AKKA actively involved in social activities in State: Former MP

Former member of parliament A H Vishwanath, on Wednesday, said cultural activities always helped in creating a peaceful atmosphere in the society.

Addressing the gathering at a programme, organised by Kannada activists to honour the office-bearers of America Kannada Kootas Association (AKKA), Vishwanath said it’s highly appreciable that Kannadigas settled abroad were promoting the essence of Kannada through art and cultural activities.

Advocates and doctors educated in India are in much demand in foreign countries and are also offered lucrative pay. Despite busy schedule, such non-resident Indians from the State have been actively involved in promoting Kannada, he said.

Writer Kalegowda Nagawara said everybody nurses love for their mother tongue and native place, it is the same feeling for Kannada, that has led to the birth of AKKA.

Former president of AKKA Amarnath said, it’s not easy to carry out Kannada activities abroad.

“What began as a small organisation, AKKA, has now grown in leaps and bounds and has made a name across the globe. Apart from cultural activities, due importance is given to social activities. When flood ravaged most parts of north Karnataka, Rs 35 lakh financial aid was extended to the needy, while several schools in the State were donated equipment. Most of the artistes, hailing from the State are also given due opportunity to perform abroad,” he said.

AKKA president Raj Patil, vice-president Sharat Bhandari and joint secretary Yamuna Nagaraj were felicitated. Gowregowda, a farmer from Chikka Koppal in K R Nagar taluk, Mysuru district, Chiran from Karunamayi School for Specially abled and principal of Raviverma School of Arts H Krishnamurthy were also felicitated.