Media Release

Abu Dhabi, Nov 5: UAE’s leading Kannada association, Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha (ADKS) celebrated Karnataka Rajyotsava in grandeur amidst several dignitaries and scores of Kannadigas.

The most prestigious award presented every year to dignitaries who have been recognized for their exceptional service in the field of language and culture was conferred on the famous Yakshagana artiste and teacher Shekhar Shettigar by the dignitaries present at the Kannada Rajyotsava celebration.

The celebration was presided over by the patron of Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha and chairman of BRS Ventures Dr B R Shetty. Alongside him, Dr Chandrakumari B R Shetty, managing director of Hyssna International LLC Ronald Pinto, chairman of Arab Udupi Hotels - Shekhar Shetty, poet, guest and president of Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha - Asadulla Beig, Sarvotham Shetty and members lit the traditional lamp and initiated the celebration.

Dr B R Shetty honoured Shekhar Shettigar with a shawl, flowers, memento and appreciation letter. Wife of Shekhar Shettigar was present during the honour.

On receiving the honour, Shekhar Shettigar expressed his joy for having been chosen for the prestigious award. He said, "Besides honour to a person, this honour also indicates the respect of Yakshagana lovers to all artistes and people who selflessly dedicate their service to the field of Yakshagana." He thanked the ADKS president Sarvotham Shetty and the members for recognizing his contribution to Yakshagana.

As part of the celebration, Adarsha Dampathigalu contest was the main attraction of the event. Many cultural, classical music presentations elaborated the tradition and richness of Kannada.

Famous poet and shayari performer Asadulla Beig presented humorous rib tickling shayaris and comedy punch which brought on a laughter riot in the auditorium.

Guest artiste Sahil Shetty compered the programme. Sarvotham Shetty, Manohar Thonse compered the formal proceedings of the stage programme. On behalf of Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha, sponsors and supporters were honored with mementos as a token of gratitude.

Chairman of Fortune group of hotels - Praveen Shetty, managing director of ACME Building Materials LLC - Harish Sherigar, many Kannada related association leaders were present at the celebration.