This is the first illustrated book on the cultural history of the region Showcases stunning high-definition photographs which encompass the visual richness of the landscape, architecture, and festivalsExplores the historical, cultural, and artistic heritage of Kanara, the Arabian Sea coastal belt of modern Karnataka in India. The densely forested coastal district of Kanara, now known as Dakshina/Uttara Kannada, has been celebrated through the centuries as one of Asia's principal sources of pepper and rice. Kanara preserves a unique blend of long-established cultural traditions, ranging from ancient Buddhist relics and Jain and Hindu monuments to extant temple festivals, bhuta ceremonies, and performing arts such as Yakshagana theater. In spite of these diverse and lively cultural strands, Kanara remains little known outside south India. Considering the unique qualities of this region, it is surprising to discover that there is almost no book exploring the region's unique cultural heritage. The overall purpose of this volume would be to introduce the region through stunning color photographs, while at the same time offering well-researched articles authored by leading scholars, both Indian and foreign.