Daijiworld Media Network - Leicester
Leicester (UK), Sep 14: The 2026 annual gathering of Britain Billava Balaga, organised with the objective of further strengthening the unity, cultural heritage and social bonds of the Billava community in the United Kingdom, was successfully held at Holiday Inn Leicester–Wigston on September 12.
More than 150 members and families of the Billava community from over 20 cities and towns across the UK participated in the gathering, celebrating community unity, friendship, culture and heritage. The active participation of members representing various professional and social fields reflected the community's solidarity and strong bonds.
A special feature of the gathering was that more than 90 members stayed overnight at the hotel and participated in a community breakfast organised the following morning. This provided an excellent opportunity for families to interact and further strengthen friendship and community ties.
President Dr P K Manoj Poojary's message
In his presidential address, Dr P K Manoj Poojary said that the 2026 annual gathering was a very special day for the Britain Billava community. He stated that the gathering of such a large number of Billavas from different parts of the UK on a single platform was a sign of the community's unity and growth.
He expressed gratitude to the committee members who contributed to the success of the gathering and thanked the presidents and representatives of Billava organisations from different parts of the world for their greetings and support.
Referring to the professional capabilities of the Britain Billava community, he said that the community includes experts from various fields, including associate medical directors, doctors, aeronautical engineers, dentists, IT managers and renowned chefs.
He stressed that one of the key priorities of the Balaga is to ensure that the younger generation grows while maintaining a connection with their roots, culture and heritage.
Cultural programmes receive appreciation
The Yakshagana–Bharatanatyam fusion performance was a special attraction of the cultural programmes held during the gathering. This was followed by dance and singing performances by members and families of the Billava community in the UK.
The enthusiastic participation of children, youth and elders added further colour to the programme. A special quiz titled "Billavas' Roots, Culture and Pride", conducted by programme anchor Vinod Pademar, also received an excellent response.
The quiz, aimed at reminding participants of the origins, culture and pride of the Billava community, saw enthusiastic participation from children, youth and elders.
New website for the Billava community
Another important highlight of the gathering was the official launch of a new website for the Billava community in the United Kingdom, www.billawas.co.uk.
The website has been designed to provide information about community programmes, activities, important updates and future plans on a single digital platform. It marks an important step towards making communication easier among Billava families residing in different parts of the UK.
Support from professionals and entrepreneurs
The financial support required for organising the 2026 gathering was provided through sponsorships by professionals and entrepreneurs from the Billava community in the UK.
Along with the success achieved by community members in their respective professional and business fields, their support for community activities served as an excellent example of mutual cooperation and unity.
Organising team's contribution
The coordinated efforts of the Balaga committee members and volunteers played a key role behind the success of the gathering.
Balaga Secretary Leena Kotian spoke about plans to actively involve youth and the next generation in community activities.
Treasurer Dheeraj Anchan handled responsibilities related to the financial and community activities of the programme.
Manjunath Poojary's contribution to the Balaga's IT support and organisational activities was noteworthy. Vinod Pademar played a key role in planning and coordinating the programme, while Prasanna Suvarna made significant contributions to logistics and management.
The guidance and support provided by Sandesh Vivekananda towards the Balaga's programmes were also specially remembered.
The gathering was successfully conducted with the cooperation of community members, professionals, entrepreneurs and volunteers.
The event was not merely an annual programme but emerged as a community celebration that brought together Billava families residing in different parts of the UK on a single platform, celebrated their culture and heritage, and inspired pride in their roots among the next generation.