Abu Dhabi: Karnataka Sangha celebrates Rajyotsava with grand event
Report: Shodhan Prasad
Pics: Sujith - News Karnataka
Abu Dhabi, Nov 3: Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha, one of the premier organisations for Kannadigas in Abu Dhabi celebrated 'Karnataka Rajyotsava' at Indian Social Centre Auditorium, Abu Dhabi with jam-packed Kannadiga audience who witnessed the grand day-long event on Friday November 1.
The programme sponsored by In-Land Builders started at around 11 am and was inaugurated by patron Padmashree Dr B R Shetty, Indian ambassador to UAE M V Lokesh and Siraj Ahmed, managing director of In-Land Builders with lighting the lamp along with other dignitaries. Karnataka Sangha president, Sarvotham Shetty delivered the welcome speech and honoured the guests with bouquets.
M V Lokesh in his address said, "Kannada resides in the heart of all Kannadigas and one should appreciate when you see Rajyotsava celebrated with togetherness." He thanked the Kannadigas residing in the UAE for their contribution in keeping the language alive and keeping up the tradition in this part of the world.
Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha also bid farewell to the outgoing Indian ambassador in UAE, M V Lokesh who will be proceeding as Indian ambassador to Switzerland. He was honoured with headgear 'Mysore Peta' and shawl draped by Dr B R Shetty and bouquet by Siraj Ahmed.
'Da Ra Bendre' Award was conferred on C R Shetty, ex-president of Karnataka Sangha Dubai on the occasion. Acknowledging the honour, he said, "I am thankful to Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha for giving me this award. All Kannadigas must come together for the betterment of Karnataka no matter where they reside."
Dr B R Shetty felicitated Siraj Ahmed, managing director of In–Land Builders and thanked him for being part of the successful event. Siraj Ahmed in his address, said, "Mangalore is a rapidly growing city and In-Land Builders has always tried to create projects that are an architectural splendor and are also Vaastu compliant."
The programme continued with a variety of cultural events showcasing the rich heritage of Karnataka, presented by Sri Mookambika Cultural Academy from Puttur, Divya Sharma and group and Rohini Ananth group who presented the 'Shilabaalike' dance. Renowned comedian and TV actor Dayanand also entertained the gathering.
Mimicry Dayananda, who entertained the audience during the programme, was also felicitated and congratulated. Puttur Mookambika Cultural Academy’s Bhavani Shankar and his wife were felicitated for presenting ‘Kavi Kanda Karnataka’ and ‘Shiva Tandava Nritya’ dance performances.
Meritorious students who excelled in their academics were felicitated on the occasion.
The programme was organised under the initiative of Karnataka Sangha president Sarvotham Shetty and other office bearers.
Other prominent personalities who witnessed the programme included Thomas John of Indian Social and Cultural Centre, Sudhir Kumar Shetty, CEO of UAE Exchange, Shekar B Shetty of Arab Udupi Group of Companies, Shreekanth Babu, Ronald Pinto, Leo Rodrigues of Al Mazroui & Clevy Automobiles, Ullasraj, Sundar Shetty of Nihal Restaurant, Sadandas, president Kannada Koota, Satish Poojary, president of Sharjah Karnataka Sangha, Girish Shetty, president of Karnataka Sangha Dubai, James Mendonca, president, Mangalore Konkans Dubai, Satish Venkataraman of Chilly Willy Trading, Vilas Nayak and Shiv Sharan Shetty of Namma TV.
Mangala compered the programme.