Sarvotham Shetty elected Hon. President Intl of ‘Vishwa Tulu Ayono 2016’

executive@coastaldigest.com (Shodhan Prasad)
December 6, 2016

Dubai: This December 9 will be a historical day for all the Tuluvas in the world as the curtain raiser of five day conference of ‘Vishwa Tulu Ayono 2016’ will open up in Badiadka, Kasaragod, the border town of Karnataka and good to know that Sarvotham Shetty from Abu Dhabi has been chosen as the honorary President of the International Wing.

sarvo 13
There are around 156 Tulu Associations all over the world who are serving towards the Tulu community and society as a whole. And through some of the Tulu Associations in UAE, Sarvotham Shetty from Abu Dhabi has been contributing for almost three decades devoting time for the Tulu language and culture in this part of the world. It is a proud moment for the Tuluvas in UAE as he is being chosen for the honorary President of the International Wing.

Recital of true events – Sarvotham

As a true Indian, Kannadiga & Tuluva Sarvotham has always supported the culture, art, folk and language through various programmes in this part of the world. Being an artist himself with his leadership qualities he has guided many fellow Tuluvas/Kannadigas in very many events thus contributing to the community.

Born to Soorappa Hegde & Saraswati Shetty couple of Pareeka, Udupi District of Karnataka had completed his elementary and pre-University studies in Perdoor& Hiriadka; later travelled to Mumbai where he got graduated in Commerce in Podar College. In 1978 he was elected as the leader of the Senate in Mumbai University.

The acting skill within him was show cased when for the first time he participated in the very famous ‘Haggada Kone’ penned by the well-known writer Parvathavani during the inter college drama competition. During his course of studies for the first time ‘Kannada Sahitya Sangha’ was opened up in R.V, Podar College, Mumbai. He stroked first in very many drama competitions and was a good sportsman too; having received honours from Indian Cricketer Sunil Gavaskar and Pakistani Cricketer Sarfaraz Khan during his time. Indian Cricketer Vengsarkar & Politician Gurudas Kavar were his classmates.

He completed his studies in the year 1979 and wanted to start an Art Centre for Drama along with his friends and close associates in Mumbai. Soon ‘Kala Jagathu’ was formed and he became the founder member thus paving way for those Kannadigas in Mumbai to enhance their cultural activities. Now this organization with 37 years of existence is one among the several other Art Centre in Mumbai who dedicate themselves to Tulu and Kannada dramas.

After serving in Syndicate Bank, Mumbai for around 10 years he landed in the Arabian Gulf searching for better opportunities. He served continuously with International Distributors for around 26 years as General Manager and later started his own Automobile Workshop which is running successfully for the past 12 years in Abu Dhabi.

In the Gulf

For the last three to four decades he has been supporting very many Tulu Kannada Associations and has encouraged many talents to get a stage opportunity.

In 1995 he was elected as Vice President of Indian Social & Cultural Centre, Abu Dhabi and later elected for two terms in 1999-2000 & 2002-2003 as President which was for the first time any Kannadiga would have achieved in the past 45 years of the Centre’s existence. It was during his tenure the Centre was able to get a own land and permission to build huge independent premises for Indian Social & Cultural Centre in Abu Dhabi which created a record for himself too.

He was also elected as honorary Director of Abu Dhabi Indian School in the year 1997 wherein more than 7500 students of Indian origin as studying. He took leadership in inducing discipline and sportsman ship among the students of the School thus lending his time for overall developing. He was also the Chairman of School Sports Committee and main man behind opening up of the new branch of the school in Al Wathba where around 3000 students are studying currently.

In 1998 he was awarded ‘Karnataka Rajyotsava’ as he has been serving President of Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha spreading the fragrance of Kannada language, art and culture in a vibrant way in this part of the world. He also participated in the ‘Vishwa Kannada Sanskriti Sammelana 2004’ wherein the then Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramayya along with 14 delegates of Karnataka as well as representatives of Karnataka from around the world had gathered. This was one of the biggest event of Kannada ever organized until then.

