Mangaluru, May 15: The Bearys Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), founded in 2016 through the collective efforts of Beary philanthropists, entrepreneurs and social workers, celebrated its decennial anniversary at Morgans Gate in Mangaluru on Friday, May 15, reaffirming its commitment to community development, entrepreneurship and social service.

Primary and Secondary Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa, who attended the event as chief guest, praised the Beary community for its business acumen, philanthropic activities and selfless contribution to society.

Recalling the community’s political support to his late father and former Chief Minister S. Bangarappa in Dakshina Kannada, the minister said the Beary community had played a crucial role in strengthening his father’s political base in the region.

He noted that during S. Bangarappa’s tenure as Chief Minister in 1991–92, a dental college was sanctioned for the community. Around the same period, the Yenepoya Institution also received government approval and has since grown into one of the region’s most reputed educational institutions.

Praising the contributions of noted social worker Harekala Hajabba, Madhu Bangarappa said the government would readily consider and approve any proposals related to schools submitted by him.

The programme was inaugurated by Y. Abdulla Kunhi, Vice Chancellor of Yenepoya Deemed to be University.

Among the chief guests were Thumbe Group Chairman Thumbe Moideen, Vedavyas Kamath, Ivan D’Souza and Harekala Hajabba.

The event was presided over by BCCI President S.M. Rasheed Haji.

On the occasion, Y. Abdulla Kunhi was honoured with the “Beary Legend Award.”

The “Banya” brochure and souvenir were also released. The formal programme was followed by cultural events.

BCCI General Secretary Muhammed Imthiyaz delivered the introductory address, while Treasurer Mansoor Ahmed proposed the vote of thanks. Shahil Zahir compered the programme.

Dignitaries present on the occasion included former MLA Moideen Bava, NRI entrepreneur Hidayath Addoor, Dr. Muhammed Ismail, Dr. U.T. Iftikhar Ali, Abdulla Sattar, S.M. Arshad Mohtisham, Abdulla Monu, Nisar Muhammed Fakir, Riyaz A.K. Bava, Shoukath Shauri, Abdul Nasir Lukkystar, Muhammed Haris, Abdul Raouf Sultan Gold, Badruddin Panambur, G. Abdul Razak and Asif Sufi Khan.