Media Release
Mangaluru, Nov 7: The grand finale of Coastal Karnataka’s biggest brass band festival, ‘Pepere Pepe Dum,’ is set to be held at Kelarai Church ground, Mangaluru, on November 9 and 10. Organized by ‘Ami ani Amchim’ organization, the event promises two days of musical extravaganza.
Brass band competition: The final round of this exciting competition will feature five teams from Kelarai, Neermarga, Omzur, Madanthyar, and Bajpe. The event will kick off on Saturday at 5 pm, showcasing innovative performances and experiments in the field of brass band music.
‘Dr Ronald Colaco Harmony Award – 2024’ presentation: On the second day, November 10, the ‘Dr Ronald Colaco Harmony Award – 2024’ will be presented at 5 pm. This award was instituted to honor Dr Ronald Colaco, a prominent philanthropist and NRI entrepreneur, for his immense contributions to society.
About Dr Ronald Colaco: Hailing from Dakshina Kannada, Dr Colaco completed his early education in a rural setting and graduated in BCom from Sheshadripuram College, Bengaluru. He pursued a successful career in multinational companies abroad before establishing his own business ventures. A committed philanthropist, Dr Colaco pledged a portion of his earnings to support various sectors, including education, health, infrastructure, religion, culture, and sports. His support has benefitted over 23 sectors, and he has notably contributed to the development of Kannada, Konkani, and Tulu languages. He also funded the construction of Kannada Bhavana in Bahrain and has supported various religious institutions to promote harmony.
Debut awardee: This year, the award will be presented to Shri Panditaradhya Shivacharya Swamiji of Sanehalli Shakha Matha, Shri Taralabalu Peetha. Born in Hediala village, Ranebennur Taluk, Swamiji holds an MA in Philosophy and is recognized for his social service, spiritual guidance, and environmental advocacy. Sanehalli, under his leadership, has become a cultural hub promoting art, literature, music, and drama. Swamiji's work exemplifies harmony, coexistence, and unity.
Dignitaries attending: The event will be graced by Bengaluru Archbishop Dr Peter Machado, Karnataka Home Minister Dr G Parameshwar, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta, MLC Ivan D’Souza, former MLA J R Lobo, Dakshina Kannada DC Mullai Muhilan, police commissioner Anupam Agarwal, and IRS officer Queenie D’Costa, among others.
Additional attractions: The venue will feature various stalls offering traditional food items, along with entertainment activities and competitions. Entry to the event is free.