Strong swells, cyclonic activity may challenge surfers at 6th NMPA Indian Open of Surfing in Mangaluru

MANGALURU: The stage is set for the sixth edition of the NMPA Indian Open of Surfing (NMPA IOS) at the Tannirbhavi Eco Beach. Organised by the Surfing Swami Foundation and hosted by the Mantra Surf Club under the aegis of the Surfing Federation of India (SFI), from May 30 to June 1, this is the second stop of the 2025 National Surfing Championship Series.Adding a dramatic layer to this year’s edition is the surf forecast, with wave heights predicted between 10 to 12 feet across the competition dates. These powerful swells will demand precision, stamina, and strategy, elevating both the thrill of the contest and the difficulty for competitors. Due to cyclonic activity and unpredictable weather patterns over the Arabian Sea, the ocean may prove to be an unpredictable competitor and play a spoilsport to the event schedule.

The heightened challenge will also have implications for national rankings, especially with the Asian Surf Championship 2025, a qualifier for the 2026 Asian Games, on the horizon.Originally scheduled at Sasihithlu Beach, this year’s competition has been relocated to Tannirbhavi Eco Beach due to unfavourable weather and wave patterns at the former site. While Sasihithlu has been synonymous with the Indian Open of Surfing for years, the new venue promises comparable wave quality while ensuring better safety conditions for surfers and spectators alike.

“With a strong field of athletes and a challenging forecast of 10–12 ft waves, we are in for an intense and exciting three days of competition. This event would not be possible without the unwavering support of New Mangalore Port Authority, Karnataka Tourism, and Cycle Pure Agarbathies, who continue to champion the growth of surfing in India,” said Rammohan Paranjape, Vice President of Surfing Federation of India and Director at Mantra Surf Club.In the lead-up to the sixth edition of NMPA IOS, local Grom events have been underway, aiming to unearth surfing talent in the region. These grassroots competitions not only build momentum ahead of the national championship but also set the stage for a sustainable pipeline of talent.