These Kudla girls like doing things differently

Some encountered family opposition, while others found instant approvals. But that doesn't make either of their journeys any less illustrious. Today, girls in Kudla are charting hitherto unexplored territories and making career choices that have been unheard of in the traditional stronghold of Tulunadu. Their tales have been those of grit, guts and glory.As Mangalore Times celebrates its fourth anniversary this year, we profile some of these women achievers, who have managed to carve a niche for themselves against all odds...

Raised by a single mother, Anushri didn't have an easy childhood. Soon after completing her college, she auditioned for a local television channel in Mangaluru to fend for her family and was selected. She then moved to Bengaluru and went on to work in several vernacular TV channels. Today, she is one of the most sought after anchors on Kannada television and enjoys immense popularity.

Having grown up in an academically oriented family at a village in Kundapur, Chaitra Puthraya defied conventions when she opted to turn an art director for Kannada films. Even though her family couldn't fathom what this job entailed, they wrapped their head around it when they saw her face across TV channels, as she delivered her stints on the sets of various films including , and .

The story of these Shetty twins is one of grit. How else would you explain their journey that comes marked with parental disapproval, discreet dance lessons to becoming TV reality show sensations and finally making a foray into films? Today, the girls are fast climbing the popularity charts in Sandalwood, which is a far-cry from the days when they had to hide from their father and practice dance moves.

Being a farmer's daughter didn't dim Mamatha Poojary's lofty dreams. Having been actively involved in sports right from her school days, Mamatha defied traditional notions and chose to play Kabbadi professionally. Having captained the Indian Kabbadi team, Mamatha was conferred with the Arjuna award in 2014 along with also winning several gold medals at international events including the 2014 Asian Games.

She is one of the foremost female biking enthusiasts in the Karavali region, besides also being the founder of an all-girl biking club. The 32-year-old moonlights as a dentist by day and turns a fierce biker by the weekend. She also happens to be one of the rare girls who enjoys immense parental support when it comes to her unique passion with her mother being her biggest fan.

Belonging to a family of bank employees and doctors from the conservative town of Kundapur, Shwetambari Shetty, did raise a few eyebrows when she decided to quit her high-paying corporate job and become a fitness trainer. But today, the family is smiling from ear-to-ear as Shwetambari has become a Zumba trainer and a popular name in Bengaluru's fitness circle.