Doha: Billawas Qatar hosts grand musical extravaganza – Swara Lahari
Media Release
Doha, 12 Jun 2025: Billawas Qatar proudly presented Swara Lahari, a spectacular musical evening that left the audience spellbound. Held on May 30 at the DPS MIS Al Wakra Auditorium, the event witnessed an overwhelming response with a full house and an audience that stayed engaged till the final curtain call.
The event featured live music by celebrated Indian artistes namely Aniruddha Sastry, Ankita Kundu, Divya Ramachandra, Supreeth Sapaliga, Amoghavarsha and his team. The evening was hosted by the charismatic Niranjan Deshpande, who kept the energy high and the audience entertained throughout.
The evening began with a warm welcome and opening address by Pooja Jiten, cultural secretary of Billawas Qatar, who greeted the audience and officially opened the event.
The occasion was graced by several notable dignitaries and leaders from the Indian community in Qatar:
Chief guest Vaibhav A Tandale, first secretary (head of chancery, labour & community welfare, consular, passport), Indian Embassy, Qatarl guests of honour Manikantan A P- president, Indian Cultural Centre (ICC); Divakar Poojary- founder & past president, Billawas Qatar; Chidananda Naik- sponsor & representative from M Pallonji WLL; dignitaries from Indian Associations in Qatar namely Sandeep Sriramareddy – head of IT & social media, ICC; Nandini – head of cultural activities, ICC; EP Abdul Rahman – president, Indian Sports Centre (ISC); Shanavas Bava – president, Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF); Deepak Shetty – general secretary, ICBF; Subramanya Hebbagilu – advisory council member, ISC; Dr M Ravi Shetty – president, Karnataka Sangha Qatar; Sandesh Anand – president, Tuluqoota Qatar; Navin Shetty – president, Bunts Qatar; Aloysius D’Souza – president, Mangalore Cultural Association; Naveen D’Souza – president, Mangalore Cricket Club Qatar; Saquib Raza Khan – president, Karnataka Muslim Cultural Association; and Suhaib Ahmed – president, South Kanara Muslim Welfare Association.
Vasudha Kotian formally opened and conducted the ceremonial function. Aparna Sharath, president of Billawas Qatar, warmly welcomed the gathering and extended heartfelt greetings to all the esteemed guests, sponsors, participants, and attendees. Her words reflected the pride and dedication of Billawas Qatar in hosting an event of such cultural magnitude.
The programme featured a range of dynamic and colorful performances, including dance acts by Vish Dance Studio, a vibrant showcase by the Junior Rockstars of Billawas Qatar, an elegant Thillana by Shyama Hamsa and an energetic dance performance by the Desi Swag Team of Billawas Qatar.
The ceremonial part of the event included the presentation of mementos to the gold sponsors in recognition of their generous support. A special felicitation ceremony was conducted to honour the chief guest - Vaibhav A Tandale, guests of honour - Manikantan A P and Divakar Poojary the event sponsor - Chidananda Naik, and all the artists and performers who contributed to the event’s success.
Jayarama Suvarna, vice president of Billawas Qatar, delivered the vote of thanks, extending deep appreciation to all dignitaries, sponsors, performers, volunteers, and the audience for making Swara Lahari a grand success.
The event was widely appreciated by all, earning praise for its flawless execution, energetic performances, and strong sense of cultural celebration.
Swara Lahari was a resounding success, uniting the community through music, dance, and cultural celebration. The evening left the audience spellbound, marking yet another proud milestone for Billawas Qatar.




