Mangalore to Stage High-Stakes Indian Open of Surfing This Weekend

From May 29 through 31, Tannirbhavi beach transforms into India’s premier surfing battleground as more than eighty athletes converge for the Indian Open of Surfing 2026. The meet doubles as the second leg of the National Championship Series and a critical tune-up before continental competition. With limited national-team berths on the line, every ride carries extra scrutiny from selectors monitoring form for the Asian Games. Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Goa have each sent their strongest squads, reflecting the sport’s rapid spread along both coasts. Ramesh Budihal’s bronze-medal run at the Asian Surfing Championship has set the benchmark, yet Shivraj Babu’s recent Little Andaman title proves the hierarchy remains fluid. Emerging talents such as Kishore Kumar are closing the gap with calm execution in heavy surf, while Shrikant D’s precise style offers a tactical counterpoint. In the women’s draw, Kamali P’s international pedigree clashes with Sugar Shanti Banarse’s fearless adaptability, promising memorable finals. Local knowledge gives Karnataka riders a slight edge on home sand, but changing swell and tide conditions could reward any surfer who reads the ocean best. The event also showcases how far Indian surfing has progressed in just seven years, turning once-quiet beaches into proving grounds for the next generation of continental competitors.