Manshar unveils its multi-faceted programme in Dubai

Jeddah: The Karnataka NRI Forum Jeddah, a prominent organization dedicated to the welfare and enrichment of the Non-Resident Indian (NRI) community from Karnataka residing in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, has re-elected Sabu Chandran (Bengaluru) as President and Shaikh Saoud Yermal (Udupi) as General Secretary during its 16th Annual General Body Meeting on February 6, 2025.

Welcoming the Gathering:

Raza Ali Khan, Country Manager – Air India and Executive Committee Member of the forum, warmly welcomed all guests, invitees, and attendees. In his Presidential Address, outgoing President Sabu Chandran expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering support received throughout his tenure. He assured continued dedication to the forum, striving to elevate it to greater heights.

Annual Report & Achievements:

Executive General Secretary Shaikh Saoud Yermal, a well-respected community leader, presented a comprehensive annual report, highlighting the forum's key achievements over the past year. The report featured major initiatives, including the KNT Season 4 Cricket Tournament and various social welfare projects that have significantly benefited the Kannadiga community in Jeddah and back home in Karnataka.

He also presented the Certificate of Acceptance from the Karnataka State Society Registrar’s office, confirming the successful submission of audited financial reports for the term 2023-2024. This underscored the forum’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible financial management. He extended special thanks to Mohammed Imran (Bengaluru), outgoing Treasurer, and Mohammed Ismail (Bengaluru), outgoing Joint Treasurer, for their efforts in maintaining financial records. He also acknowledged Shakeel Ahmed (Bengaluru) for his unwavering support and internal auditors Nazir Ahmed (Udupi) and Rahim Rafeeq Ahmed (Bengaluru) for their diligence in verifying financial statements.

Formation of the New Executive Committee (2025-2026):

Under the supervision of election officers Dr. Ashfaq Maniyar (Bijapura) and Mohammed Mansoor (Mangaluru), a new executive committee was formed for the term 2025-2026. The officers encouraged all newly elected members to serve with dedication for the benefit of the Kannadiga community.

The new executive committee comprises a dynamic group of individuals committed to serving the NRI community:

President: Sabu Chandran (Bengaluru)

General Secretary: Shaikh Saoud Yermal (Udupi)

Vice Presidents:

Mohammed Arifullah Sharief (Shivamogga) – known for his ability to unite people

Dr. Ashfaq Maniyar (Bijapura) – an esteemed doctor with extensive experience in community service

Treasurer: Mohammed Ismail (Bengaluru)

Joint Treasurer: Salim Huballi (Belagavi)

Additional Office Bearers:

Joint Secretary: Sajid Iqbal (Bengaluru)

Cultural Secretary: Mohammed Mansoor (Mangaluru)

Chief Coordinator: Waseem Ahmed Maqbool (Tumakuru)

Joint Cultural Coordinators: Rajesh Kumar (Mangaluru), Mohammed Arshad Hussain (Mangaluru)

Sports Coordinator: Mohammed Fayaz (Malpe, Udupi)

Asst. Sports Coordinators: Habib Rahman (Udupi), Mohammed Irshad Sandi (Belagavi)

Press Coordinators: Peter Ronald Mascarenhas (Udupi), Qamruzaman Sada (Uttar Kannada)

Internal Auditor: Raza Ali Khan (Bengaluru)

Asst. Chief Coordinator: Shakeel Ahmed (Raichur)

Executive Committee Members:

Mukarram Khan (Bengaluru), Faize Abdul Razak Shaikh (Mangaluru), Denis Noronha (Udupi), Rahim Rafeeq Ahmed (Bengaluru), Jerry Gomes (Uttar Kannada), Suhail Malik (Raichur), Mohammed Saifuddin Sami (Mysore), Jalal Baig (Hassan), Mohammed Imran (Bengaluru), Athar Mustafa (Davangere), Mohammed Shakeel (Gulbarga), Khusro Ali (Gulbarga), Syed Talib Hussain (Koppal), Fazal Mohammed (Mysuru), Imtiaz Ahmed Attar (Belagavi), Vivian Rodrigues (Mangaluru), Mohammed Asif Momin (Uttar Kannada), Frank Dantis (Mangaluru), Mohammed Rafiullah Khan (Mysuru).

Event HighlightsThe meeting was expertly hosted by Peter Ronald Mascarenhas (Udupi), whose eloquence and stage presence ensured a smooth and engaging event. A series of fun games added excitement, keeping the audience entertained and energized.

The registration counter was efficiently managed by Mohammed Irshad Sandi (Belagavi) and Salim Huballi (Belagavi).

Culinary Experience & ConclusionAttendees enjoyed a lavish dinner buffet at The Village Restaurant, Aziziya, Jeddah, meticulously arranged under the supervision of Jalal Baig (Hassan).

The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Sajid Iqbal (Ramanagara), who expressed gratitude to all participants, volunteers, and sponsors for their contributions to the event's success.

About Karnataka NRI Forum Jeddah

Founded in April 2007, the Karnataka NRI Forum Jeddah is a respected community organization serving the interests of Karnataka NRIs in Saudi Arabia. The forum fosters unity, cultural exchange, and support networks while maintaining a strong connection with Karnataka.

As the forum embarks on another promising year, the new executive committee looks forward to strengthening the bonds among Kannadigas, expanding community initiatives, and enhancing cultural engagement.

Join Forum!

Become a part of Karnataka NRI Forum Jeddah by registering at www.knriforumjeddah.org or emailing us at info@knriforumjeddah.org.

The Maduman Group, a prominent family group from Padubidri, successfully organized a blood donation drive at Al Mana Hospital in Jubail, Saudi Arabia. This noble initiative showcased the group’s deep commitment to social service and humanitarian causes, reinforcing the values of unity and compassion that define them.

