UAE: The Kannada Sangha Al Ain celebrated its 15th anniversary in a grand manner on April 20 at Al Ain Hilton Hotel Auditorium which was a full day event witnessed by a large number of Kannadigas.
Convener K B Ramesh along with his committee members put in tremendous effort to make the event a grand success.
The programme was inaugurated by chief guest Ashok Palya, Admin Manager of JSS International School, guest Mohit Chaturvedi, Ganesh Rai, former president of Sharjah Karnataka Sangha and Arshad Sharif, a senior supporter of the Sangha.
With the recitation of the Holy Quran by Farouq, the programme was launched. Kamini delivered the welcome note and all the guests on the dais lit the traditional lamp, thus inaugurating the programme.
Kamini and group presented a melodious song, children presented three group dances, Lobo and Group presented Konkani Baila songs and a group dance. Little children presented a fashion show and few other presentations mesmerised the audience who applauded throughout.
The chief guest and other guests were felicitated and honoured during the function.
Former president of Sharjah Karnataka Sangha B K Ganesh Rai, a Kannadiga from the Coorg District residing in UAE for several years and who has worked for the Kannada Language, Art, Folk, Literature, Culture and Social Service including support for blood donations in this part of the world for more than two decades, was bestowed with the “Vishwa Manya Kannada Rathna” Award in recognition of his service towards Kannada as a whole. While U P Harish read out his recognition letter, President K B Ramesh felicitated him amid committee members of Kannada Sangha Al Ain.
Kannada Sangha Al Ain also honoured Nithyanand Shetty, Da Borappa and Edwin Lobo in recognition of their long service with Kannada Sanga Al Ain from its inception.
Amogh Shetty who excelled in academic studies and dance choreographer Shalini D’Souza were also felicitated.
Kannada Sangha Al Ain also honoured all the sponsors who have been supporting the association for many years.
“Hammar An Naam” a book written by Aditi Beleme Kumar, who did intensive research on the life of the camel, a treasure of the desert was honoured during the event for her contribution.
All the 25 long standing committee members of Kannada Sangha Al Ain, were recognised during the event.
“School Mestru” (School Teacher), a comedy skit by the members of Sangha was performed. This was followed by a dance drama on Ramayana by the girls group and one-act play by Purshotham and Group.
Dr. B N Kumar conducted the lucky draw. President K B Ramesh proposed a vote of thanks.
Farouq and Savita Nayak conducted the whole programme.
