiritual hub for the Hindu community, and allowing a performance by “persons of another faith” would hurt religious sentiments. “VHP, Bajrang Dal and all Hindu organisations had expressed objections.

Following this, we submitted representations to the Sullia tahsildar, the temple management committee and the Sullia police station,” he said. Elimale further confirmed that they had now received information that the duff performance had been cancelled by the organisers.

Also Read: BJP intensifies attack, demands full probe into Dharmasthala “conspiracy”by Urban naxals