Karnataka Sangha Qatar (KSQ) celebrated a historic milestone with the Karnataka Rajyotsava – Silver Jubilee Grand Finale on 7th November at the Ideal Indian School Grounds. The event marked the culmination of a year-long celebration featuring 25 vibrant programs dedicated to art, sports, culture, and social responsibility.

The venue was transformed into a cultural spectacle, reflecting Karnataka’s rich heritage. Guests were greeted by two life-sized elephants with ornate Ambaris, while a majestic Hoysala Mahadwara recreated the grandeur of a bygone era. A gallery honoring eight Jnanapeeta awardees and tributes to literary stalwarts Padmashree Dr. S. L. Bhairappa and Dr. H. S. Venkatesh Murthy showcased Karnataka’s illustrious literary legacy.

The evening commenced with a traditional Poorna Kumbha welcome for Guests of Honor Mr. U. T. Khader, Honorable Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, and renowned quiz master Dr. Na Someshwar. The ceremonial lamp was lit to the soulful rendition of “Hacchevu Kannadada Deepa” by KSQ members under Anil Bhasagi’s direction. Vice President Ramesha KS introduced hosts Anusha Lakkanna and Sujith Kumar. Graceful Bharatanatyam performances and a vibrant dance sequence themed “Namma Kannada Namma Hemme” by KSQ children set the cultural tone for the evening.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of the Qatar Kannada Samman to Dr. Na Someshwar for his outstanding contribution to literature and knowledge dissemination. In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude to teachers and emphasized his mission to educate through his popular quiz program “Thattantha Heli.”

The cultural extravaganza continued with performances depicting the valor of Mysore kings, culminating in a high-energy finale by KSQ’s Yakka Maar Team, choreographed by Cultural Secretary Ms. Soumya K. T. and coordinated by Ms. Bhuvana Suraj & Ms. Bhavana Naveen. All participants were felicitated with appreciation mementos.

General Secretary Mr. Kumar Swamy presented a video montage of 24 activities conducted during the Silver Jubilee year, acknowledging the leadership and volunteers. President Mr. Ravi Shetty, quoting poet Dr. G. S. Shivarudrappa, highlighted the importance of serving associations to give back to society.

The special edition of KSQ’s annual magazine “Srigandha” was released by Mr. U. T. Khader, who praised KSQ’s efforts in promoting Kannada culture globally and encouraged parents to nurture their children’s aspirations. Silver Carnival sponsors, magazine chief editor Kishore, and renowned artist Harish Kodialbail — the creative force behind the Hoysala Mahadwara and elephant installations — received special recognition. Ms. Soumya K. T. proposed the vote of thanks.

H.E. Mr. Vipul, Ambassador of India to Qatar, graced the occasion and commended KSQ for strengthening cultural ties and contributing to Apex body initiatives. He was honored with a memento of gratitude.

The grand finale concluded with a mesmerizing musical concert by celebrated playback singer Vijay Prakash, supported by Ananya Prakash, Nishan Rai, and a team of accomplished musicians. Special artist Hema V Patil showcased her lightning-speed art. Mr. & Mrs. Vijay Prakash were felicitated, and the renowned singer was conferred the title “Sangeetha Sourabha.” All artists were honored for their stellar performances.

The event witnessed the presence of eminent personalities, including Indian Embassy officials, leaders from neighboring Kannada Sanghas, KSQ advisors with Advisory Chairman Mr. Mahesh Gowda, and leaders of Apex bodies ICC, ICBF, ISC, alongside Karnataka association representatives. The celebrations concluded with heartfelt tributes to dedicated volunteers, marking a fitting end to KSQ’s Silver Jubilee year.