Mangaluru: Moments of unlimited fun filled the Kadri Park Road during the second Happy Streets event of The Times of India here on Sunday. Kids, parents, professionals, officials, and people from all sections of society thronged the Kadri Park Road to make the Happy Streets literally a happy event.
Various activities of fun and fitness in the lineup began with a soothing session of yoga by Yoga House Mangaluru, led by Deepak V Naik, where participants were introduced to the calmness of meditation and exercises. An energetic zumba exercise session featuring dance-based routines by the Zumba Fitness Studio created an exhilarating atmosphere as participants across age groups, from children to seniors, followed the steps demonstrated by instructor Akshay Sherigar. Emcee Mithesh electrified the stage with his effortless zumba moves.
“Zumba is not just a workout as people perceive. There is dance and more entertainment in it too,” Sherigar said.
The Happy Streets event reached a high point with the participation of French tourist Stephanie Poli in the Bhima Mannequin Challenge, where her performance earned her a prize, further elevating the event’s celebratory atmosphere. Simultaneously, assistant sub-inspector B Chandrashekhar of Mangaluru East police gave his best at the challenge, securing a prize and adding to the overall enthusiasm and competitive spirit.
Young visitors were thrilled to meet Bagira, a seven-year-old horse, and Maithri, a four-year-old, from the Mangaluru Horse Riding Academy, led by Avinand Achanahally, at the venue.
The audience erupted in enthusiastic applause as students from the Institute of Karate and Martial Arts showcased their skills. The spectators were equally impressed by the graceful hula hoop display presented by performers from the Revelation Studio Inc.
Manish Acharya and his team from Achman Skills of Life introduced Krav Maga, the Israeli self-defence system. Engaging the audience in their demonstration, they showcased counter-techniques designed to help women confidently handle eve-teasing and other threatening situations.
The members of Revelation Studio Inc delivered an electrifying dance performance that inspired the crowd to join in, creating a spontaneous street celebration.
An exclusive painting studio by artist Anudeep Karkera gave children a space to bring their imagination to life, adding to the event’s lively atmosphere. Due to popular demand, the number of booths was increased.
The Happy Streets initiative blended high-energy fitness activities with creative pursuits, fostering a vibrant community spirit. The event was supported by Mangaluru City Traffic police and the horticulture department.
As part of the festivities, Loy D’Souza won a gold coin in the Bhima Lucky Draw. Meanwhile, Mithesh Kulal’s dynamic presence kept the energy high, engaging the crowd from 7.30am to 10am.
Tips from ACP
Assistant commissioner of police (CCRB) Geetha D Kulkarni explained how India redefined child-friendly laws by making them gender-neutral. “Earlier, the IPC had separate definitions for girls and boys. However, the new BNS has gender neutrality wherein girls, boys, and the third gender are considered equally,” she explained and provided valuable tips to avoid being bullied by cybercriminals.
First and foremost, do not ever receive unknown video calls. Similarly, do not click any unknown links and discuss no financial matters over the phone.” She also suggested people contact 112, https://cybercrime.gov.in/ or dial 1930 to register any such complaints.
Quotes
“It’s a great morning where I could see a lot of energy. Just like the Happy Streets you organise, we as police officers also run Happy Offices, where people are always welcome to air their grievances. I will make sure that to the best of our capability, we would help you. This kind of event should be repeated in Mangaluru”
Sidharth Goyal, DCP (law & order), Mangaluru City police
***
“Everyone should spare at least an hour for workouts if we want happiness and health in life. Events like Happy Streets, sports, or any other physical activities including fitness, yoga, etc. are essential in life. This will enhance the performance level of people, especially officials, businessmen, or students. My day begins with half an hour of meditation followed by an hour of exercise”
K Ravi Shankar, DCP (crime & traffic), Mangaluru City police
***
“Having missed the inaugural Happy Streets event, I felt delighted to witness numerous activities and children’s enthusiastic involvement today. There were many relaxing things to see at the event. My daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed our time participating in the festivities”
Snehal NK, IT professional
***
“I liked the whole concept of Happy Streets which brings a good feeling. It was fun to be part of the Zumba, yoga, and meditation. I learnt new methods of fitness activities by participating in the event”
Rekha Chatterjee, homemaker
***
“The introduction of Happy Streets to Mangaluru City is a welcome development. Similar events have already proven successful in cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Bengaluru. However, Mangaluru was lacking such events. I took an active part in the exercise sessions during the event”
Radhika Shetty, entrepreneur
***
“Children actively participated in the painting and drawing activities at the Happy Streets event. They showed enthusiasm by drawing pictures of flowers, bees, cartoon characters, and unicorns at the venue”
Anudeep Karkera, artist