News & Pics: Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network–Mumbai (EP)
Mumbai, Jan 25: “Bunts should try to preserve their original culture. The part of women is as necessary in it as that of men. Though people have been converted to other religions in Tulunadu, Bunts have not given up their self respect,” said Mangaluru university professor Manjula Shetty.
She was speaking in the annual conference of Gurupura Bantara Matra Sangh on Monday January 25.
“Girls have never been a burden in Bunts community. Though dowry has decreased in their weddings, their lavish spending practices have remained. It is necessary for Bunts community to think about it. Earlier they used to pay Rs four to five lacs as dowry and now they are spending Rs ten to fifteen lacs for the weddings,” she added.
Speaking on the occasion, taluk Bunts Sangh president Raviraja Shetty said that he will contribute as much as possible for the community programmes.
Meginamane Umesh Rai, co-convener of working committee, Bantara Mathra Sangh, Mangaluru said that he will help the poor in their weddings and the sick.
Bunts community youth Nithesh Shetty who passed CA examination was honoured on the occasion.
Senior member Lingumaru Shivanna Shetty released community membership card. Gurupura Vajradehi math's Rajashekarananda Swamy opined that the community should be an example to other communities.
The association also announced their upcoming projects such as free transport vehicle during weddings of poor girls, distribution of sewing machines, construction of houses for homeless with the help from donors, monetary help during weddings and also help for sick, physically challenged and talented students. The association will also actively take part in cultural and other competitions.
Newly elected president Rajakumar Shetty welcomed. Naresh Shetty proposed vote of thanks. Ex officio president Umesh Munda, Jayalaxmi Shetty, Jagadish Shetty, Nalini Shetty were present on the dais.
Treasurer Sathyananda Shetty read the annual report. Bunts children presented dance and Kaup Prashamsa group presented 'Bale Thelupuga' comedy programme.