Kumbra's new selfie point highlights local culture and history

Kumbra, a rapidly developing junction in Puttur taluk, has added a new attraction—a selfie point—that is drawing visitors and enhancing its appeal.

Established as part of the Kumbra Merchants’ Association’s 20th anniversary celebrations, reflects the concept of a “clean village” and has been aptly named Porluda Kumbra.

The selfie point is located along the roadside at Kumbra Junction and features an eye-catching bullock cart and symbolic wheels as part of an ornamental pillar design. A plaque narrating Kumbra’s historical significance, once known as Bantalappu, has also been installed. This attraction has become popular among students, travelers, and visitors on the Puttur-Sullia route, who stop to click photos.

A nod to Tulu Culture

The project was executed by Akarshan Industries and is being lauded as a celebration of Tulu Nadu’s heritage. Triveni Pallattaru, the President of Olmogru Gram Panchayat, praised the effort, while Akarshan Industries’ owner, Mohammad Sadiq Haji, credited friend Narayana Acharya for conceptualizing and constructing the bullock cart.

Rafique Alray, President of the Merchants’ Association, emphasized the community’s commitment to maintaining Kumbra’s cleanliness and ensuring its continued cultural relevance.

Historical significance of the bullock cart

Kumbra has a deep connection with bullock carts, which were once a primary mode of transportation for goods between Mangaluru, Bantwal, Kalladka, Madikeri, and Sullia. Traders often stopped overnight at Kumbra, where locals provided food for both the travelers and their bullocks. The selfie point’s bullock cart symbolizes this historical legacy.

In the past, Kumbra served as a border point between the Vittla and Panja regions, with a boundary stone marking its location. This historical landmark led to the village being known as Bantalappu, a name fondly remembered to this day.

The initiative has not only preserved Kumbra’s rich history but also positioned it as a unique cultural stopover for modern travelers.