Bahrain: Dr Veerendra Heggade to Grace 'Sambhrama'
from Ronald D F D’Souza & Joe Andrade
for Daijiworld Media Network - Bahrain
Bahrain, Jun 4: The executive committee of Kannada Sangha, Bahrain, under the chairmanship of Austin Santosh had a preparatory meet on Tuesday June 3 to discuss the preparations for 'Sambhrama 2008' to be organized on July 4, 2008 at the Al Raja School, Bahrain.
The highlight of the day long 'Sambrama 2008' is that it will be graced by a famous and popular personality from Karnataka, the revered Dr D Veerendra Heggade, who has kindly consented to be the chief guest for the occasion. Dr Heggade is well-known for his benevolence and altruism. He is a philanthropist, educationist, social reformer and an emissary of art and culture.
Dr D Veerendra Heggade is the Dharmadhikari of Dharmasthala, a temple town situated in South Kanara. 'Dharmadhikari' is a religious head who instills lofty and spiritual values among seekers who come to him. He was educated at St Joseph and Government Arts College in Bangalore. Dr Heggade was made the Dharmadhikari on October 24, 1968, after the demise of his father. Ever since, he has worked for the betterment of society. He has won renown and adoration for the simplicity of his nature and nobility of action and has been a guardian figure and a last resort for many a suffering soul and the unemployed.
Dr Heggade’s last visit to Bahrain was in the year 1994, when the current president Austin Santosh was the general secretary of the Kannada Sangha, Bahrain.
A grand cultural programmeme comprising songs and dances along with a Yakshagana performance is being planned at the Al Raja School premises on July 4 by the executive committee, with the cooperation of the members of the club. A number of sponsors have come forward in support of the programmeme and its successful performance.
Various suggestions were taken from the members present on the floor and all pledged to give wide publicity in Bahrain for the programme and work for its success. A colourful eight-page brochure is also being planned to be released on the day, highlighting Dr Heggade’s many achievements, the various educational and charitable institutions he has founded, details of various awards conferred on him, his charitable works and opportunities he has provided for the unemployed.
A warm welcome is being planned for Dr Heggade and his troupe visiting Bahrain in a 'Poorna Kumba Swagatha' cultural style, typically with colourfully dressed ladies carrying the 'Kallasa' (bronze pot), a traditional welcome that is a hallmark and passed on to the present day from the ancient Kannadigas.