Kamalaksha Amin

Bahrain, Sep 9: The Bahrain Billavas, an organisation representing the expatriate Billava community, is all set to host its public Ganeshotsav on Monday, September 14, bringing together devotion, tradition and cultural celebrations in a festive tribute to Lord Ganesha.

The annual celebration, being held under the leadership of newly elected Bahrain Billavas president Raj Suvarna, will take place at the auditorium of the Kannada Bhavan in Manama.

The festivities will commence at 7 am with Ganapati puja and other religious rituals. Bhajans and a range of religious and cultural programmes will follow. A host of special attractions, including cultural performances and entertainment programmes by children and local artistes, have also been lined up for the occasion.

The celebration assumes special significance for the expatriate community as it provides an opportunity to preserve and promote the culture, religious practices and traditions of their homeland while living abroad. The organisers have also encouraged families to participate, particularly with the aim of familiarising the younger generation with their cultural roots, customs and traditions.

Mahaprasad and annasantarpane (community meal) will be arranged for devotees attending the celebrations. The festive atmosphere will continue throughout the day with a variety of programmes before culminating in the immersion of the Ganapati idol at around 9 pm.

Bahrain Billavas has extended an invitation to members of the Billava community as well as all Kannadigas and devotees from all communities to join the public Ganeshotsav and contribute to its success.

For further information about the programme, Bahrain Billavas president Raj Suvarna can be contacted at 36060523.