Shri Krishna Kulai
Abu Dhabi, Nov 24: The Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha organised a grand celebration of Karnataka Rajyotsava on November 16 at Global Indian School, Abu Dhabi, with more than 600 Kannadigas gathering in traditional attire to celebrate the occasion away from their homeland.
The programme began in the packed auditorium with narration by Karnataka Sangha office-bearer Shri Krishna Kulai. It opened with a prayer by Bhavani Ram, followed by a choir performance by non-resident Kannadigas. A comedy play titled Sundariya Maduve by Veena Mallya and team entertained the audience with laughter. Manohar Thonse introduced magician Kudroli Ganesh, who captivated the gathering with his magic show.
Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha president Sarvotham Shetty welcomed the guests, recalling Karnataka’s journey and remembering those who contributed to Kannada literature and art. A minute of silent prayer was observed in memory of Prakash Rao Payyar of Dhwani Pratishtan, environmentalist Saalumarada Thimmakka and renowned writer SL Bhyrappa. The programme was inaugurated with lighting of the lamp in the presence of guests and office-bearers.
Prominent Kannadiga in the UAE, B R Shetty, presided over the event. Presidents and representatives of various organisations from Dubai, Al Ain and Ras Al Khaimah were present. Sarvotham Shetty thanked all sponsors and conveyed the good wishes sent by chief sponsor and humanitarian Ronald Colaco, who could not attend. Kudroli Ganesh was honoured for entertaining the audience.
The prestigious Da Ra Bendre Award, presented annually by Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha to achievers who render special service to Kannada in the UAE, was awarded to Savita Naik of Al Ain Kannada Sangha. Senior office-bearer and writer Manohar Thonse delivered the citation. B R Shetty recalled participating with Sarvotham Shetty in the formation programme of Al Ain Karnataka Sangha four decades ago. Dignitaries and association office-bearers honoured Savita Naik with a shawl, garland, flowers and memento. Responding to the honour, she expressed gratitude, hoping it would inspire many others. B R Shetty urged all Kannadigas to work together for the common good.
Certificates of appreciation were presented by B R Shetty to students of Jayalakshmi Bhat, who teaches Kannada free of cost in Abu Dhabi. Sarvotham Shetty congratulated Suresh Bhat and Jayalakshmi Bhat for their service, emphasising that learning one’s mother tongue is every child’s right.
Students of classes 10 and 12 who excelled academically were felicitated. Office-bearers Loyal Pinto and Altaf read out the names of the awardees and invited them to the stage.
Children learning Kannada in Abu Dhabi sang a group song, infusing the hall with Kannada spirit. Lunch was served thereafter.
After the break, children performed another group song, followed again by a magical performance by Kudroli Ganesh.
The main attraction of the Rajyotsava celebration, a folk dance competition, was then held. Shruti Bhat introduced the event and provided details. Eight teams from across the UAE participated, showcasing a vibrant display of local talent. Each team performed impressively, winning appreciation from the audience.
Swastika and team presented a beautiful folk group song, followed by another group performance by Shrutikrti team. In his concluding remarks, Sarvotham Shetty said folk culture is the root of Kannada identity, and efforts must be made to preserve it. Prizes were then distributed to winners, beginning with women's rangoli competition results, followed by awards for the folk dance competition. The hall resounded with applause.
Technical coordination for the event was handled by office-bearer Chetan Gopal. Photography was done by Shivanna Gowda of Abu Dhabi.
In the final segment, Sarvotham Shetty introduced the organising team and office-bearers — Manohar Thonse, Sudhir Shetty, Vijay Rao, Shri Krishna Kulai, Loyal Pinto, Altaf MS, Srinivas Aras, Krishnaraj Rao, Chetan Gopal, Sandeep Rao, Yatiraj Shetty, Unkal Eashwar and Chandru Poojary.
This was the 44th year of the Rajyotsava celebration, which brought together non-resident Kannadigas in a vibrant, festive atmosphere. Attendees mingled, exchanged introductions, took photographs with dignitaries and enjoyed a display of cultural talent by children and artistes. From 11 am to 5 pm, the hall echoed with Kannada spirit, marking yet another memorable Karnataka Rajyotsava hosted by the Kannadigas of Abu Dhabi.