In the year 2006 when Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha completed 25 successful years he was instrumental in bringing the then Chief Minister of Karnataka H.D. Kumaraswamy to inaugurate the Silver Jubilee function which was a record attempt made in the history of Karnataka that in 50 years a Chief Minister attending such event in the Gulf. It was in that year Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha was bestowed with ‘Suvarna Karnataka Rajyotsava’ Award which is another feather in the cap of Sarvotham Shetty as President of the Sangha.

Sarvotham Shetty actively participated in many Karnataka Associations including UAE Tulukoota, Nama Tuluveru UAE and Abu Dhabi Tulukoota. He as the President of UAE Bunts has keptencouraging community members into forming new committee every year thus delegating responsibilities and paving way for the success of various cultural activities of the Community every year. In UAE Tulu Toota he has been supporting the Committee Members for the past two decades in their annual events including Tulu Parba, Tablos, Sports Activities, and Art & Folklore.

In Abu Dhabi he was instrumental in starting the ‘Koosamma Shambu Shetty Memorial Women’s & Men’s Throw-ball Tournament under the umbrella of Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha which gave opportunities for very many Kannadigas who participate in this Tournament and win accolades. Teams not only from UAE but also from other Gulf Countries including India are participating annuallyin this event; which has given platform for around eight strong teams in both Women’s and Men’s whoseteams challenge every year.

Awards bestowed on Sarvotham

In 2009 he was bestowed with ‘Aryabhata Award’ for his service towards society
In Kuwait during the ‘Vishwa Kannada Sanskriti Sammelana’ he was bestowed with ‘Vishwa Maanya’ Award honoured by the great Poet Dr. Shivarudrappa.
Felicitated by Al Ain Buraimi Kannada Sangha
Felicitated by Bahrain Kannada Sangha
Felicitated by Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha
Felicitated by Dubai Karnataka Sangha
Felicitated by Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty at Narayana Hryudalaya, Bangalore
Felicitated by UAE Bunts & Bunts Throw-ball Dubai
Felicitated by Delhi Bunts Sangha
1998 won ‘Karnataka Rajyostava’ Award honoured by Chief Minister of Karnataka, J.H. Patel
‘Suvarna Karnataka Rajyostava’ Award honoured by Chief Minister of Karnataka, H.D. Kumaraswamy
‘Hryudayavantharu’ Award by Vishwa Kannada Sammelana in Mumbai
Plus many other felicitations for his charity support towards the needy.

Through his collections of emails and contact numbers of Kannadigas, he shares information of various Kannada/Tulu activities around the world through email media. He participates in various Blood Donation and Health Awareness programmes lending his moral support to these events and organisers. Almost all organizations in UAE invites him to their programmes whenever scheduled and he attends those without fail.

Shetty has acted in many historical & family dramas as well. Whether it is a meeting, event, sports day or picnic you will find him there with a mike in his hand and with his golden voice commanding the event. Always keep mingling with all his fellow associates, members of various communities freely and encouraging them every time.

Married to Usha Shetty in the year 1984 he is blessed with son Samarth Shetty & Daughter Sanyuktha Shetty who are all well settled and had celebrated his silver wedding anniversary in the year 2009 with hundreds of friends in a grand event.

Recently he is being elected as President of ‘Patla Foundation Trust UAE’.

He keeps attending Kannada / Tulu programmes regularly in India as well as abroad and most of the time he will be the Chief Guest therein. Programmes in Mangalore, Mulki, Bangalore, Hubli, Belgaum, Pune, Pimpri, Chinchwada, Nasik, Delhi, Mumbai, Sangli, Oman, Bahrain & Qatar he had attended various programmes where he delivered his speech on Tulu Kannada Culture.

Sarvotham Shetty is mainly inspired by two great personalities; first the world leader Nelson Mandela who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to dismantle the apartheid system and secondly the soft spoken proud son of Tulu Nadu, Padmashree Dr. B.R. Shetty the patron of Kannadigas in UAE.

