from Shodhan Prasad
for Daijiworld Media Network - Abu Dhabi (GA)
Abu Dhabi, Nov 26: Billawara Balaga Abu Dhabi, one of the oldest Billawas' community organizations in UAE felicitated Shri Atmananda Saraswathi Swamiji of Kanyadi “Rama Kshetra” along with Sadhu Poojary at Arab Udupi Restaurant Hall on November 25, 2007.
It was an evening of religious discourse and divine blessings. Programme commenced with welcome speech by Shodhan Prasad. Manohar Tonse, chief coordinator of Balaga introduced the chief guest Shri Atmananda Swamiji and guest of honors Sadhu Poojary and Kamalakshi Sadhu Poojary.
During the felicitation programme, Swamiji was presented with shawl by Kishore Kotian, bouquet by Shodhan Prasad and fruits' basket by Suresh Salian. Sadhu Poojary was presented with shawl by Ramesh Suvarna, bouquet by Naveen Kankanady, fruitss basket by Mahesh and memento by Dayanand Bangera. Sunitha Jagannath honored Kamalakshi Sadhu Poojary with flower bouquet.
In his blessing, Swamiji said that caste is not that which counts but the noble deed, which pleases God and one's own soul. One should be prepared to sacrifice for the good of others. "Give up ego, self-centered activities and think of humanity at large." he advices the gathering.
Swamiji gave tips to the mothers gathered on the occasion to teach the children particularly those who are below 10 years about morality, values of life and lessons on God as rest all is taught in school.
Sadhu Poojary in his address emphasized on the significance of education in the community. He said that commitments and determination alone can bring the community to the forefront and this is possible with unity and harmony. Kamalakshi, the other guest, called for the action from gathered women folk and appealed not to confine themselves to the domestic chores.
In the end Ramesh Suvarna proposed the vote of thanks. S B Shetty of Arab Udupi Restaurant Group was one among the dignitaries who witnessed the programme. Swamiji blessed everyone with akshate and prasadam. All those who attended the programme enjoyed a sumptuous vegetarian dinner arranged at the venue. This program was the courtesy of Billawas Dubai & Northern Emirates.