Kanike

Kanike is a Tulu word, commonly used in the coastal Karnataka region of India, referring to a type of offering made to deities, especially in temples and during religious ceremonies. It encompasses a range of items offered, including but not limited to:

• Cash offerings: Monetary donations made in the deity's name.
• Material offerings: These can include rice, coconuts, fruits, vegetables, flowers, incense, and other items used in worship rituals.
• Offerings of service: In some contexts, "Kanike" can refer to voluntary service provided to the temple or the community in the deity's name.

The purpose of offering Kanike is varied and includes seeking blessings, fulfilling vows, expressing gratitude, or seeking redressal of grievances. The act of offering is considered a sacred and integral part of religious practice in the Tuluva region. The specific items offered as Kanike often depend on the specific deity being worshipped, the temple's customs, and the individual devotee's intentions. The concept is deeply rooted in the cultural and religious traditions of the Tulu-speaking community. The management and use of Kanike donations often fall under the purview of the temple administration or governing body.