Udupi: Mega Convention of Billavas – Leaders Lay Stress on Unity
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (SP)
Udupi, May 9: A district level mega convention of Billavas was organized on Sunday May 8 at Lord Vishwanath Temple, Katapadi in the taluk. The convention was organized for giving impetus to the overall development programmes planned at the temple, apart from chalking out ways and means to achieve balanced growth of the community.
Sri Brahmananda Saraswati Swamiji of Lord Rama Temple in Kanyadi, who inaugurated the convention, urged the Billavas to adhere to the principles preached by Brahmasri Narayana Guru. “Draw inspiration from the guidance he provided to us. Let Billavas develop a balanced approach and unite. Then alone they will be able to effectively tackle the problems the community might encounter on their path towards total development,” he felt. Lamenting that talk about Billava unity and progress is limited at present to speeches delivered from the different forums, he wanted these speeches to turn into a reality. “Come together. Discuss all the issues with an open heart. Then alone will you be able to achieve inclusive growth of Billavas,” he said.
MLC and All India Congress Committee secretary, Oscar Fernandes, who was present, felt that Billavas, who have the potential to win under any situation, can emerge as a stronger force, if they come together, and draw up plans for their integrated growth.
Former union minister, Janardhan Poojary, addressing the gathering after initiating the development works at the temple, said that the main problem the Billavas are facing is that the members of the community have been fighting among themselves. He felt that if they come together, this temple can be developed in a way even better that Kudroli temple in Mangalore. “Do not be remain content by exhibiting your money power. Show your dedication, sincerity, and willingness to dedicate yourselves to the task of achieving progress of your brethren,” he exhorted.
MP, D V Sadanand Gowda, while noting that there is no dearth of leaders, organizations and other facilities a,pmg the Billavas, lamented lack of unity among the people of the community.
A number of leaders including former MP, Vinay Kumar Soarke, MLC, Kota Srinivas Poojary, MLAs, Lalaji R Mendon and K Raghupati Bhat, Bhatkal MLA, J D Naik, former MLAs, V Sunil Kumar and P Basavaraj, zilla panchayat president, Katapadi Shankar Poojary, B N Shankar Poojary, Udupi municipal president, Kiran Kumar, All India Billava Federation president, Jaya C Suvarna, All India Billavara Union president, Navinchandra D Suvarna,and various other dignitaries and leaders participated in the convention in the capacity of chief guests.
Elected people’s representatives, achievers, and talented students belonging to Billava community were felicitated on the occasion.
Temple governing council president, Ashok M Suvarna, welcomed. Development Committee president, and former minister, Vasant V Salian, delivered introductory address. Honorary general secretary, Harishchandra Amin, proposed vote of thanks. Narendra Kumar Kota and Paramananda Salian presented the programme.