Coastal Karnataka's vibrant heritage will take center stage in Dubai this October when the 'Aatidonji Dinata Utsava 2026 – Season 5' unfolds. Karnataka Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Shri U.T. Khader, is slated to inaugurate the day-long festival on Sunday, October 4, at the Millennium Airport Hotel. This fifth annual edition, a collaboration between Sandhya Creations Event Network Team (SCENT) and R D R K Events, aims to unite diverse religious and cultural communities from Karnataka, fostering a shared appreciation for Tulunadu's rich traditions through its cuisine, arts, and spirit of togetherness.
Organizers have secured necessary permissions from the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), with all logistical preparations nearing completion. The event will feature approximately 20 stalls, including around 13 dedicated to various community groups. Additionally, attendees can access free medical check-ups, Ayurveda consultations, eye screenings, and various product exhibitions. Philanthropist Dr. Ronald Colaco, an NRI Distinguished Fellow of The Institute of Directors (India Global), has extended his blessings as the principal sponsor, conveying best wishes despite a prior commitment preventing his attendance.
Ahead of the main event, a final preparatory gathering, titled 'Dinner with Community Leaders,' took place on September 17 at 7 p.m. at the Olive Tree Restaurant, Avree Hotel, Deira, Dubai. Community leaders and representatives from participating organizations convened to finalize arrangements for their respective stalls. Shodhan Prasad of SCENT welcomed the attendees, acknowledging their consistent active participation over the past four years and noting the palpable enthusiasm for this upcoming fifth season.
The festival will also host a distinguished lineup of spiritual and civic leaders. Chief guests include Sri Sri Swasthisri Charukeerthi Bhattaraka Pandithacharayavariya Swamiji from Jain Math, Moodbidri; Janab Anees Kousary, Dharmaguru and General Secretary, SKSSF, Karnataka; and Fr. Victor Fernandes, Parish Priest of St. Mary's Church and Spiritual Director, Dubai, UAE. Padma Shri Dr. B.R. Shetty, a prominent industrialist and philanthropist, will also join as a Chief Guest. Further gracing the occasion are Shri Thonse Jayakrishna A. Shetty, founder of Parisara Premi Samiti NGO, as a Guest of Honour, and renowned multi-faceted personality Shri Mahabalamurthy Kodlekere as a Special Guest of Honour. MC Hithesh and MC Sushana will host the proceedings.
Image: mangalorean.com
đź“° Source: Mangalorean Gulf