Doha, Jul 16: Karnataka Sangha Qatar as part of its social and benevolent responsibility, organized its annual blood donation campaign for the year 2024 at HMC’s Qatar National Blood Donation Center, Doha.

The formal function started with an opening note by vice president KS Ramesha, who introduced and invited general secretary Kumar Swamy to manage the further proceedings. The president of Karnataka Sangha Qatar, Ravi Shetty, welcomed all the dignitaries and donors gathered, narrating a Sanskrit shloka that signifies the preciousness of blood: “A mother’s tears cannot save her child’s life, but your blood can.”

Chief guest Bindu Nair, second secretary from the Embassy of India, and other dignitaries, including ICBF president Shanavas Bawa and Karnataka toastmaster’s president Uday Shetty, highlighted the key contributions of blood donation and its impact on society. Dr Dore Ananthe Gowda, head of ICU at Hamad Medical Corporation and consultant in critical care, delivered an insightful speech educating the audience on the process of utilizing donated blood and its influence on saving multiple lives.

The president, along with the chief guest, dignitaries, and MC members, presented a “Felicitation Memento” to Dr Dore as a token of appreciation. They also honored World Champion speaker Nisha Shivaram, who graced the event along with other Toastmasters. KSQ Management Committee member Bheemappa Khot proposed the vote of thanks.

Advisory Committee members of Karnataka Sangha Qatar, including Arun Kumar, H K Madhu, Dr Sanjay Kudari, former ICC president Milan Arun, presidents, and committee members of other Karnataka-based ICC associate organizations like Tulukoota, MCC, KMCA, SKMWA, Bunts, Billawas, and MCA, along with several senior KSQ members and past MC members, graced the event with their presence, joining in the noble cause.

More than 150 expatriate community members turned out and registered for this noble cause despite the hot weather conditions. Appreciation certificates were issued as a token of appreciation to all the donors. While Karnataka Toastmasters joined their hands in this campaign, other friends, and organizations especially Venture Gulf extended their support, resulting in a large turnout of donors.

Past president, Madhu paid homage to the departed soul of the popular Kannada actress and TV presenter Aparna Vastarey, and the whole audience observed a minute of silence as a mark of respect to the departed soul.

Canara Jewellery extended significant support to the event. MC members and many volunteers worked as a team to make the event successful with good support and cooperation from Hamad Medical Corporation.