BY JYOTHSNA HEGDE
Atlanta/Bengaluru, February 20, 2026: The North America Vishwa Kannada Association (NAVIKA) announced that its 9th World Summit will be held in Atlanta from September 3 to 5, 2027. The global gathering of World Kannadigas will take place at the Gas South Convention Center.
The announcement was made during a press conference on Feb 9,2026 in at the Bangalore Press Club where the association outlined its roadmap for promoting Kannada heritage on a global stage and strengthening connections within the diaspora.
Newly elected NAVIKA President, Atlanta’s Dr. Annapurna Bhat expressed deep gratitude and humility in assuming leadership as the 9th President of the organization. Calling NAVIKA an “extraordinary nonprofit” and a “testament to excellence,” she reaffirmed its founding purpose — to unite Kannadigas globally and promote Kannada language, culture, and Karnataka’s rich heritage worldwide.
“I am extremely honored and privileged to serve as President of NAVIKA,” she said. “Together with my hardworking and dedicated executive team, we will strive to make NAVIKA more inclusive, more progressive and more successful.”
Dr. Bhat emphasized that her leadership would be guided by transparency, honesty, accountability, and integrity. She outlined a broad and ambitious agenda that includes organizing educational initiatives such as sessions on Artificial Intelligence, medical education, entrepreneurship, and other emerging fields. In addition, NAVIKA will expand charitable initiatives, promote youth leadership and sports activities, and encourage innovative ideas across communities.
She also highlighted the importance of women’s empowerment and advocacy efforts that engage with both local and Indian legislative matters to benefit non-resident Kannadigas.
“Our goal is to build a vibrant global network of Kannadigas across social, cultural, educational, business, and technological fields,” Dr. Bhat said. “We invite everyone to support us, encourage us, and actively participate in this journey.”
The 2027 World Summit is expected to serve as a ‘Global Kannadiga’ networking hub, seamlessly blending business, technology, and Karnataka’s artistic traditions.
The event will feature sessions on Artificial Intelligence, medical entrepreneurship, and youth leadership, alongside cultural showcases celebrating Kannada literature, theatre, music, and dance. The summit is expected to host political leaders, industrialists, litterateurs, and prominent members of the global Kannada community.
Senior actor Sundar Raj lauded NAVIKA’s efforts in bridging Karnataka and the diaspora. Reflecting on the meaning of the word ‘NAVIKA’ — which translates to “sailor” in Kannada — he remarked, “It reflects the responsibility of steering our culture across oceans. This platform is not just about nostalgia; it provides a global stage for our artists and literature.”
Former minister S. R. Patil, filmmaker B. Suresha, and actress Prema were also present at the press conference to lend their support. Prema underscored the importance of engaging younger generations, noting that such summits help youth remain rooted in their linguistic heritage while thriving in a globalized world.
As part of its continuing outreach initiatives, NAVIKA announced that in collaboration with the Dubai Karnataka Sangha, a Karnataka Rajyotsava” and Navikotsava and Drama Festival will be organised on November 22 this year. The event aims to celebrate Karnataka Rajyotsava and further strengthen cultural ties among overseas Kannadigas.
Founded in 2009, NAVIKA has previously held summits in Florida and in countries including Kenya and Germany. Founder members, including Vallisha Shastry, reiterated that the organization remains a non-political and inclusive platform dedicated to global Kannada unity. Other active Founder members and past Presidents include Dr Keshav Babu, Suresh Ramachandra and Dr Raj Rajur.
With the 2027 Atlanta summit, NAVIKA seeks to create a landmark convention that brings together heritage and innovation — reinforcing its mission to serve as a dynamic global forum for Kannadigas worldwide.
