Media Release
Bangkok, May 7: The Thai Kannada Balaga (TKB) celebrated Ugadi 2025 with grandeur, emotion, and deep cultural pride on Sunday, April 27th, in Bangkok. The event, which commenced with high tea, brought together the Kannada-speaking community and friends in a joyful and meaningful gathering to mark the Kannada New Year.
Presiding as chief guest was R Muthu, consular officer at the Indian Embassy in Bangkok, who delivered an inspiring keynote address, urging the Indian diaspora to “stay connected to your language and culture wherever you are.” His heartfelt message resonated strongly with the attendees and set the tone for the evening.
The programme began with the national anthems of Thailand, India, and Karnataka, followed by a solemn one-minute mouna anjali (silent tribute) for the victims of the recent Pahalgam, Kashmir incident. TKB kids then opened the stage with a soulful Kannada prayer song, setting a spiritual and emotional tone for the evening.
TKB president Muthu welcomed the gathering and introduced the newly formed committee:
• Secretary: Priyadarshini Shamanth
• Treasurer: Sandeep Shanbag
• Committee members: Kiran Prabhu, Chandana Gengaraju, Sushmitha Nayak, Michael Veigas, and Margaret Tauro
The evening featured a delightful lineup of cultural performances. Classical Bharatanatyam dancers from SVCC (Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre) delivered a graceful performance that drew enthusiastic applause. A mesmerizing dance drama based on the story of Abhimanyu from the Mahabharata, performed by Suhasini and Master Tanush from the Telugu community, captivated the audience.
Another highlight was an elegant Bharatanatyam presentation by Dr Nayana, Nutan, Annapoorneshwari, and Pushpa, representing the Soundarya Natya Kalalaya Foundation Bangkok. Their synchronized grace and expressive storytelling earned high praise from all.
A standout debut came from TKB’s very own kids’ band, 'Sambar Sounds', featuring young talents Anish, Bhuvi Prisha, Chiraksh, Dakshata, Gehna, Prisha, and Yethin. Their spirited renditions of Kannada songs brought energy and cheer to the room.
The celebration was further elevated with a fun-filled couple fashion show and interactive games, skillfully coordinated by Sushmitha, Margaret, and Anu, which saw enthusiastic participation across all age groups.
The event concluded with a grand 'Habbada Oota' served traditionally on banana leaves (bale ele), evoking a deep sense of nostalgia and joy among the community. A heartfelt vote of thanks was delivered by president Muthu, followed by a joyous group photo capturing the vibrant spirit of the celebration.
A special note of appreciation was given to John Wilson Pinto, whose dedication to capturing all the beautiful moments through his photography and videos ensures that these treasured memories live on for years to come.
The spirit of unity and cultural pride echoed the sentiment— 'Ellarigu Hosa Varshada Shubhashayagalu” wishing everyone a Happy New Year.