Khobar unit one), the family-centric wing of Navodaya, organized a cultural extravaganza called “Greeshma Sandhya 2011” (Summer Cultural Evening) Friday at Carlton Moaibed Hotel, Al-Khobar. The full day program recorded attendance in excess of 1,000 people across its three major segments and was a resounding success. The cultural programs showcased the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India. Indian classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathak and Kuchipudi; folk art forms of Kerala like Oppana, Mappila Pattu and Kolkkali; and cinematic dances were performed by trained and accomplished artists from Al-Khobar, Dammam and other parts of the Eastern province, apart from members of Navodaya. Leading singers from among the expatriate Indian community of the region rendered solo songs in Malayalam, Hindi and Tamil. Members of the Vanithavedi, the women's wing of the Navodaya Kudumbavedi, presented the welcome song. Aju Mathews and Jisha Dani anchored the show. The cultural evening was inaugurated by the chief guest Dr. E.K. Mohammed Shaffe, Principal of the International Indian School, Dammam (IISD). P.A. Samad, President of Navodaya (unit one) presided over the function. Sreedevi Menon, Principal of Al-Khozama International School; George Varghese, patron of Navodaya central committee; and Pavanan Moolakkal, Navodaya Al-Khobar area secretary, were among other notable guests who graced the occasion. Raveendran Kavil welcomed the gathering and K. Sharaf proposed the vote of thanks. The day began with a health awareness seminar led by Dr. Hari from the Bader Al-Rabie dispensary. As part the event, a painting competition for children and family quiz contest for Navodaya members were conducted. Sivan Menon, Administrator at the Sunshine Public School and Aju Mathews were the quiz masters for the contest. The annual general body of the Navodaya Kudumbavedi was also convened in the morning session. K.Prabhash, the organization's secretary, presented the working report and T.S.Dani, the treasurer, provided the statement of income and expenses. HDFC India, Lulu Hypermarket Al-Khobar, City Flower Dammam and Pramas Ventures were the major sponsors of the event.
