Media Release
Qatar, May 14: Bunts Qatar, a socio-cultural association from the state of Karnataka and affiliated with the Indian Cultural Center (ICC) under the Embassy of India, celebrated their annual event, Bunthotsava-2023, on May 5 at DPS-MIS. The program was graced by chief guest, Manikantan, ICC president, and guests of honor, Dr V Surendra Shetty, former pro-vice chancellor of MAHE-Manipal India, renowned Sandalwood actor Pramod Shetty, Subramanya Hebbagailu, vice president of ICC, Vinod Nair, past president of ICBF, and event sponsor J Chidananda, general manager of M Pallonji Qatar. Also present on the dais were Deepak Shetty, chairman of Advisory at Bunts Qatar, Dineshchandra Shetty, vice president of Bunts Qatar, and Manas Shetty, general secretary of Bunts Qatar.
Dr Padmashree Shetty, president of Bunts Qatar, welcomed the gathering, and the event was hosted by Naveen Shetty Iruvail and Vibha Krishna Shetty.
The grand celebration was witnessed by presidents from apex bodies, presidents from Karnataka-based organizations, members of Bunts Qatar, and members of Karnataka-based associations.
The prestigious "Seva Sampada" award for outstanding community service was conferred upon two eminent personalities residing in Qatar: Asmath Ali, the past president of Tulu Koota Qatar and community leader, and Subramanya Hebbagailu, vice president of ICC. Visiting artists Dr Niranjan Murthy and Kishore Shetty were also felicitated. Talented children and members who excelled in the field of sports and academics were honored during the event. Founder President Ravi Shetty was felicitated for being awarded the Karnataka State Rajyotsava Award in 2022, and Deepak Shetty, chairman of Advisory at Bunts Qatar, was honored for being elected as the Vice President of ICBF.
The highlight of the event was an exuberant cultural extravaganza showcasing the festivals of Tulunad by talented members and children. The colorful and artistic performances, including folk dance, kambala, pili dance, yakshagana, keel kudure, kalari payattu, and larger-than-life size dolls, brought the rich cultural heritage of Tulunad to life and received a standing ovation from the packed audience.
The Tulu comedy drama "Avu Dala Apujji" presented by the well-known Lakumi troop from Mangalore entertained drama lovers with its emotional and witty scenes.
The auditorium was beautifully decorated, depicting the heritage house of India from the entrance to the stage, welcoming the audience with the warmth of Tulunad culture.
Avinash Shetty proposed a vote of thanks.