Media Release
Doha, Jul 30: As many as eight Karnataka-based associations in Qatar united to successfully host a sports meet for the Indian blue-collar workforce under the theme “Stronger together through sports – unity, health & spirit!” at Pearling Sports Academy, Doha. The event saw enthusiastic participation from nearly 300 workers, celebrating unity, team spirit, and the joy of healthy competition.
The organizing associations included Karnataka Sangha Qatar (KSQ), Karnataka Muslim Cultural Association (KMCA), Tulukoota Qatar, Mangalore Cricket Club (MCC), South Kanara Muslim Welfare Association (SKMWA), Mangalore Cultural Association (MCA), Bunts Qatar, and Billawas Qatar, all affiliated to Indian Cultural Center under the aegis of Embassy of India, Qatar.
Participants were grouped into four vibrant teams named after iconic Indian rivers—Ganga (blue), Kaveri (yellow), Godavari (red), Sindhu (purple). These teams were mentored respectively by KMCA sports secretary Sayed Ashfaq & Bunts Qatar Sports secretary Naveen Shetty, MCC vice president Ryan Renjar & KSQ sports secretary Sarfraz Thambitkar, Tulukoota sports secretary Vijaya Shetty & MCA sports secretary Dorothy Quadros, and SKMWA vice president Mohammed C A & Billawas Qatar media coordinator Nithin Sanil —bringing color, energy, and identity to the event. The oath-taking ceremony, led by Melroy Vaz, MCC joint sports secretary, set an enthusiastic tone for a day of spirited and friendly competition.
Winners & runners of the day in various games played: Box cricket (Godavari & Kaveri), carrom (Godavari & Sindhu), football (Kaveri & Godavari), volleyball (Godavari & Kaveri) and tug of war (Ganga & Sindhu).
The football finals drew special attention, with H E Vipul, Indian Ambassador to Qatar, and first secretary Harish Pandey witnessing the match and later joining the closing ceremony and prize distribution.
Speaking at the ceremony, KSQ president Ravi Shetty welcomed the gathering and highlighted the significance of supporting Qatar’s sports initiatives while fostering community well-being.
First secretary Harish Pandey commended the Karnataka associations, stating: “This sports meet reflects the unity and commitment of Karnataka associations in promoting the well-being of the Indian workforce in Qatar. It is inspiring to see the community come together to create such meaningful events.”
In his address, Ambassador H E Vipul praised the efforts of the organizers: “Despite the challenging weather, the Karnataka associations have demonstrated remarkable dedication. Sports not only build fitness but also strengthen friendships and community spirit. I am proud to be part of this event that brings joy and recognition to the hardworking members of our community.”
Winners and runners-up were honored with trophies and certificates, creating a moment of pride and celebration for all participants. Indian Sports Centre MC member Chandrashekar Angadi hosted the closing ceremony and KSQ general secretary Kumar Swamy proposed a vote of thanks.
Ramachandra Shetty, Anil Boloor, LG Patil, Dhananjay Rai, Dinesh Gowda, Shashidhar, Saleem Ali Ullal, Sarfraz Abdul Rahman, Bheemappa Khot, Nilesh Ranadevi, Sandhya Rai, Ahmed Shamsheer, Chanchalaxi Anil, Nithin Kumpala, Sadanand Rai, Rajagopal Shetty, Pradeep Mendonca, Sachin Monteiro, Muneer Sheikh, Sumanth, Prashant, Sanath among others have extended their support to organize various events with meticulous planning.
Special thanks were extended to Pranav Shetty of Pearling Sports Academy for providing the venue and additional facilities. American Hospital supported the event with first aid services, while all participants were treated to snacks and dinner.
The event was attended and encouraged by several community leaders, including Sitendu Pal, vice president ISC; Mahesh Gowda, KSQ advisory chairman; Gladson Almeida, president MCA; Naveen Shetty, president Bunts Qatar; Aparna Sharath, president Billawas Qatar; Vijay Rai, vice president Tulukoota, & past president SKMWA; Abdul Majeed along with senior members of all eight Karnataka associations, who encouraged and motivated the participants.
V S Mannangi, Harish Baliga, Chidanand Rai, Aparna Sharath and Ramachandra Shetty have extended their support in mobilizing participants from their respective camps.
The sports meet highlighted the power of collaboration, fostering teamwork, fitness, and friendship among the blue-collar workforce — a true reflection of the Karnataka community’s dedication to the wellbeing of fellow human beings.
“When communities unite, great things happen”, said one of the organizers. “This sports meet wasn’t just about winning but about creating moments of happiness and belonging for those who work tirelessly every day.”