Dubai: The world’s largest Kannada literacy movement outside India, Kannada Pata Shaale Dubai (KPSD), celebrated its 11th annual valedictory function with a grand event titled ‘Kannada Mitraru 2025’ at the Ice Rink Auditorium, Al Nasr Leisureland, Dubai. Organised by the voluntary group Kannada Mitraru UAE, the initiative continues its mission to make Kannada literacy the birthright of every child in the diaspora.

Founded in 2014 by Mr. Shashidhar Nagarajappa and supported by core members Mr. Siddalingesh, Mr. Sunil Gavaskar, Mr. Shashidhar Mundaragi, Mr. Nagaraj Rao, and teaching head Mrs. Roopa H.G., KPSD began with just 40 students. In 2025, it has reached a record enrolment of 1,250 students, making it the world’s largest Kannada literacy programme outside India.

A celebration of language and community

The annual examinations held in March 2025 were followed by a certificate and grade distribution ceremony, recognising the achievements of all participating students.

The valedictory event was attended by a distinguished line-up of guests, including:

  • Dr. Moideen Thumbay, Chairman of Thumbay Group

  • Mr. Praveen Shetty, President of KNRI Forum and Chairman of Fortune Group

  • Mr. Neelesh H.P., Founder of PARVA Group (event sponsor)

  • Mr. Basavaraj Deshmukh, Secretary, Sharanabasaveshwara Vidyavardhaka Samsthe, Kalaburgi

  • Actress Ms. Roopika Appu, and other community leaders including Mr. Satish Poojary and Mr. Sarvothama Shetty

    • KPSD’s noble tradition of giving back to Karnataka continued this year with the donation of a smart classroom to the Government Higher Primary School in Kodunge, Bantwal Taluk.

    Honouring champions of Kannada

    A key highlight of the event was the presentation of the prestigious ‘Kannada Mitra’ award to Mrs. Geetha Judith Saldana, a Kannada-medium school teacher in Karnataka. Her work in rehabilitating nomadic children—providing food, hygiene, and access to education—was widely lauded. Thanks to her efforts, 60 previously unschooled children can now read and write Kannada.

    In recognition of dedicated service, Mrs. Kavya Yuvaraj was honoured as “Teacher of the Decade”, having taught Kannada at KPSD for over 10 years without any financial compensation. The ‘Shikshana Koustubha’ award was given to teachers with over four years of service: Mrs. Triveni Prahlad, Mrs. Nayana Dharwad, and Mrs. Roopa Vorate.

    Cultural performances and large public turnout

    The grand finale featured colourful cultural performances by KPSD students, reflecting their deep-rooted pride in Kannada heritage. A massive crowd of over 2,000 attendees filled the venue, with 1,700 free lunches served to students, parents, and guests.

    The event was compered by Mrs. Kavya Yuvaraj along with students Master Dheeraj Mahadev and Ms. Krisha Gavaskar, adding a youthful energy to the proceedings.

    With continued support from the Indian diaspora and dedicated volunteers, KPSD remains a beacon of hope for preserving and promoting the Kannada language abroad.