Mangaluru: In Mumbai, a city where Kannada is not the official language, Chinnara Bimba stands tall as a hope for preserving the Kannada language and culture. Since its inception in 2003, this initiative has catered to over 7,000 children aged 6-14 years, most hailing from Karnataka's coastal regions. Around 1,000 students enrol annually in the free four-year programme, with more than 50% completing the course every year. Classes are held across 28 locations in Mumbai and its suburbs, conducted weekly in temples and schools provided by supportive owners.
Founded by retired additional deputy commissioner of police, Prakash Bhandary, the organisation focuses on instilling cultural pride and life skills in children. It offers lessons in Yakshagana, folk dances, traditional songs, bhajans, rural games and even Karnataka's local culinary heritage. The Kannada curriculum was framed by GN Upadhyaya, head, the department of Kannada at Mumbai University. The programme is driven by a dedicated team of 62 volunteers, including 30 Kannada teachers and 32 Bhajan instructors, who receive a nominal honorarium. Parents also play an active role and are given certain responsibilities, and those interested even participate in cultural events, Bhandary told TOI.
Bhandary's family, including his daughters Pooja and Naina, his wife Renuka, and collaborators like Dr Surendra Kumar Hegde and Poornima Shetty, contribute significantly to the effort. Geetha Herala and Asha Kottari are the coordinators for the programme.
Beyond cultural education, Chinnara Bimba emphasises personality development, helping children gain confidence and excel in public speaking. Interestingly, even a few non-Kannadigas have joined the programme, said Bhandary.
This year's annual event, from Nov 29 to Dec 1, will feature drama and Yakshagana competitions, with selected teams performing on the final day. Several politicians from Karnataka are expected to participate. Students are provided with uniforms, and the organisation spends Rs 35–40 lakh annually. Bhandary hopes for the Karnataka govt's support to sustain this initiative that strengthens cultural roots among Mumbai's Kannadiga diaspora.