• Overview: Dakshina Kannada district is located in Karnataka, India, with Mangalore as its headquarters. It lies between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, receiving substantial rainfall during the monsoon season. The district is known as the Cradle of Indian banking.
• Geography: The district features coastal plains and hilly terrain, with significant rivers like Netravathi and Kumaradhara flowing into the Arabian Sea. Shirlalu village is the highest point at 1,115 m (3,658 ft). The area is characterized by lateritic soil and a tropical monsoon climate, with average annual rainfall around 4,030 mm.
• Administration: Dakshina Kannada comprises nine talukas: Mangalore, Puttur, Sullia, Bantwal, Belthangady, Kadaba, Ullala, Mulki, and Moodabidri. The district has one City Corporation (Mangalore) and various municipal councils and town panchayats.
• Demographics: As of the 2011 Census, the district's population is 2,089,649, with a density of 457 inhabitants per km². It has a literacy rate of 88.62% and a sex ratio of 1,018 females per 1,000 males. Tulu is the most widely spoken language (48.57%), followed by Beary, Malayalam, Konkani, and Kannada.
• Religions: The religious demographics show Hindus (67.18%) as the majority, with significant Muslim (24.02%) and Christian (8.20%) communities. The district has a rich history of Jainism and Buddhism as well.
• Culture: Traditional customs and rituals are prevalent, with notable practices like Nagaradhane (snake worship) and Kambala (buffalo racing). The area is renowned for its temples and vibrant cultural festivities.