Abu Dhabi: UAE’s leading Kannada association, Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha celebrated the Karnataka Rajyotsava in a resplendent manner here in the presence of many dignitaries and hundreds of Kannadigas.
The most prestigious Da Ra Bendre award which is presented yearly to those who have done exceptional service in the field of language and culture was conferred upon famous Yakshagana artist and teacher Shekhar Shettigar on the occasion.
The celebration was presided by patron of Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha and chairman of BRS ventures Dr B R Shetty. Along with him Dr. Chandrakumari BR Shetty, Ronald Pinto – Managing director of Hyssna International LLC, chairman of Arab Udupi hotels Shekhar Shetty, poet and guest Asadulla Beig, president of Abu Dhabi Karnataka sangha Sarvottam Shetty and members lightened traditional lamp and initiated the celebration.
Dr BR Shetty honored Shekhar Shettigar with a shawl, flowers, memento and appreciation letter. Shekhar Shettigar’s wife too was present during the felicitation. Speaking on the occasion, Shekhar Shettigar expressed his happiness on having been chosen for the prestigious Da Ra Bendre award.
“This honor is not towards one person but it is a mark of respect by Yakshagana lovers to all the artists and people who have selflessly dedicated their service to field of Yakshagana,” he said. He thanked ADK president Sarvottam Shetty and members for recognizing his contribution to Yakshagana.
The Adarsha Dampathigalu contest was the main attraction of the event. Apart from this several cultural and classical musical presentations elaborated the tradition and richness of Kannada.
Famous poet and shayari performer Asadulla Beig had the audience in splits with his humorous rib-tickling shayari and comedy punches.
Guest artist Sahil Shetty compered the program. Sarvottam Shetty, Manohar Tonse compered the formal proceedings of stage function. Sponsors and supporters were honored with memento as a token of gratitude on behalf of Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha
Chairman of Fortune Group of Hotels Praveen Shetty, managing director of ACME building materials LLC Harish Sherigar and other Kannada-related association leaders were present at celebration.
