By Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network—Mumbai (RD)

Mumbai, Apr 9: Mumbai University (MU) department of Kannada organized a seminar, book release ceremony, and felicitation programme of distinguished individuals for their extraordinary contributions at J P Nayak Auditorium, MU, Kalina Complex, Santa Cruz (East), on Saturday April 7.

Veteran Kannada litterateur Dr G V Kulkarni chaired the seminar on Mumbai -Kannadigas’ contributions, while award-winning stage artiste Dr Bharat Kumar Polipu presented a paper on unity and Dr K Raghunath presented a paper on education.  Chandra Joshi presented a paper on contributions of Mumbai-Kannadigas in entrepreneurship.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Kulkarni said that the earnestness of students can assure success in any sphere. He added that hard work is the key for students to lead prosperous future citizens.

Dr Bharat Kumar said that the Kannadigas who migrated to the metro several decades ago, founded various associations in order to support their community for a better future. He added that the associations have grown over the years to be significant institutions.

MU Kannada department chief Dr G  N Upadhya said that the students studying in the department has grown from 20 to 70 now and natives of other states are also pursuing Kannada studies.

Dr Vyasarao Ninjoor (literature), L V Amin and Virar Shankar Shetty (social service), P G Burde (construction), Professor Sitaram R Shetty (Kannada literature), lawyer Rohini Salian (legal), Daya Sagar Chowta (journalism), and Vasant Suvarna (organizing) were felicitated for their contributions.

Kannada ‘Kaavya Lahari’, musical concert by Vidhushi Shyamala Radhesh, was staged as part of the cultural programme.

Jyoti Devadiga welcomed the gathering.  Poornima Shetty compered the programme while Surekha Nayak proposed the vote of thanks.