Tracing a Century of Coastal Cricket: Book and Photo Exhibition Launched in Udupi

Tracing a Century of Coastal Cricket: Book and Photo Exhibition Launched in Udupi

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, December 13, 2025: The book ‘Red Cherries on the Canara Coast: The Story of Cricket in Mangaluru and Udupi’ was launched along with a photographic exhibition at Gallery Dristi, Udupi, on Saturday, December 13, 2025, marking the arrival of the acclaimed project in the district after its successful Mangaluru edition. The programme was organised by Art Kanara Trust, Mangaluru, in association with the Artists’ Forum, Udupi.

The book was formally released in the presence of Dr. Krishna Prasad, President of the Udupi District Cricket Association; former umpire Kasturi Balakrishna Pai; the book’s author Jayanth Kodkani; Subhas Chandra Basu, Convener of the INTACH Mangaluru Chapter; senior artist and Artists’ Forum President Ramesh Rao; and Y.S. Rao.

In his introductory address, Subhas Chandra Basu spoke on the genesis of the project, recalling how informal discussions with veteran cricketer and umpire Kasturi Balakrishna Pai in 2022 led first to an exhibition and eventually to the idea of documenting the region’s cricketing history in book form.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Krishna Prasad highlighted the need for a modern cricket stadium in Udupi capable of hosting major matches, including IPL fixtures. Given the long and vibrant cricketing tradition of the coastal belt, he said such a facility would inspire young talent and provide a platform for competitive leagues. Supporting this view, Kasturi Balakrishna Pai shared anecdotes from the region’s cricketing past, underscoring the depth of local engagement with the sport.

Ramesh Rao fondly recalled his childhood memories of cricket in Udupi, sharing personal stories that resonated with the audience. Author Jayanth Kodkani reflected on the importance of history in shaping collective identity. “It is important for people to cultivate a sense of their shared past. These are the traces of the sport that I have attempted to follow,” he said.

Kodkani noted that while Udupi is widely known for its spirituality, cuisine and jasmine fragrance, its deep-rooted cricketing culture remains lesser known. “Cricket is everywhere along the coast — in schoolyards, open fields, beaches and narrow streets. The game here has a history of more than a hundred years,” he said, citing a rare Basel Mission photograph from 1898 depicting boys playing cricket in Udupi, included in the book. He also recalled Udupi hosting its biggest cricketing event 47 years ago — a Ranji Trophy match between Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh at the MGMC ground, which concluded in just two days with Karnataka winning by eight wickets.

Sharvani Bhat initiated the programme with an introduction of the dignitaries, while H.K. Ramachandra, member of the Artists’ Forum, welcomed the gathering. With the book launch, the three-day photographic exhibition documenting over a century of cricket along the Canara coast was formally declared open. The exhibition, featuring rare photographs, archival material and memorabilia, will remain open to the public till Monday, December 15, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Gallery Dristi, Vidyaranya Marg, Udupi.