Our best wishes for the man himself, Sarvotham Shetty and the event ‘Vishwa Tulu Ayono 2016’ for all success.

sarvotham 1

sarvotham 2

sarvotham 3

sarvotham 4

sarvotham 5

sarvotham 6

sarvotham 7

sarvotham 8

sarvotham 9

sarvotham 10

sarvotham 11

sarvotham 12

sarvotham 13

sarvotham 14

sarvotham 15

sarvotham 16

sarvotham 17

sarvotham 19

Comments

haris
 - 
Tuesday, 6 Dec 2016

Mr Sarvotham Shetty is one of the best friend in Abu Dhabi and a proud TULUVA,as well as well known kannadiga. Coastal digest is reported more about him which we dont know thanks to CD and CONGRATULATION to Mr Marne S Shetty.

Add new comment

  • Coastaldigest.com reserves the right to delete or block any comments.
  • Coastaldigset.com is not responsible for its readers’ comments.
  • Comments that are abusive, incendiary or irrelevant are strictly prohibited.
  • Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name to avoid reject.
News Network
January 14,2025

pravasibharatiya1.jpg

Dr Syed Anwar Khursheed, one of the longest-serving Indian physicians in Saudi Arabia, was honored with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award on Friday, the highest honor conferred by India's president on nationals based overseas. Dr. Khursheed, born in Gulbarga, Karnataka, has dedicated over 40 years of his life to the Kingdom. He served for three decades at King Faisal Hospital in Taif and nearly a decade as a Royal Protocol physician in Riyadh. His work extended to the COVID-19 response and overseeing critical care operations for Hajj pilgrims.

In addition to his medical career, Dr. Khursheed has made significant contributions to education, founding the International Indian School in Taif and providing guidance for other schools catering to the Indian community in Saudi Arabia.

The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, established in 2003, celebrates exceptional contributions of overseas Indians in various fields, including medicine, community service, and education. Dr. Khursheed was among 27 recipients of this year's award and the only one from Saudi Arabia. He received the honor from President Droupadi Murmu.

India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Suhel Ajaz Khan, highlighted Dr. Khursheed’s distinguished 45-year career in public healthcare and his role in the Medical Protocol Department of the Royal Saudi Family for eight years. He also oversaw critical care during the Hajj program at Minah and Arafat.

Khan emphasized that the award recognizes Dr. Khursheed’s outstanding contributions to medical science, healthcare, and the welfare of the Indian community in Saudi Arabia, marking a moment of great pride for the Indian diaspora in the Kingdom.

DC congratulates

Kalaburgi Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Fauziya Taranum B has congratulated Dr Syed Anwar Khursheed for the prestigious award.

“I appreciate your contribution towards education and healthcare. It’s a very proud moment for Kalaburgi district,” the DC said. 

pravasibharatiya3.jpg

pravasibharatiya2.jpg

 

Comments

Add new comment

  • Coastaldigest.com reserves the right to delete or block any comments.
  • Coastaldigset.com is not responsible for its readers’ comments.
  • Comments that are abusive, incendiary or irrelevant are strictly prohibited.
  • Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name to avoid reject.
Dr P A Hameed Padubidri
January 16,2025

saudirijuju6.jpg

The depth of tie between India and Saudi Arabia dates back to the time immemorial. Both nations share a robust and long-standing partnership built on mutual respect, shared interests, and cultural ties. This partnership has been further strengthened by bilateral engagements aimed at fostering cooperation in diverse areas like Hajj pilgrimage management, trade, business, education, human resources, technology, interfaith dialogue etc. 

Given the circumstances, the Indian Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs & Minority Affairs, Mr. Kiren Rijiju, embarked on a significant official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to attend the Hajj and Umrah Conference and sign the bilateral Hajj agreement for 2025. During this visit, the minister achieved various remarkable milestones that cherished a lasting reminiscence in the minds of the authorities, citizens & Indian diaspora. 

