Mangaluru: Spreading the spirit of sharing and compassion ahead of Krishna Janmashtami, Kadri Cricketers Club (Regd) and Asare Friends Kadri organised their 13th annual free rice distribution programme at the Government School auditorium in Kadri.
The initiative was held to support families in the locality and enable them to celebrate the festival with food and dignity. More than 650 eligible families from Kadri benefited from the programme.
Programme inaugurated with ceremonial lamp
The programme was inaugurated by Kadri Mosaru Kudike Utsava Committee president Kiran Jogi, along with other dignitaries, by lighting the ceremonial lamp.
The annual rice distribution initiative has become a regular community service activity of Kadri Cricketers Club and Asare Friends Kadri. By continuing the programme for the 13th year, the organisations have sought to ensure that families in need can share in the festive celebrations.
The distribution was organised ahead of Janmashtami, when households traditionally make preparations for religious observances and family celebrations.
Over 650 families receive free rice
As part of the programme, more than 650 eligible families from the Kadri locality were provided rice free of cost.
The initiative was aimed at extending support to families who may otherwise face difficulties in meeting their household requirements during the festival season. The organisers said the programme was intended to spread the happiness associated with Janmashtami and ensure that families could celebrate the occasion with greater dignity.
The distribution also reflected the importance of community participation during festivals, with local organisations coming together to support residents and share resources with those in need.
Vedavyas Kamath praises community service
Mangaluru South MLA D Vedavyas Kamath appreciated Kadri Cricketers Club and Asare Friends Kadri for continuing the rice distribution programme year after year.
Speaking on the occasion, Kamath said the initiative reflected the spirit of sharing and helped ensure that every family had an opportunity to celebrate the festival happily with food at home.
He said he was pleased to be part of the meaningful community initiative and praised the organisations for their continued service to the locality.
Kamath also extended his blessings and wished the organisers and their families good health, happiness and prosperity.
Two achievers felicitated
The programme also featured the felicitation of two individuals for their achievements in their respective fields.
Retired professor Uday Master and ‘Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li’l Champs’ winner Ashmith were honoured by MLA Vedavyas Kamath on behalf of Kadri Cricketers Club and Asare Friends Kadri.
The recognition added another dimension to the event, bringing together community service and appreciation for individuals who have made notable contributions or achieved distinction.
The felicitation also provided an opportunity for the organisers and guests to acknowledge the accomplishments of the two achievers before the gathering.
Dignitaries attend the programme
The programme was attended by several prominent members of the local community and representatives of different organisations.
Among those present were Kadri Sri Manjunatheshwara Temple trustee Dilraj Alva, Brindavan Hotel owner Shivananda Rao, Amrith Kadri, J Sathyendra Bhat, Lion Kishore D Shetty, Ashok D K, Lion Prashanth Shetty, Sudheer Kadri, Mohan Koppal, George and Gokul Kadri.
Kadri Cricketers Club president Gaurav Kadri, Asare Friends Kadri president Dinesh Kadri and honorary president Deepak Salyan were also present along with club members and other dignitaries.
Their participation highlighted the broad community support for the annual initiative.
Continuing a tradition of giving
The 13th edition of the rice distribution programme once again underlined the role of community organisations in extending support during important festivals.
For the beneficiaries, the rice distribution provides practical assistance at a time when families are making preparations for Janmashtami. For the organisers, the programme represents an opportunity to put the values of compassion, sharing and community service into practice.
Such initiatives can also strengthen community bonds by bringing residents, social organisations and public representatives together for a common cause.
As Mangaluru prepares to celebrate Krishna Janmashtami, the annual programme by Kadri Cricketers Club and Asare Friends Kadri has added a meaningful social dimension to the festivities.
By providing free rice to more than 650 families and recognising local achievers, the organisers have continued their tradition of combining celebration with service and ensuring that the happiness of the festival reaches a wider section of the community.