-Anand Kumar and Vishwas, Barkur
The Barakuru Brahmin Mahasabha Seva Trust (Registered) recently held its Annual General Meeting, combined with a scholarship distribution, talent awards, and felicitation program for achievers. The event took place at the revered Tuluveshwara Sri Gopalakrishna Temple in Barakuru, drawing significant attention from the local Brahmin community.
Distinguished guests graced the occasion, including Mr. Shantaraj Aithal, President of Udupi Su Ha Sam and noted writer; Mrs. Savita Madhav Shastri, acclaimed author; Mr. Sandeep Kumar Manjaru, President of the Udupi District Brahmin Mahasabha; and Mr. K. Ashok Bhat, President of the Brahmavar Taluk Brahmin Mahasabha.
The event highlighted the trust's commitment to nurturing talent and supporting education within the community. Thirteen students who had demonstrated exceptional prowess in academics and sports were honored with the prestigious Pratibha Puraskar (Talent Award). Furthermore, the trust distributed scholarships totaling ₹98,000 to 28 deserving students, reinforcing its dedication to fostering educational growth.
The ceremony also recognized outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields. Among those felicitated were Mr. Kooradi Rama Bayari, Mr. Maskibailu Raghavendra Rao, Mr. Ujirebailu Mohan Bhat, and the couple Mr. and Mrs. Mahableshwar Bhat and Sushilamma, acknowledging their exemplary achievements and service to society.
Mr. N. Manjunath Bhat, the Trust's President, chaired the event, while Secretary Prakash Tantri introduced and welcomed the guests. Treasurer Mr. Sudarshan Uduparu presented the financial report, offering transparency into the trust's operations.
The event featured several key moments, including the introduction of honorees by Mr. Ganesh Rao, Mr. Srinivasa Somayaji, Mr. Prashant Adiga, and Mrs. Savitri Madhyastha. Mr. Abhay Kedlaaya read out the details of the student beneficiaries, highlighting the impact of the trust's educational initiatives.
Adding a touch of creativity to the proceedings, a flower arrangement competition was held prior to the main event. Winners of this competition received prizes sponsored by Mrs. Jyoti and Dr. Venkat Raj, celebrating the artistic talents within the community.
The event saw active participation from the trust's executive committee members, including Mr. Subrahmania Kedilaaya, Dr. Anupama Niranjan, Mr. Sitaram Shastri, and Mrs. Prabhavati Kedilaaya, among others. Joint Secretary Mr. Suresh Bayari delivered the vote of thanks, while Mr. Tapan and Mr. Anshumaan Rao skillfully compered the program.
The gathering was particularly noteworthy for its impressive attendance, with over 225 members of the Brahmin community from the region participating. The District and Taluk presidents expressed their appreciation for the well-organized event, which concluded successfully with a refreshment session sponsored by Mrs. Pushpa Rao.
This annual meeting not only served as a platform for community gathering but also reinforced the Barakuru Brahmin Mahasabha Seva Trust's role in promoting education, recognizing talent, and honoring achievers within the community. The event's success underscores the trust's commitment to fostering unity and progress among its members.