Dr Arathi Krishna interacts with non-resident Kannadigas in Riyadh, assures govt’s support

coastaldigest.com news network

March 6, 2018

Riyadh: Dr Aarti Krishna, Deputy Chairperson, Non Resident Indian Forum, Karnataka govt, during her recent visit to Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, interacted with Kannadiga expatriates in Riyadh. This is the first such event ever held in Riyadh.

Addressing over 700 non-resident Kannadigas on February 23, Dr Arathi Krishna said that most of the demands of the Karnataka NRIs are very genuine and promised to take-up with the Chairman of KNRI Forum, the Chief Minister of Karnataka Siddaramiah.

She stressed that the government of Karnataka would fulfill the aspirations and needs of the people of Karnataka in Riyadh. She announced that roll out of NRK card for Karnataka NRIs is on the anvil and will be executed very soon. She said that the government of Karnataka this year has allocated budget for NRI welfare activities. She informed that Karnataka NRI Forum has already set up NRI Welfare Centers in Commissioner Office at each district in Karnataka. She assured that her government would make necessary arrangements for Karnataka NRIs returning from Saudi Arabia on final exit.

Santhosh Shetty Ardi, President of Karnataka NRI Forum, Riyadh, while delivering welcome speech recalled the vast experience and determination of Dr Arathi Krishna and apprised the audience of her contribution to the Kannadigas staying globally.

He expressed optimism in her efforts to address genuine issues pending for NRIs, Santosh Shetty also assisted Dr. Arthi Krishna in answering some questions raised by audience on her behalf. Shetty also thanked Ahmed Javed, Ambassador of India in Saudi Arabia and Anil Nautial, Community Welfare Councilor Indian Embassy for giving opportunity showcase the theme “ONE STATE MANY WORLDS” - Karnataka’s culture, tradition, people and their progress in Janadriyah Festival. India is the guest of honor country in this magnificent Saudi cultural festival this year.

Dr Anwar Khursheed, Advisor, KNRI Forum Riyadh delivered a short speech outlining his experience in KSA spread over four decades. He stressed the need to be united and exhibit the solidarity of Karnataka NRIs in Riyadh. He conveyed to the visiting dignitary Dr. Arathi that Indians are very well known and respected for being law abiding and hardworking expatriate community in Saudi Arabia.

A memorable memento of appreciation was presented to Dr. Arathi Krishna by the dignitaries present on the dais on behalf of Kannadigas in Riyadh.

Many Karnataka organizations participated and contributed financially to make this event highly successful including, Karnataka NRI Forum, Karavali Welfare Association, JF Riyadh, Karnataka Cultural Forum Riyadh (KCF), PANORAMA, NRI Forum Riyadh, NRI Muslim DK, Khidma Foundation, Mangalore Cricket Association,

Konkan Ghar Riyadh, Hidaya Foundation, Dakshina Kannada Muslim Okkuta Riyadh, Karnataka Welfare Association, Katipalla Muslim Youth Association, Bhatkal Muslim Welfare Association, BISMI, BARSA ,ISF,and Indian Fraternity Forum.

Well-known entities in Riyadh, such as Friendi Mobiles, Taj Restaurant, Kadesiah Medical Center co-sponsored the event.

Karnataka NRI Forum Riyadh, office bearers Santhosh Shetty Ardi , President, Roshan Shabbir, Treasurer, Usman Kunjathur, Secretary, Nazir Ahmad Joint Secretary, Irfan Sheikh Mani, coordinator, Dr. Syed Anwar Khursheed and Dr. Sayeed Mohiuddin, Advisors graced their presence on the dais along with the Chief Guest, Dr. Arathi Krishna.

Dr. Arathi Krishna had personal interaction with office bearers of the different Organizations individually and heard patiently the issues faced by them. She promised to resolve the problems faced by Karnataka NRIs in Saudi Arabia and to maximize the facilities for returning NRIs for their rehabilitation, children’s education, loan and other legal support.

Vote of thanks was proposed by KNRI Forum, Treasurer, Roshan Shabbir. He extended his thanks and appreciation to Dr. Arthi Krishna in her dedication to visit Saudi Arabia and assured all support required by NRIs in building vibrant Karnataka.

Further, visiting dignitary paid avisit to Janadriyah Cultural Festival as “Representative of the people and Government of Karnataka” and appreciated the efforts and hard work done by Indian Community. She was welcomed at Janadriyah Festival by ShriAnil Nautial, Community Welfare Officer of the Indian Embassy, Riyadh.

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Great... good intiative by karnataka govt. But what sort of benefit govt provide for returning NRI'S no one knows. No officials of commissioner office knows about this. And site is not working to register. Is anyone can answer about the actual facilities or its only publicity.

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From Dubai boom to Bengaluru backlash: Inside CJ Roy’s journey

News Network

January 31,2026

Bengaluru: The shooting incident involving CJ Roy, founder of the Confident Group, has once again put the spotlight on a businessman whose life has swung between flamboyant global success and persistent controversy at home.

Though Roy’s business interests extended across continents, his roots lay firmly in Karnataka. An alumnus of Christ School in Bengaluru, he later moved to Tumakuru to pursue an engineering degree. Those familiar with his early years describe him as intensely ambitious, beginning his career as a salesman at a small electronics firm dealing in computers.

Roy’s entry into large-scale real estate came through the Crystal Group, where he worked closely with Latha Namboothiri and rose from manager to director. However, the launch of the Confident Group in 2005 was clouded by industry speculation. Insiders speak of a fallout involving alleged “benami” properties and claims of deception that ultimately led to his independent venture—an episode Roy spent years trying to distance himself from, according to associates.

A tale of two cities

Roy’s professional trajectory diverged sharply across geographies.

In Dubai, he built a reputation as a bold and efficient developer, completing massive luxury residential projects in record time—some reportedly within 11 months. His rapid project delivery and lavish lifestyle in the Emirates earned him admiration and visibility in the real estate sector.

In Bengaluru, however, his image remained far more fractured. Sources say Roy stayed away from the city for several years amid disputes over unpaid dues to vendors and suppliers. Several projects were allegedly stalled, with accusations of unfulfilled commitments to cement and steel suppliers continuing to follow him.

Roy’s return to Bengaluru’s business and social circles began around 2018, marked by a conscious attempt at rebranding. His appointment as Honorary Consul of the Slovak Republic added diplomatic legitimacy, which he complemented with visible CSR initiatives, including ambulance donations and high-profile charity events.

Heavy police presence in Langford Town

Following the incident, police personnel from the Central division were deployed outside the Confident Group building in Langford Town, which also houses the Slovak Honorary Consulate in Bengaluru.

The otherwise busy premises near Hosur Road wore a deserted look on Friday, reflecting the shock and uncertainty that followed the tragedy.

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Badria Vision 2028: Phase I Project Launched at Campus Ceremony

coastaldigest.com news network

January 19,2026

Mangaluru: The Phase I project of Badria Vision 2028 was formally launched at a ceremony held at the Badria Campus on January 17, marking an important step in the institution’s long-term development roadmap.

The programme was attended by P.B. Abdul Hameed, Secretary of the MEA, and P.C. Hasir, Correspondent of the MEA, who presided over the event and underscored the institution’s commitment to growth and academic excellence.

Office-bearers of the Badria Alumni Association were present in large numbers, including A.K. Sajid (President), Shamsuddin and S.M. Farooq (Vice-Presidents), Shaheed (General Secretary), and Khaleel (Treasurer), reflecting strong alumni engagement in the initiative.

The gathering was blessed by Sayyid Shamsuddeen Basith Thangal Kukkaje, Qateeb of Zeenat Yatheem Bakshi, who led a special dua seeking divine guidance and success for the project.

The ceremony also witnessed the participation of prominent alumnus and local corporate professional Abdul Latheef, along with alumni members Naushad, Kalandar, Safwan, members of the core committee, and several other former students.

A key moment of the event was the formal handover of a cheque to Ameen Woodland Architect, signalling the immediate commencement of construction work under Phase I of the project.

Organisers said the launch of Phase I reflects a shared vision, institutional unity, and collective resolve to realise the objectives of Badria Vision 2028.

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