media release
Manama (Bahrain), October 14: Kannada Sangha Bahrain and its members experienced a double celebration on Friday, October 6th with the grand opening of the new Dr. Ronald Colaco Lounge within the recently constructed Kannada Bhavana. At the same time, the Sangha launched a new Executive Committee and ushered in a new era of leadership and community engagement.
The morning ceremony began with the esteemed presence of the Honorable Home Minister of Karnataka, Dr. G. Parmeshwara, who officially inaugurated the luxurious Dr. Ronald Colaco Lounge. The lounge has been lavishly furnished and generously donated by prominent NRI businessman and philanthropist Dr. Ronald Colaco, and is dedicated to the comfort and use of Sangha members.
AICC Secretary Dr. Arati Krishna, former Karnataka State NRI Forum Vice-President and other prominent personalities. Dr. Ronald Colaco. Ravikumar Gowda, MLA from Mandya. Mr. Mithun Rai, General Secretary of KPCC, inaugurated the lounge. The event was held at the magnificent halls of Kannada Bhavana and esteemed guests had the opportunity to explore the various activities of the Sangha and admired the unwavering dedication of the Kannadigas to preserve the rich culture of the state. did.
In the evening, Kannada Sangha Bahrain held the formal inauguration of the new committee under the direction of Chairman Amarnath Rai. The prestigious Mövenpick Hotel was the setting for the event and Vinod K Jacob, India’s Ambassador to Bahrain, was the chief guest. Home Minister Parameshwara was the guest of honour, along with distinguished guests such as Dr. Arati Krishna, Dr. Ravikumar Gowda, Dr. Mithun Rai and Haji Abdul Razak, President of Dakshina Kannada Sunni Islamic Association, Bahrain. I decorated it.
The new committee members were formally sworn in and presented with badges by Dr. Parameshwara to mark their new roles during their term.
In his speech, Ambassador Jacob praised Karnataka’s achievements and highlighted the state’s attractiveness as a key investment destination for local and Bahraini NRI investors. He highlighted the growing interest in India and Karnataka and acknowledged the Sangha’s 40-year commitment to community service and remarkable efforts in building a new Kannada Bhavana.
Dr. Parameshwara echoed Ambassador Jacob’s sentiments and highlighted Karnataka’s commitment to economic development, poverty alleviation and social welfare. He encouraged NRI and Bahraini investors to seize the unique investment opportunities presented by the country and praised the Sangha’s tireless efforts and achievements.
The new Kannada Bhavana with its impressive facilities drew further praise from Dr. Parameshwara who expressed his pride in touring the Bhavana.
President Amarnath Rai acknowledged the history of the Sangha and the efforts made by its members and committee to establish the first Kannada Bhavana outside India and expressed his gratitude to all the distinguished guests. He also praised outgoing President Pradeep Shetty, General Secretary Kiran Upadhyaya and their team for their seven years of dedicated efforts towards making the construction of Bhavana a reality. Mr. Rai thanked the Karnataka government for its unwavering support.
President Amar Rai submitted a memorandum to Dr. Parameshwara requesting further government support to complete pending works and settle payments related to bhavanas with contractors.
Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara announced a generous donation of Rs 1,000 crore for Bhavana from his family foundation and promised to recommend an additional Rs 2,000 crore contribution from the government to the Sangha.
The event also included the launch of a book chronicling the life and journey of Dr. Ronald Colaco, a man known worldwide for his philanthropy, highlighting the importance of supporting worthy causes and those less fortunate.
In a ceremony in traditional Karnataka style, KSB welcomed Ambassador Vinoth K. Jacob, Home Minister Parameshwara, Dr. Arati Krishna, Dr. Ronald Colaco, Mr. Ravikumar Gowda, Mr. Misun Rai and outgoing Pradeep. – President Shetty, senior Sangha member Haji Abdul Razak, and regional leader Mr. Anand were honored. We would like to thank Lobo for his valuable contribution.
Sangha members who contributed to the realization of the Kannada Bhavana Dream Project were honored, while the cultural and sports teams were recognized for their outstanding contributions. Culture Secretary Jagadish and Assistant Culture Secretary along with their senior colleagues played a key role in organizing the event.
During the event, the audience was entertained with various dance performances by Vidwan Sujay J. Shanbhag from Hubballi, Karnataka and his troupe of talented artistes of the Sangha. A special dinner was held with approximately 650 participants.
The program was meticulously coordinated by General Secretary Ramprasad Ammenaka and ably hosted by Sandhya Pai and Sivananda Patil. The traditional Indian welcome, ‘Poornakumbha Sugata’, set the tone for a memorable and joyful occasion that celebrated not only the achievements of the Sangha but also Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage.