13 September 2025

Britain Billawa Balaga UK Inaugural Function

More than 120 Billawas gathered in Coventry for the association's inaugural UK function, celebrating culture, service, and a growing community.

Inaugural function

Britain Billawa Balaga UK held its inaugural function on Saturday, 13 September 2025 at the Holiday Inn Express in Coventry, under the leadership of elected president Dr P. K. Manoj Poojary. The ceremonial lamp was lit with representatives of the Guru Charity Trustees and the Mangalore Malawi Association, including Sandesh Vivekanand. The cultural programme brought together Yakshagana, Tulu Dennana dance, Tulu songs, violin and guitar performances, and a children’s Kotichannaya skit. Vinod Pademar coordinated and presented the programme, while Leena Kotian introduced the association’s plans for the years ahead. Dheeraj Anchan spoke about the role of community associations and the Balaga’s charitable work, and Manjunath Poojary was recognised for his valuable IT support. Prasanna Suvarna delivered the vote of thanks. In his presidential address, Dr Manoj Poojary described the gathering as a landmark moment for Billawas in the Western world, with more than 120 attendees. He thanked committee members and Billawa associations around the world for their encouragement, and highlighted the community’s growth from 25 members at its 2016 inception to more than 150 families living across the UK. He also acknowledged the senior members who established the UK Guru Charity, which has provided scholarships to hundreds of students in India. The next annual event was announced for 12 September 2026.