With over a hundred family members, the Maduman Group has always been at the forefront of community-driven efforts. The drive saw enthusiastic participation from Indian expatriates and well-wishers in Saudi Arabia, contributing to local blood banks and supporting patients in critical need.

Mr. Naufal Mulki, the event organizer and representative of the Maduman Group, emphasized the importance of giving back to society, regardless of borders. “As a family, we believe in standing together for meaningful causes. Blood donation is one of the greatest gifts we can offer, and we are proud to extend our support,” he stated.

Conducted in collaboration with Al Mana Hospital, the event adhered to strict health and safety protocols. The hospital’s medical team commended the initiative, recognizing the essential role of voluntary blood donors in saving lives.

The success of this campaign has further strengthened the Maduman Group’s dedication to philanthropy. Encouraged by this achievement, they plan to organize similar initiatives both in India and abroad. Family members back home in Padubidri expressed immense pride in their relatives’ efforts in Saudi Arabia, highlighting how such contributions bring honor and recognition to their roots.

Sahebaan UAE, an organization representing the Urdu-speaking Muslim community from the twin districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi, hosted a spectacular family gathering at the Amity School grounds in Al Qusais, Dubai, on Saturday, February 15, 2025. The event brought together over a thousand members of the Sahebaan community from across the UAE, neighboring GCC countries, and India for an evening of celebration, recognition, and togetherness.

The event commenced with a recitation of verses from the Holy Quran by Master Mohammad Faiz and Fazil Rahil Ali. Althaf M.S. welcomed the gathering, emphasizing that Sahebaan UAE serves as a platform for community members to connect, foster unity, and celebrate their shared identity.

Honoring Community Patrons

The esteemed patrons of the Sahebaan Community—Janab Hidayathullah Abbas, K.S. Nissar Ahmed, and Afroz Assadi—were honored for their remarkable humanitarian efforts, charitable contributions, and unwavering support for Sahebaan UAE. The felicitation ceremony was led by Janab Suhail Kudroli, Altaf Khalife, and Samiullah M.H.

Sahebaan Excellence Awards

A key highlight of the event was the presentation of the prestigious ‘Sahebaan Excellence Awards’ to individuals who have excelled in various fields. The awards were conferred by the community patrons.

Business Excellence Award: Mohammad Akram, Founder and Chairman of Abu Dhabi-based Al Sitara Contracting, was recognized for his contributions to the business sector.

Sports Excellence Award: International Superbike racing champion and DSBK Superbike Racing Company owner, Nasir Syed of Karkala, was honored for his achievements in motorsports.

Academic Excellence Award (Posthumous): The late Professor Muzaffar Hussain Assadi, a distinguished scholar and thinker, was posthumously awarded. His brother, Sajjad Assadi, accepted the honor on his behalf.

Literary Excellence Award: Writer and poet Irshad Moodbidri was recognized for his contributions to literature. His son, Nihad, accepted the award.

Community Service Excellence Award: Abu Dhabi-based businessmen Mohammad Asif and Sahar Mohammad Asif were acknowledged for their dedication to social causes. Their son, Abdul Ahad, accepted the award.

Distinguished Guests

The function was graced by prominent community members, including Janab Mohammed Muslim Koppa, Director of Vartha Bharathi, along with overseas Sahebaan representatives Janab Safiuddin Mohammed, Mumtaz Hussain, Niyamathulla Asadi, and Mohammed Hussain.

Recognizing Academic Achievements

Students who excelled academically were felicitated with the ‘Sahebaan Merit Award.’ Those who achieved above 90% in their examinations were celebrated, including:

SSLC Achievers from UAE: Faiz Anam, Mohammad Rayaan, and Mohammad Umair Suvaid Khan.

Pre-University Excellence: Muskan Fatima, recognized as the Gulf topper in the commerce stream, alongside high scorers Juveria Firoz, Siham Akbar Ali, Mohammad Rafaan, and Hiba Altaf Salah.

Celebrating Young Sporting Talent

Young achievers in sports were also honored, including Mohammad Aiman, who excelled in the 4x4 100-meter relay, and Mohammad Aiz, associated with the DOFA Football Association.

A Night of Culture and Celebration

Beyond awards and recognition, the evening was filled with cultural performances and activities, particularly for children. The ‘Prince and Princess’ dress-up competition for kids under ten was a major attraction. The event also featured:

Indian Patriotic Dance

Traditional Arabic Dance

Beautiful Dua Recitation by Children

A short documentary about Sahebaan was screened on a large LED display, offering insights into the community’s history, values, and achievements.

Event Hosts and Coordinators

The event was skillfully hosted by Hisrar Tallani, who flew in from Mangalore for the occasion, engaging the audience with his humor and interactive activities.

Children’s programs were coordinated by:

Prince and Princess Competition: Reeha Althaf

Indian Patriotic Dance: Heena Kausar

Arabic Dance: Fauzia Rahil

Dua Segment: Fauzia Shah

Ajmal Mohammed delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all contributors.

Acknowledgment of Organizing Committee

The event’s success was attributed to the tireless efforts of the organizing committee members:

Core Team: Afroze Assadi, Althaf M.S., Ajmal Mohammad, Altaf Khalife, Samiullah M.H., Suhail Kudroli, Asif Mohammad Hussain, Sameer Sharif, Nayeem Khan, Abdul Ahed, and Faizan Khateeb.

Women Organizers: Parveen Assadi, Sahara Asif, and Reena Althaf.

The Sahebaan UAE Family Get-Together was a remarkable celebration of unity, talent, and tradition, leaving attendees with cherished memories and a strengthened sense of community spirit.