Atlanta, GA: Nrupathunga Kannada Koota celebrated Yugaadi early on this year on March 23 at the Hindu Temple of Atlanta. Over 400 Kannada speaking folks gathered to celebrate Sankrathi/Yugaadi with various programs from and for all age groups.
Entertainment came in bounty starting with warm welcome and devotional songs by the kids. American National anthem was followed by Fancy dress with kids in various costumes. Very well-choreographed, and supported by elaborate props including a Shiva Linga that looked good enough to be worshipped enhanced the dance performances by kids and teens. It appeared that the program directors went the extra mile to in fact produce quality programs. A humorous play “Pukkate Salahe” (Free advice) by popular writer Dundiraaj based on a TV show that answers callers’ questions based on astrology was very well received by the audience. Local kids and parents presented a range of cultural items such as classical and contemporary group dances, song performances, skits, plays, Bharatnatyam
The festivities also included the Annual Scholarship of $4000 from the Shanakri and late Narasimhiya Mutteri scholarship fund, established by Drs. Annapurna & Subrahmnya Bhat. Ashitha Rajeurs, Vijeth Mudalegundi were proud recipients of the award this year. NKK has been awarding qualified and competent graduating seniors since 2007.
The Executive committee for 2013 was announced with Pushpalatha Madappa as President, and Aruna Gadekar, Ramachandra Rao, Veena Madwesh, Suma Muddukumar as members of the committee.
Nrupatunga Kannada Koota also runs three Kannada classes in different parts of metro Atlanta and maintains a library of Kannada books. It is involved in community activities such as “adopt a road” program in Alpharetta, Georgia. More information about NKK can be obtained at www.atlantakannada.org.
A very vibrant set of programs brimming with energy and color concluded with the Indian National anthem. As always, the audience was treated to scrumptious dinner.
