Report and pics: Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai (EP)

Mumbai, Dec.23: “Tulu-Kannadigas are indeed actively involved in social welfare activities.  Meanwhile, they are known to launch their own organizations wherever they settle down.  It is also unique to strive for the welfare of own community and society.  The jest of Tulu-Kannadigas for life is exemplary.  The Kannada journalists play key role in electing 4 MLAs of Dakshina Kannada origin from metro”, said Ville Parle (East) MLA Krishna S Hegde.

MLA Hegde was speaking after releasing 2014 Diary and Directory of Kannadiga Patrakartara Sangha Maharashtra (Regd.) during a function held at Billawar Bhavan, Santacruz (East) here on Sunday December 22 morning.

MLA Hegde further said that he feels surprised on himself for being elected as MLA in the constituency that has majority of Maharashtrians, Gujaratis, and minority community.  The struggle for justice has earned him success.  He has several media friends, while if Kannadiga Patrakartara Sangha Maharashtra issues an identity card to him, it would make him a full-pledged journalist, said MLA Hegde.

“The media plays greater role in creating social justice to common man and exposing the scams of politicians.  It’s certain that such deeds may disappoint politicians but indeed the society gains.  The media persons should be committed to the ethics of profession being impartial in reporting.  I feel proud that Patrakartara Sangha is constructing its own building in my constituency.  I contribute Rs 50,000 in this regard.  I will convince my colleagues to contribute their might in this regard.  Let all your plans becomes successful,’ said MLA Hegde.

LV Amin said that he has regards for Kannada journalist who have come to metro in search of better opportunities just like him.  The respect that they bestow on fellow brethrens of undivided Dakshina Kannada origin is rare in metro, said Amin.

Shiva Mudigere said that this Sangha set an example for other organizations in striving for the society.

Vasu Devadiga said that Kannada journalists in metro contributed immensely in promoting Tulu – Kannadiga organizations in Maharashtra.  He conveyed best wishes for the Sangh to prosper in taking the causes of common man with the concerned departments.

Jayaram N Shetty said that Kannada journalists in metro have brilliant ideas who are striving to create general awareness through media.  They are also trying to build a strong bond with homeland Karnataka and mediam, he said.  He also lauded the rapid growth of the Sangh.

Chandrashekar Palettady said that it iss the golden times for Kannada journalists of Maharashtra.  The Sangh has released the third directory which shows unity.  The ambitious project of constructing Patrakartara Bhavan in metro is likely to be realized very soon.  The unity of journalists is essential for further growth.  Meanwhile, the members have got to make use of Health Fund that has been launched for the benefit of its members, said Palettady.  Billawar Association Mumbai ® president L V Amin was the chief guest of the occasion.

Young entrepreneur Shiva Shetty Mudigere, Devadiga Sangh Mumbai president Vasu S Devadiga, S M Shetty education Institutions chairman Jayaram N Shetty, Kannadiga Patrakartara Sangh Maharashtra ® auditor, chartered accountant Ullurguttu Shankar M Shetty were the guests of honor.

Identity cards were presented to Surendra A Poojary and Gregory D’ Almeida, who were appointed as advisory Committee members, and also to newly joined members.

Executive Committee members Pilar Suresh Acharya, Babu K Belchada, Shyam M Hande, Gurudutt S Pooja Mundkoor, Lawrence Coelho and Savita S Shetty, sports Committee president Jaya C Poojary, specially invited member Advocate Vasant S Kalakote and advisory committee member Advocate B Mohiudeen Mundkoor and others were also present.

Patrakartara Sangh Vice president Daya Sagar Chowta welcomed the gathering.  The treasurer G P Kusuma rendered the prayers.  The Directory publisher, editor and honorary chief secretary Rons Bantwal delivered introductory address.  Honorary secretary Harish K Hejmady compered the programme.  Executive Committee member Janardhan S Puria proposed vote of thanks.