Tiger Dance is a unique form of folk dance in Dakshina Kannada that fascinates all people. Since tiger is considered as the favoured carrier of Goddess Sharada (the deity in whose honour Dussehra is celebrated), this dance is performed during the Dussehra celebration. It is also performed during other festivals like Krishna Janmashtami, etc.,.

Aati festival is also one of the festivals especially celebrated in Mangalore. It commences from July 17 and runs up to August 15. Aatikalanja is a ritualistic folk dance performed by the Nalke community. Kalanja is the name of a minor spirit who is in charge of the protection of the village folk during the month of July-August, the rainy season.