Hon. Minister, Kiren Rijiju, arrived in Riyadh King Khalid Intl. Airport on Jan 11, 2025 afternoon and was warmly welcomed by the Indian Ambassador, Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan and others with a floral boutique as a plaque of respect & dignity. He has been on 4-days official tour in the KSA that ended on Tuesday. The minister’s visit recapped and highlighted the deep-rooted friendship between India and Saudi Arabia. The visit commenced with a focus on enhancing Hajj arrangements and strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations. 

Engagement with the Indian Diaspora 

His overwhelmed zeal to engage with the Indian diaspora became evident as he attended the Indian Diaspora Interaction Program at once. The program was organized in the same evening by the Embassy of India at its auditorium in Riyadh. 

After receiving the grand felicitation from the Indian diaspora, he addressed the audience applauding their contribution to the growth & development of the Kingdom, and also emphasized the strong ties & strategic partnership between India and Saudi Arabia. 

He said-“Saudi Arabia is not merely a habitat to 2.6 million Indian diaspora, but also a key partner in augmenting global stability & prosperity”. 

“As a close ally of Saudi Arabia, it’s proud to say that India stood out as a center point of global power connected with almost every nation; unlike earlier, a sense of pride arose amongst the Indians as a positive paradigm is shown globally towards the Indians”, he added. 

The event featured cultural performances by community children and coincided with the celebrations of Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas and World Hindi Diwas. He praised the students stage performance & talents. He distributed prizes to the best achievers of various talent programs held in the international schools in Riyadh. 

Jeddah Visit & Participation at Hajj Conference & Exhibition 

Main Event: 

Mr. Rijiju participated in the opening ceremony of the fourth edition of Hajj Conference and Exhibition held on 13 Jan, 2025 in Jeddah. Prof. Abdulaziz Al-Wazzan, Deputy Minister for Umrah Affairs, along with other dignitaries received the minister and greeted with a warm reception upon his arrival in Jeddah 

Key Highlight: 

The exhibition focused on logistics, safety and enhancing the overall pilgrimage experience. The initiative was lauded for its comprehensive approach to enriching this sacred journey for millions of pilgrims worldwide. 

It’s a great privilege and honor that the Indian minister took part as one of the key stakeholders in the Conference-held under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman that took place in Jeddah from 13–16 January, 2025. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah hosted the event emphasizing collaboration to enhance pilgrim services, improve more transparency and introduce innovative solutions. 

The event gathered prominent participants from 87 countries including India, comprising government ministers, diplomats, academics, scholars and others fostering a global dialogue on enhancing Hajj and Umrah services. It reflected the Kingdom’s commitment to modernizing Hajj operations while preserving its spiritual significance. 

Signing the Bilateral Hajj Agreement 2025 

Main Event: 

Mr. Rijiju met with Dr. Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, Minister for Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia, to finalize and sign the Hajj Agreement for 2025. The event served as a remarkable platform to sign the bilateral Hajj agreements. Both leaders emphasized their commitments to improving the services and facilities provided to pilgrims, ensuring a smooth and fulfilling Hajj experience. 

Key Highlight: 

India’s Hajj quota for 2025 has been set at 175,025 pilgrims by Saudi Arabia, and the Indian Minister sought an additional allocation of 10,000 slots for this year’s pilgrimage. It’s likely to be a fabulous milestone in the bilateral dialogue held with the Saudi Arabian government. 

Meeting with Muslim World League Secretary-General 

Indian Minister, Kiren Rijiju engaged in meaningful discussions with H.E. Sheikh Dr. Mohammed Al-Issa, Secretary-General of the Muslim World League. The conversation highlighted Dr. Al-Issa’s impactful visit to India, during which he championed the cause of interfaith harmony and global peace. Dr. Al-Issa commended India’s vibrant cultural heritage and its steadfast commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity. Both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening ties between nations and promoting understanding and mutual respect among faiths, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to build a more peaceful and unified world. 

