Mangaluru: After drawing national attention with its Ramotsava dance production in Bengaluru, Moodbidri Bunts Sangha has once again made its mark—this time with ‘Tallana’, a hard-hitting social drama that clinched top honours at a national-level cultural competition near Mangaluru.

The performance earned widespread praise for its strong social message, underlining that awareness—not violence—is the most effective antidote to social evils. The recognition came as part of the National Bunts Sangha Cultural Competition, organised near Bajpe on the outskirts of the city as part of year-end celebrations welcoming 2026.

A powerful message through art

Nine cultural troupes from across the country participated in the competition, showcasing diverse themes and artistic styles. Among them, Moodbidri Bunts Sangha stood out for the depth and relevance of its presentation, which tackled contemporary social challenges confronting India.

Through Tallana, the artists highlighted issues such as neglect of elderly parents, erosion of family values, caste and communal tensions, violence against women, drug abuse and corruption. The production raised uncomfortable but necessary questions—are social evils born of mental imbalance, or of cruelty and indifference?

The segment depicting the rise of old-age homes despite traditional reverence for parents drew particular attention, as did the portrayal of crimes against women juxtaposed against the belief that “where women are worshipped, gods reside.”

‘Tallana’: a mirror to society

Choreographers Anish Poojary and Smithesh Barya shaped the narrative into a visually compelling dance-drama that urged audiences to introspect. The performance suggested that while medical science may treat mental illness, society must find moral and collective solutions to the evils it creates.

The troupe trained nearly 65 performers over a month to bring the production together. “It was their dedication, discipline and belief in the message that made this possible,” said the choreographers. The lyrics were also penned by Smithesh Barya.

Awards and recognition

At Paltated Bantere Parba 2025, Moodbidri Bunts Sangha won first prize, along with a trophy and a cash award of ₹1 lakh.
Karkala Bunts Sangha secured second place, followed by Bantwal and Ullal Bunts Sanghas.

Moodbidri Bunts Sangha also won the award for Best Social Message. Rajeshwari Shetty of Surathkal Bunts Sangha was named Best Presenter, Bantwal Bunts Sangha won Best Group Dance, and Mumbai’s Thane Bunts Sangha received the Best Disciplined Team award.

Inspiration behind the success

Dr.Mohan-Alva

Cultural patron Vivek Alva was cited as a key inspiration behind the troupe’s success. Dr Mohan Alva, long associated with supporting cultural initiatives in Moodbidri, also played a mentoring role.

“This victory belongs to every artist who believed in using art to awaken society,” said Shobha Hegde and Amrita Hegde, office-bearers of Moodbidri Bunts Sangha. “This recognition will remain a milestone in our cultural journey.”