Daijiworld Media Network - Mysore (SP)
Mysore, Oct 7: The 60th birth day celebrations of Ashok Kheny, managing director of Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprises, was witnessed by thousands of people who congregated at the Maharaja College grounds in the city on Monday October 5 evening.
Leading spiritual heads of various mutts in the state, southern movie stars like Rajanikant, Ambarish etc., were present at the grand dais erected for the purpose, to greet Kheny on this occasion.
Udupi Pejawar Mutt Swamiji Sri Vishweshateertha, who presided, prayed that the raingod will have mercy on the state and prayed to the Lord to provide relief and solace to the affected people. He hailed Kheny as an eminent Kannadiga, who is known for his courage and adventures, and wished that he will lead Kannada and Karnataka through prosperity.
Sri Raghaveshwara Bharati Swami of Ramachandrapur Mutt expressed appreciation at Kheny's efforts to fashion the state's roads on American model. He gifted Kheny an Indian breed of cow on this occasion.
Kheny was felicitated by placing the 'Mysore Peta' on his head, draping a shawl around, and handing over an idol of Lord Maruti, besides showering flowers on him. A special helicopter rained flowers on Kheny and other dignitaries. On this occasion, a large-sized statue of Sri Basaveshwara, a great humanitarian, philosopher and social reformer who was against the caste system followed by Hindus, proposed to be installed at Sri Shivaratreeshwara Circle in the city, was unveiled. To signify 60 years of Kheny, Suttur Swamiji lighted 60 lamps through a remote button.
Hundreds of Kheny's fans lined up to greet Kheny with garlands and mementoes.
The highlight of the show was a fluent speech delivered by Tamil super star Rajanikant. At the birth day celebrations, Rajanikant spoke for ten minutes in flawless Kannada and hailed Kheny for his achievements. Rajani saluted the Swamijis congreagated for the purpose and wished that Kheny will continue with his efforts to modernize the state and show the same grit and determination he has exhibited all along.