The Gulf Karnatakotsava, an event dedicated to recognizing the remarkable achievements of business leaders of Karnataka origin in the Gulf region, concluded with grandeur on September 10, 2023. This event was a significant milestone as it honored 21 outstanding business leaders with the title of 'Gulf Karnataka Ratna' for their exemplary contributions. The Chief Guest for this prestigious occasion was His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Maktoum Juma Al Maktoum, a member of the Royal Family of Dubai and Chairman of MBM Group.
The centerpiece of this event was the launch of a coffee table book that chronicled the exceptional accomplishments and unwavering dedication of these individuals to both the Gulf nations and their home state of Karnataka.
The Gulf Karnatakotsava witnessed a resounding success, with over 1000 attendees from diverse backgrounds coming together to celebrate the rich culture, heritage, and outstanding business acumen associated with Karnataka. The event served as a platform to acknowledge and honor the remarkable success stories of these individuals who have left an indelible mark on the economic and social landscapes of both the Gulf countries and Karnataka.
The highlight of the event was the felicitation of the 21 distinguished individuals who received the prestigious 'Gulf Karnataka Ratna Awards.' These business icons, representing a wide range of industries, not only achieved remarkable success but also made significant contributions to the welfare of their communities and the advancement of Karnataka.
The list of notable icons featured in the coffee table book and ‘Gulf Karnataka Ratna 2023’ awardees included Dr. Thumbay Moideen, emerging as the number one contributor in Medical Education and Healthcare sector of UAE. Notably he’s the only businessman from Karnataka who holds the distinction of being world’s only businessman from Karnataka to own a private medical University outside of India, the leader in healthcare and medical education in UAE. Other awardees included: Hidayatullah Abbas, Founder & Chairman, Hidayath Group; Mohammed Meeran, Chairman of EMCO International and Electric Way; James Mendonca, Founder & Chairman, Reliable Group of Companies; Nissar Ahmed, Chairman, Nash Engineering; Ramchandra Hegde, Managing Director, Spraytek Coatings; Joseph Mathias, Managing Director, Merit Freight Systems; Vasudeva Bhat Puthige, Owner, Venus Group of Restaurants; Mohammed Naveed Magundi, Intignis Naveed Company; Mansoor Ahmed, Chairman, Saara Group; M. Syed Khalil, Founder Chairman, K&K Enterprises; Michael D’Souza, Managing Director, Ivory Grand Real Estate; Ibrahim Gadiyar, Managing Director - Gadiyar Group of Companies and Director Projects - Pantheon Development Group; Dr. B.K Yousuf, Executive Chairman, Air Chateau International; Dr. Sathish P Chandra, CEO, Global Tech Park; Zafrullah Khan Mandya Chairman and Founder, ZGC Global / Zain Group of Hotels; Devid Frank Fernandes, Chancellor General MEA, Peace Ambassador & Chief of Mission (UAE) ICDRHRP IGO, Martin Aranha, Managing Director, Globelink West Star Shipping, John Sunil, Group Chief Executive Officer, Burjeel Holdings, Mohammed Ashif, Co-president and CEO, Expertise contracting and Ravi Shetty, Managing Director, Advanced Technical Services. Their stories of perseverance, innovation, and commitment to excellence served as an inspiration to all attendees.
The Gulf Karnatakotsava was not just about awards and accolades; it was a true celebration of Karnataka's vibrant culture and artistic heritage. The event featured a captivating blend of cultural performances, musical concerts, and comedy acts that left the audience enthralled. Traditional dances such as Pili Vesha were showcased, transporting the audience to the heart of Karnataka.
The musical segment of the event witnessed renowned artists and musicians such as, Santosh Venky, Guru Kiran and noted playback singer Chaitra HG, was a testament to the harmonious coexistence of cultures and the bond between Karnataka and the Gulf countries. Comedy, often regarded as the universal language of laughter, also played a pivotal role in the event. Comedian Kannada actors Prakash Thuminad and Deepak Rai Panaje had the audience in splits, providing moments of pure joy and amusement amidst the grandeur of the evening.
The Gulf Karnatakotsava was a celebration of success and a testament to the strong ties between Karnataka and the Gulf countries. It highlighted the importance of recognizing and honoring the contributions of individuals who have bridged the gap between these two regions, fostering cultural exchange, economic growth, and mutual understanding. As the curtains closed on the Gulf Karnatakotsava, it left behind a legacy of inspiration and pride. The 'Gulf Karnataka Ratna' awardees serve as an encouragement for aspiring entrepreneurs and a reminder that Karnataka's heritage and success stories continue to shine on the global stage.
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Mumbai (PTI): The rupee depreciated 25 paise to an all-time intraday low of 88.53 against the US dollar in early trade on Tuesday, as headwinds like enhanced US tariffs on Indian goods, as well as the US H-1B Visa fee hike, dented investor sentiments.
Forex traders said that global risk aversion and trade policy uncertainty have also exacerbated the rupee's depreciation.
At the interbank foreign exchange, the rupee opened at 88.41, then lost further ground and touched an intraday low of 88.53 against the US dollar, registering a decline of 25 paise over its previous close.
On Monday, the rupee depreciated by 12 paise to close at 88.28 against the US dollar.
Forex traders said the rupee is dwindling towards record low levels as market participants are analysing the likely repercussions of the US's new USD 100,000 H-1B visa levy, which could precipitate a slowdown in remittance growth and curtail service exports to the US.
Moreover, risk aversion in domestic markets may also pressure the rupee, they said.
"The RBI has been the only dollar provider with some small inflows on account of IPOs of Rs 7,500 crore being launched this week, but getting absorbed by the large buying of dollars.
"The RBI, however, has limited direct currency intervention, thus allowing greater volatility and possible further declines in the rupee, which has made new lows against most currencies," said Anil Kumar Bhansali, Head of Treasury and Executive Director Finrex Treasury Advisors LLP.
Meanwhile, the dollar index, which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies, was trading 0.03 per cent lower at 97.30.
Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, was trading 0.62 per cent lower at USD 66.16 per barrel in futures trade.
On the domestic equity market front, the Sensex fell 207.78 points or 0.25 per cent to 81,952.19 in morning trade, while the Nifty was down 68.40 points or 0.27 per cent to 25,133.95.
Meanwhile, Foreign Institutional Investors offloaded equities worth Rs 2,910.09 crore on Monday, according to exchange data.
Meanwhile, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is leading an official delegation to the US for trade talks.
The delegation plans to hold talks with the US team to take forward discussions with a view to achieving an early conclusion of a mutually beneficial trade agreement.
The minister will visit New York, accompanied by the special secretary in the ministry, Rajesh Agrawal, and other officials.