Polali Chendu Utsava: Devotion, tradition and festive fun come alive at Polali Temple

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Apr 9, 2026: The annual festival at the famous Polali Rajarajeshwari Temple in Dakshina Kannada is in full swing, attracting devotees from across the region. The highlight of the month-long festivities is the Polali Chendu Utsava, a five-day ball game that combines devotion and tradition.

During the Chendu Utsava, devotees play a game resembling traditional kickball on the temple grounds using a rubber ball. The ritual is rooted in legend, which recounts the goddess defeating the demons Chanda and Munda and playing with their heads—a scene also depicted in Shri Devi Mahatme Yakshagana performances.

The festival continues to preserve this centuries-old tradition. The Chendu Utsava, held during the last five days of the month-long fair, is especially popular in the coastal region, where it is locally known as the Pulralda Chendu.

The ball, made of leather, is crafted by the Kabler family in Mijar. Responsibility for delivering the ball to the participating families, particularly the Miller family from Kadapu Kariya, rests with the Kablers. The scheduling and organization of the Polali fair involve active participation from the Puttege area of Moodbidri.

For the past 16 years, devotees have carefully prepared the Chendu under the guidance of skilled craftsman Padmanabha, who has been contributing to the festival for 27 years. On Monday morning, the ball was blessed at the Mahammayi deity’s shrine in Padmanabha’s home before being handed over to the Kadapukari family, representing the Polali temple.

The Chendu Utsava, which began on April 6, will continue for five days and conclude on April 10. The grand Rathotsava on April 11 will mark the conclusion of the Polali Rajarajeshwari Temple festival.