Eid milan unites Bhatkalli community in Dubai

DUBAI- (Muaz Shabandri) - In what was yet another spectacular eid milan for the Bhatkalli community, thousands of Bhatkalli's residing in Dubai and neighbouring emirates united in a show of strength and austerity. The annual Eid party hosted by the Bhatkalli Community in Dubai sawprominent diplomats and Emirati entrepreneurs attend the party.

Hosting a dining hall, the size of one football pitch, this year's Eid Milan was largely well organised and reflected several months of planning that go into the preparations.

The growing number, a sign of positivity in times of ecomnomic shortcomings, is a true matter of pride for the community.

Attending the event hosted at Indian High School's, Sheikh Rashid auditorium, the sold-out event featured a myriad of culturally entertaining dramas and comic performances. Add to it, a dash of patriotism by Naity poems made the night truly unforgettable.

Hosting the first session, Hallare Mohsin welcomed the guests alongwith Khalifa Mohammed Ghouse.

Interacting with the Bhatkalli community for the first time, M.K. Lokesh, Indian Ambassador to the UAE said, "I always thought Bhatkal was a small town but seeing this large gathering I doubt if it is actually so small."

Sharing in a lighter vein, he added, "I am confused as to which language to speak in. I can see a good mix of Urdu, Navaythi and English."

The ambassador welcomed his country men to participate in contributing to the development of both India and UAE as responsible citizens.

Sanjay Verma, Consul General of India to Dubai also expressed his delight on seeing a large, orderly gathering of Bhatkalli breathren outside India.

He said, "Karnataka has a myriad of cultures and a lot of shades that make it special. The diversity with which we are moving ahead in all areas is a matter of pride and concern for us.

While you preserve your culture, let us remember that we live in a multi-cultural society. Celebrate your different identities but dont push other communities."

S.M. Syed Khalil, a patriarch in the lead-up to organising the Eid Milan welcomed all the guests and dignitaries including the likes of Ram Buxani, Abdul Majeed Ahmed Seddiqi and Ibrahim Janahi.

The guest of honor, MP Abdul Rahman, Member of Indian Parliament shared his delight at being a part of such a large gathering of Bhatkalli people outside India.

He said, "It is a matter of pride that we get to see more than three per cent of the Bhatkalli community gather in a single hall outside India. Bhatkalli people are like precious stones in the development of India as a sovereign nation and we chersih yourpresence."

Abdul Salam Damda presented a scroll in honor of Abdul Bari Mohtisham, a pioneering personality in the development of Bhatkalli communion in Dubai. BMJ Dubai presented Abdul Bari with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his yeoman services to the community.

The first session came to a close with the presidential address by Ruknuddin Basha and a vote of thanks by M.J. Riyaz.

Continuing into the second session, the entertainment kicked off by Rahmatulla Rahi had no stopping. Starting with the kids program, a naat, Islamic nasheeds and several dramas, the guests were in splits. Laughter at its best, dramas like the 'Fudle Suzaan','Gulf return mhatriyon' and 'Bhatkal Airways' had the audience in applause.

The star attraction for this year, as announced, was the arrival of Shakeel Seddiqi. With the stage set for yet another enthralling session of laughter, the excitement was in the air and Shakeel added his unique flavor to an all-so-entertaining evening. Pullingjokes from audience members, the trademark Shakeel style was lauded by the guests.

Following his performance, Samiullah Barmawar presented a selection of his naity poems. Continuing well past midnight, the grand finale saw two of the finest names from comedy come on stage. Shakeel Siddiqui, partnering with sidekick, Chand Puri continuedamusing the audiences. Echoing the laughs of a several thousand people, the efforts of volunteers, organisers and patrons was a truly befitting reward for all the happiness shared in a single evening.

The customary raffle draw saw more than 90 prizes being given away with a grand prize of a complete eight set Samsung home package sponsored by Juma Al Majid Enterprises. Other grand prizes included jewellery sets, air tickets, umrah trips, iPad andmobiles phones.

Bhatkallys.com congratulates the organising team for yet another successful edition of the annual Eid Milan.

Bhatkallys News, Muaz Shabandri
Photos clicked by Muaz Shabandri, Qais Barmawar & Raaed Rahmath

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