Dubai: 39th 'Koodukatt' get-together of UAE Bunts showcases Tulu culture
Pics: Prakash D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network – Dubai (SP)
Dubai, Apr 27: The 39th annual ‘Koodukatt’ get together of UAE Bunts organized on Friday April 26 at JW Mariott Hotel here, will be remembered by the participants for its grandeur, rich cultural programmes, and high entertainment content.
The programme was inaugurated by well-known entrepreneur, Dr B R Shetty, by lighting the lamp and breaking of the betel inflorescence. Young and the old alike took part in the cultural and entertainment events which unfolded in front of the eyes of a large crowd which had gathered at the venue.
Dr B R Shetty could not control tears from rolling down his eyes, while watching the play, ‘Appena Tyaga’ presented on the occasion. Speaking later, he explained about the sacrifices made by his mother for him. He advised the people never to overlook the interests of their mothers. “She always sacrifices for the sake of her children. Her virtues and blessings carry her children forward in life. Never forget her, if you have her blessings and good vibes, you will never get let down in your lives,” he opined.
Shetty remained at the venue since morning to evening, and watched every bit of the proceedings. “I am very proud to note that the Bunt community has so many talented members. The dance programme presented by the children touched my soul. The fashion show in which young Bunts were involved, was so good that it was a step ahead of the professional shows,” he appreciated.
Famous Bollywood choreographer, Ganesh Hegde, who was the chief guest of the programme, said that he feels happy to be belonging to such a distinguished community. “Bunts have excelled in every field, and brought fame and name for their community. Although my father is a Bunt, my mother is a Parsi. I love chicken Sukka. We should put in effort to make our children cultured,” he felt.
On the occasion, the title, ‘Bunta Vibhushana’ was conferred on national award-winning teacher, Kudi Vasant Shetty. Shetty’s wife, Lata, was also present on the occasion. Replying to his felicitation, Vasant Shetty advised people to always revere one’s parents, not to forget the Tulunadu culture, and give attention towards rejuvenating Tulu language and way of living, which are passing through a difficult phase now.
The programme was guided by UAE Bunts president, Sarvottam Shetty. Acme Building Materials owner, Harish Serigar, producer of ‘Nirel’ movie and journalist, Shodhan Prasad, main sponsor, Pravin Shetty and wife, Roopa of Fortune Hotel, Shekhar Shetty and his wife, Kushala of Arab Udupi Hotel, Ravi Shetty and Dr Anita, Sujana Shetty and Nandita, Premanath Shetty and Bhagya, Sahana Gunasheela Shetty and Asha, and several others were honoured on the occasion.
The talent rewards meant for the children were handed over by Dr B R Shetty.
‘Radiac Fashin Show presented by Jayashree Shetty, Shobha Shetty and troupe, mixed classical dance by the children of Symphony Dance Institute, Sharjah, which was choreographed by Satish Hegde, and Hindi Mix Masala dance presented by the Children from Abu Dhabi enthralled the people. The dance drama, ‘Sri Ganesha Stuti’, was composed by Veena Satish. ‘Shambhu Sutaya’ dance was choreographed by Jayashree and Jasmit Vivek. Sufi dance was choreographed by Lata Prasanna Shetty, for the children from Dubai. Ganesh Hegde also joined in the celebration by shaking his legs for ‘Chammak Challo’ song from Ra One.
Jayaram, Jyotika, Sampat Shetty and Surekha acted well in the play, ‘Appena Tyaga’ which affectively portrayed the sacrifices made by a mother. It was directed by Jayaram Rai. In the folklore dance competition section, ‘Namma Tulunadu’ dance drama secured the first prize. ‘Shivabhakti Ravana’ dance drama was placed second, while ‘Janapada Jatre’ stood third. The mythological play, ‘Birdada Beere Devapunje’ presented by Vishwanath Shetty and his friends also came in for lavish praise.
On the occasion, a new executive committee of UAE Bunts was formed, and its members were introduced to the audience. Satish Shetty delivered the welcome address.
Cultural programmes which upheld traditional art forms of the coast, filmy dance, Bharatnatyam, short skits, Fashion Show, and folklore dance competition etc succeeded in keeping the audience thoroughly entertained and happy.