SOHAR, OMAN: OKKOOTA 2026, the grand get-together organized by Nama Tuluver Sohar, brought Tuluvas and their families together for an evening of cultural celebration, entertainment and community bonding.
The event celebrated the rich heritage and traditions of Tulunadu while strengthening friendships among the Tulu community in Oman. Highlights included a traditional inauguration ceremony, the felicitation of renowned solo rider Mr. Sharath Shiri, and exciting games and activities for children and adults.
A Warm Welcome and Traditional Inauguration
The program began with a warm welcome by Mamatha P. Shetty, one of the founding members of Nama Tuluver Sohar.
Vasanth Bangera recited a traditional Ganapathi Shloka, seeking Lord Ganesha’s blessings for the successful commencement of the event.
The organization’s founding members were then invited onto the stage. They included President Jagath Raj Pal, Vice President Sundar S. Poojary, Prakash Shetty, Vasanth Bangera, Vijay Shetty, Naveen Oswald D’Souza, Anil Vijay Kumar D’Souza, Harish K. Shetty, Bhavya Harish Shetty, Suraj Shetty, Sagar Kumar and Wilson Mark D’Souza. Special guest Mr. Sharath Shiri, widely known as the Mangalore Solo Rider, was also present.
The event was formally inaugurated with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony. Senior members of the Tulunadu community, Nalini Surendra Poojary, Sashi Sundar Poojary, Prema Shetty and Celine D’Souza, joined Mr. Sharath Shiri in lighting the ceremonial lamp. The ceremony symbolized unity, prosperity, tradition and togetherness.
Addressing the gathering, President Jagath Raj Pal welcomed the attendees and shared the objectives and future plans of Nama Tuluver Sohar. He highlighted the organization’s commitment to bringing Tuluvas closer together and thanked its members for their continued support and contributions.
Sharath Shiri Honoured as “The Tulunadu Solo Rider”
One of the major highlights of OKKOOTA 2026 was the felicitation of Mr. Sharath Shiri in recognition of his remarkable solo riding journey and passion for exploration.
In appreciation of his achievements, he was honoured with the distinguished title “The Tulunadu Solo Rider.” The recognition celebrated his adventurous spirit and his journey across countries, connecting people, cultures and communities.
The felicitation was conducted by Mr. Madhusuddan Shetty of STS Sohar, Mr. Ashwin Gatti of Sohar Steel, Mr. Anil Mani of Contract Resources, and members of Nama Tuluver Sohar.
OKKOOTA 2026 Games and Entertainment
The celebrations continued with a lively program of games and activities for children, adults and couples. The competitions brought plenty of laughter, excitement and friendly rivalry, making the evening enjoyable for the entire family.
Chocolate Collection Game for Children Under Four
The children’s games began with a Chocolate Collection Game for children below four years of age. Aathvi K. Shetty secured first place in this category.
Chocolate Collection Game for Children Aged 4–7
Children in the 4–7 age group also participated enthusiastically in the Chocolate Collection Game. Cianna Leora Misquith won first place, while Arhaan Hasan secured second place.
Gents’ Sticky Note Challenge
The Gents’ Sticky Note Challenge was one of the most entertaining highlights of the evening. Participants had to remove sticky notes attached to their shirts without using their hands, creating hilarious moments and drawing cheers and laughter from the audience.
Naveen V. Poojary secured first place, while Stanny D’Souza won second place.
Paper Cup Balancing Challenge for Boys Above Seven
The boys’ category for children above seven years featured an exciting Paper Cup Balancing Challenge. Participants had to balance paper cups on their elbows, testing their concentration, patience and coordination.
Rishik R. Anchan emerged as the winner of the challenge.
Cup Balancing Game for Girls
The girls enthusiastically participated in their own Cup Balancing Game, demonstrating concentration and balancing skills.
Thashvi A. Gatti secured first place in the category.
Couples’ Game: “Prick the Stick”
Adding a playful touch to the celebrations, the couples’ game titled “Prick the Stick” attracted seven participating couples. The competition brought laughter, excitement and plenty of cheerful moments.
Naveen V. Poojary & Reshma Naveen secured first place, while Derick D’Souza & Joyline D’Souza won second place.
Celebrating Tulunadu Culture and Community Spirit in Oman
OKKOOTA 2026 was more than just a get-together. It provided an opportunity for Tuluvas living in Sohar and across Oman to reconnect with their roots, strengthen friendships and pass on their cultural traditions to younger generations.
Through community gatherings and cultural initiatives, Nama Tuluver Sohar continues to promote the language, traditions and heritage of Tulunadu while fostering a strong sense of belonging among Tuluvas living away from their homeland.
The games, cultural traditions and special felicitation made OKKOOTA 2026 a memorable occasion for everyone who attended. The event reinforced the importance of unity, friendship and preserving the rich identity of the Tulu community.
OKKOOTA 2026 concluded as a celebration of togetherness, cultural pride and lasting memories, reflecting the continuing efforts of Nama Tuluver Sohar to bring the Tulu community together in Oman.
Nama Tuluver Sohar – Celebrating Tulunadu, Building Unity.
