Sunday, 27th November 2016, it was another memorable day for Kannada community in the UK as KannadigaruUK (KUK) celebrated Kannada Rajyotsava for the 12thtime. The Oakington Manor Hall at Wembly trembled to the laughter and jubilation of the audience gathered to witness the astounding performances from artists from India and also the local talents as part of KannadigaruUK’s Kannada Rajyotsava 2016 .

KUK had invited Kannada Actor, Director and TV show anchor Ramesh Aravind and India’s famous female ventriloquist Indushree to entertain Kannadigas in the UK. Nearly 700 people from all corners of the UK braved the freezing winter to enjoy the performance by these artists and experience other cultural programmes. The event started with delicious lunch and regular rituals of lighting the sacred lamp by the guests, prayer, songs and dance by the children who attend Kannada Kali classes (classes where Kannada language is taught to next generation kids) .

This event was more popularly known as “A weekend in London with Ramesh” on lines the famous tele show that Ramesh hosts back home regularly. As audience were enthralled enjoying the cultural events Ramesh Aravindentered the auditorium from nowhere unexpectedly to the pleasant surprise of the audience. Greeting all his fans on the way to stage Ramesh started with child events that made him develop fascination for acting. He narrated many events that occurred from childhood to professional career as an actor , director and tele host. Kannadigas were extremely excited to see their favourite star share his experience in the film industry, interesting events and turning points in his life. He came down to the audience, interacted with them with great zeal, answered their questions and entertained with his witty presentation of his experiences. He kept the audience engaged and immersed continuously for one and half hours. The KUK executive committee members felicitated him for his contribution to the Kannada film industry and for performing there to entertain the Kannadigas in the UK.

The audience were due for another surprise and hilarious performance after the tea break and some cultural programmes by the local talents. This time it was India’s famous ventriloquist Indushree. Using contemporary happenings in India and with her instantaneous humour, she made the audience burst into laughter right through the time she performed on the stage. Her popular characters Dinku and Thatha (grandpa) came alive through her enacting and powerful humorous dialogues. She also entertained more than 200 kids gathered there with her magic tricks which left them mesmerised. The better halves of KUK executive committee felicitated Indushree after the performance.

The event ran precisely according to the schedule and Kannadigas who participated in the event were overwhelmed with amazing performance by these artist duos. Everyone present felt that it was a memorable and long cherished event and applauded KannadigaruUK’s efforts in organising such a wonderful cultural experiences and Kannada learning classes at various locations for the children