Rons Bantwal
Udupi, Jun 22: A preparatory meeting for the upcoming Devadiga Maha Adhiveshana-2026, scheduled to be held in Udupi on December 20, was organized at the Devadiga Samaja Seva Sangha hall in Pavanje on Sunday, Jun 21.
Presiding over the meeting, Dharmapal U Devadiga, president of the Vishwa Devadiga Maha Mandala, emphasized the importance of unity. He stated that such conventions bring geographically scattered community members under one roof, creating awareness about their rights and existence. He highlighted the need to strengthen the organization from the grassroots level to ensure that the voice of the last person in the community is heard and discussed directly.
"The convention will provide a suitable platform for women and youth to develop leadership qualities and help the youth enter the mainstream. Furthermore, such gatherings play a crucial role in preserving our unique cultural and social identity, traditions, and heritage to pass on to the next generation," Dharmapal added, seeking the cooperation of all community members.
Chief guest Ravi S Devadiga, president of Devadiga Sangha Mumbai, pointed out that financial stability alone is not enough in the current era. "We need strong people power to successfully secure government facilities and social justice. Forming various sub-committees will help us formulate long-term plans for the community's development in the fields of education, employment, and business. We expect this from the upcoming convention," he said.
Organizing secretary Janardhan Padupanambur stressed the necessity of forming sub-committees for the solid functioning of the organization. Former Udupi municipal councillor Vijaya Kodavuru spoke on strengthening the organization from the base by forming grama sabhas.
Devadiga Sangha Pavanje women's forum president Vijayalaxmi Janardhan was present. Presidents and office bearers from various regional sanghas, including Udupi, Udyavara, Katapadi, Kaup, Uchila, Padubidri, Yermal, Yellur, Belman, Bantakal, Palimar, Hejamadi, Mulki, and Pavanje, actively participated in the meeting.
Pavanje sangha president Annappa Devadiga Pakshikere, Udupi sangha president Ratnakar G S, Mangaluru sangha president Ashok Moily, and other visiting presidents shared their views and suggestions.
The meeting commenced with a prayer by Jayashree Yadav, vice president of the women's forum. Yadav Devadiga, vice president of the management committee of Ekanatheshwari Temple, Barkur, welcomed the gathering. Dharmapal U Devadiga was felicitated on behalf of Devadiga Samaja Seva Sangha, Pavanje, during the event.
Vishwa Devadiga Maha Mandala general secretary Ganesh Devadiga Ambalapadi delivered the introductory remarks. Immediate past president Ramdas Pavanje compered the programme, while Pavanje sangha vice president Satish Indiranagar proposed the vote of thanks.