Karnataka Sangha Qatar (KSQ) marked its silver jubilee celebrations with ‘Belli Habba–Vasanthothsava’, themed ‘Idu Namma Karunada Jathre’, uniting thousands of Kannadigas in a celebration of Karnataka’s culture, heritage, and cuisine.
Held at the new Ideal Indian School grounds, the venue echoed a traditional village fair. The entrance, Salumarada Thimmakka Mahadhwara, set the festive tone. Cultural displays like Tamate, Yakshagana headgear, a village home, traditional shops, silver buntings, and Karnataka flags created an immersive experience.
The programme commenced with a lamp-lighting ceremony. Vice-president Ramesh K S opened with safety guidelines and president Ravi Shetty welcomed the gathering. Indian embassy deputy chief of mission Sandeep Kumar was the chief guest and Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) president A P Manikantan the guest of honour.
ICC advisory chairman Baburajan and past managing committee members were also honoured. Tokens of appreciation were given to Binu Kumar, Ajay, Prabhuraj, Megha Karthik, the ATS team and guest artists.
General secretary Kumarswamy and guest master of ceremonies Prathibha Gowda conducted the event. Managing committee member Bheemappa Khot delivered a vote of thanks.
The cultural highlights were songs by Kambada Rangaiah, Ananya Prakash, and Kalavathi Dayanand, mimicry by Gopi, ‘Eellammana Aata’ performance by KSQ members (direction by Anil Bhasagi and concept, narration, choreography by Soumya K T), dance performances by Bunts Qatar, Billawas Qatar, Team 974 (Incas), Spotlight Stars, and Emote Edition, and Yakshagana: “Shoorpanaki Manabhanga” by Bahrain Kannada Sangha, with direction by Deepak Rao Pejawara.
