JOIN USAppa Avva Namma Daiva’, a cultural evening to pay respect to parents, was organised by Shamitha Malnad’s Swara Sannidhi Trust, at Ravindra Kalakshetra recently.
The different performances at the event included dances and musical concerts all related to the concept of parenthood.
Several songs sung by renowned playback singer late P B Srinivas for parents became the highlight of the music concert. The dance performances, included ones by physically challenged students, a bharatanatyam recital by Yamuna Srinidhi and several performances by ‘Sizzlers’ dance troupe. Another important part of the event was the on-the-spot painting by Bagur Markandeya.
Parents of Kannada film actors Upendra and Darshan, were honoured on this occasion by Shamitha Malnad. Upendra’s parents Anusooya and Manjunath Rao and Darshan’s mother Meena Toogudeepa expressed their happiness on being part of the event. “Such an event where importance to parents is given is rare in today’s times. Shamitha has definitely set a new trend with such an event. Event’s like this will remind children about their parents and their contributions to their lives,” remarked Meena, after being felicitated at the event.
True to the spirit of the event, a large percentage of the audience comprised of senior citizens, who were accompanied by their families. The star attractions of the event were Kannada film stars Prem and Srinagara Kitty, who too recollected stories about their parents’ contributions to their successes A R Aruswamy, an audience member, said, “Our children are abroad. Thankfully, they are very caring and loving, despite the distance, and try to help us with everything, from taking decisions to getting assistance arranged, when required.”