Media Release

Bahrain, Nov 13: It was a day of double delight for the Kannada Sangha Bahrain and its members recently, as they marked the inauguration of the new Dr Ronald Colaco Lounge at the brand-new Kannada Bhavana and the induction of the new executive committee.

Dr Ronald Colaco happens to be the largest donor, after government of Karnataka, for this first Kannada Bhavan outside India. Indians in Bahrain also enjoy the distinction of having the first Indian club outside India having established way back in 1915 and Dr Ronald Colaco happens to be the largest donor to this Indian club as well, during its centenary celebrations in 2015, graced by former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam.

The events of inauguration of Kannada Bhavan Lounge named after Dr Ronald Colaco were well attended by esteemed guests and dignitaries, both from Karnataka and Bahrain.

Karnataka’s home minister Dr G Parameshwara, inaugurated the Dr Ronald Colaco Lounge in a grand ceremony. The lounge, elegantly furnished and donated by NRI businessman and philanthropist Dr Ronald Colaco, is intended for the exclusive use of the Sangha members.

The inauguration was attended by prominent figures, including Dr Arati Krishna, AICC secretary and deputy chairman of the NRI Forum of Karnataka; Dr Ronald Colaco; Ravikumar Gowda, MLA from Mandya; and Mithun Rai, KPCC general secretary.

A brief ceremony took place at the Kannada Bhavana’s Kannada Sahithya Parishath Vedike Hall and later the guests later toured the Kannada Bhavana, appreciating its various facilities.

Later in the evening, the spotlight shifted to the official induction of the new committee, led by Amaranath Rai. The ceremony unfolded at the prestigious Movenpick Hotel, with the Indian ambassador to Bahrain, Vinod K Jacob, as the chief guest. Home minister Dr Parameshwara graced the event as the guest of honour, joined by distinguished guests such as Dr Arati Krishna, Ravikumar Gowda, Mithun Rai, and Haji Abdul Razak, president of Dakshina Kannada Sunni Muslim Association, Bahrain.

Each new committee member received a badge of honour from Dr Parameshwara, symbolizing their official induction into their roles.

During his address, Indian ambassador Jacob commended the achievements of Karnataka and highlighted the state’s appeal as a significant investment destination for both local and NRI investors from Bahrain. He emphasized the growing interest in India and Karnataka. He also acknowledged the Sangha’s four decades of service to the community and its admirable endeavour in building the new Kannada Bhavana.

Dr Parameshwara Commended social, charitable works and infrastructure support extended to the Government of Karnataka in several fields by Dr Ronald Colaco and said that he is not surprised to see his contributions to the causes our State or Country even on the Foreign Soil.

Further, Dr Parameshwar echoed Indian ambassador Jacob’s sentiments, shedding light on Karnataka’s economic progress and its commitment to poverty alleviation and societal well-being. He encouraged NRIs and Bahraini investors to seize the unique investment opportunities presented by the state.

Dr Parameshwara praised the Sangha’s tireless efforts and accomplishments, emphasizing the pivotal role of such institutions in meeting the cultural needs of Kannadigas abroad. He hailed the Kannada Sangha Bahrain as a model for others to follow.

The new Kannada Bhavana, with its impressive facilities, garnered further praise from Dr Parameshwara, who expressed his pride in touring the Bhavana.

Sangha president Amarnath Rai expressed his gratitude to all distinguished guests for their presence, acknowledging the Sangha’s history and the efforts made by its members and committees to establish the first Kannada Bhavana outside of India. He also lauded the outgoing president Pradeep Shetty and general secretary Kiran Upadhyaya, and their team for their seven years of dedicated work in realizing the Bhavana’s construction. Rai thanked the Karnataka government for their unwavering support.

President Amar Rai seized the opportunity to submit a memorandum to Dr Parameshwara, requesting further government assistance to complete pending works and settle payments related to the Bhavana.

To thunderous applause, Dr Parameshwara announced a generous donation of Rs 1 crore from his family foundation for the Bhavana and pledged to recommend an additional Rs 2 crore donation from the government to the Sangha.

A book chronicling the life and journey of Dr Ronald Colaco in his Charitable works without any barriers of region or religion for over three decades and who is globally recognized figure for his philanthropic works, was unveiled during the event. Dr Colaco emphasized the importance of supporting worthy causes and the less fortunate, encouraging all to follow suit.

In a traditional Karnataka-style honour, Indian ambassador Jacob, Dr Parameshwara, Dr Aarti Krishna, Dr Ronald Colaco, Ravikumar Gowda, Mithun Rai, outgoing president Pradeep Shetty, senior Sangha member Haji Abdul Razak, and community leader Anand Lobo were recognized for their contributions.

The programme, meticulously coordinated by general secretary Ramprasad Ammenadka, was masterfully hosted by Sandhya Pai and Shivananda Patil.

A ‘Poornakumbha Swagatha’ (traditional Indian welcome) greeted the guests at the event’s outset, setting the tone for a memorable and joyous occasion.