Visit to Jeddah Hajj Terminal 

Main Event: 

The visit to the Jeddah Hajj Terminal was conducted to assess the readiness and logistical arrangements for Hajj 2025. This included a review of facilities such as immigration processing, baggage handling systems, and transport coordination for Hajj pilgrims. 

Key Highlight: 

Minister Rijiju examined the logistical arrangements, emphasizing the importance of ensuring comfort and efficiency for the large number of Indian pilgrims expected to arrive in Saudi Arabia. The minister’s inspection also focused on ensuring smooth operations for the nearly 175,025 Indian pilgrims of this year’s Hajj. This visit is a part of broader efforts to streamline operations and address any challenges ahead of the pilgrimage season. 

A Visit to the Holy City of Madinah & meeting with the Governor of the Region 

Key Event: 

Mr. Rijiju traveled to Madinah Al-Munawwarah, one of the holiest places, to inspect the arrangements for Indian pilgrims for Hajj 2025. He also gave visits to Quba Masjid & Qiblatain Masjid in the city. 

Main Highlight: 

The Minister reiterated India’s dedication to ensuring a spiritually fulfilling and seamless pilgrimage experience & maximum comforts for all pilgrims. 

A high-level meeting was held by the minister with HRH. Saud bin Khalid Al Faisal, Deputy Governor of the Al Madinah Region. The discussions revolved around Hajj preparations and enhancing India-Saudi Arabia collaboration to provide a memorable and smooth experience for pilgrims. 

The Indian minister’s meeting with H.H. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, was another milestone achieved during his visit. Both ministers explored ways to strengthen cooperation in the transport sector, ensuring safe and efficient movement for pilgrims during Hajj. 

Strengthening Parliamentary and Cultural Ties 

Another significant event that’s evident during his trip was his meeting with H.H. Maj. Gen. Abdulrahman Snitan A. Al-Harbi, Member of the Shura Council and Chairman of the Saudi-India Parliamentary Friendship Committee. Bilateral dialogue was held between the two prominent leaders that focused on enhancing bilateral ties through student exchange programs, cultural exchanges, and tourism. Minister Rijiju extended an invitation to Saudi students to study in India and encouraged Saudis to explore India’s cultural diversity. 

Visit to Diriyah – A UNESCO World Heritage Site 

The Union Minister Kiren Rijiju visited Diriyah-a historical place & UNESCO World Heritage Site-in Riyadh. Diriyah holds immense cultural importance as the birthplace of the Saudi state and the original home of the royal Al Saud family. The At-Turaif District within Diriyah, once the center of power for the Al Saud dynasty, showcases traditional Najdi architecture and is a key attraction. Mr. Rijiju expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality extended by the Saudi hosts and appreciated the opportunity to witness this remarkable testament to the Kingdom’s heritage. 

In conclusion, the Indian Minister for Parliamentary & Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju’s visit to Saudi Arabia marked a significant step toward deepening the multifaceted relationship between the two nations. From finalizing the Hajj Agreement to exploring avenues for cultural, educational, and economic collaboration, the visit showcased the shared commitment of India and Saudi Arabia to fostering peace, mutual understanding, and progress. 

This visit will undoubtedly pave the way for stronger bilateral ties and a brighter future for both nations. If i say in the minister’s expression, this will certainly strengthen the people-to-people bond between our two great countries. 

This is a special report by Dr P A Hameed Padubidri, a lawyer, freelance writer, social worker, legal advisor based in Riyadh. He may be reached at pahpadubidri@gmail.com 

saudirijuju1.jpg

saudirijuju10.jpg

saudirijuju2.jpg

saudirijuju3.jpg

saudirijuju4.jpg

saudirijuju5.jpg

saudirijuju7.jpg

saudirijuju8.jpg

saudirijuju9.jpg

Comments

Add new comment

  • Coastaldigest.com reserves the right to delete or block any comments.
  • Coastaldigset.com is not responsible for its readers’ comments.
  • Comments that are abusive, incendiary or irrelevant are strictly prohibited.
  • Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name to avoid reject.