BY JYOTHSNA HEGDE
Photos by Krish Photos
Atlanta, GA, December 6, 2024: The Georgia Karnataka Doctors Association (GKDA) celebrated its fourth anniversary with an annual gala at Sankranti restaurant Johns Creek on November 8, 2024. The event focused on diabetes prevention and talent – with a special theme of a Deepavali fashion show.
The Association was launched by Dr. Annapurna Bhat (Dr. Anu Bhat) in 2020, and officially registered as 501C non-profit organization in 2021. GKDA members include physicians and dentists residing or practicing in GA and of Karnataka heritage by birth, marriage, education, and/or language.
“The purpose of GKDA is to give back to community, attend and participate in cultural and social activities, to participate with medical webinars and to promote medical and non-medical legitimate business,” Dr. Anu Bhat, Founder President and current President, said. Members of the organization have participated in various social activities and health panels since 2020.
Dr. Nalini Saligram, Founder & CEO of Arogya World, was
the special guest of the night. Her foundation focuses on Diabetes Awareness
and Prevention through numerous programs. At the event, GKDA made a donation
towards the foundation. Arogya World designs and implements scalable,
science-based diabetes prevention programs in Indian schools, workplaces, and
the community. In 2021, Arogya World was chosen to be part of
the Google AI for Social Good effort.
The night featured cultural performances, some rehearsed,
some impromptu, by the physicians along concluding with Deepavali themed
Fashion show.
Dr. Bhat also announced the new Executive team for 2025. Elected
members she said included Dr Jayanti Srinivasiah, President, Dr. Kannan, Secretary
and Dr. Samir Belagaje, Treasurer. Currently the team is represented by Dr. Anu
Bhat, President, Dr. Lokesh Chikkamayanhalli, Secretary and
Dr. Samir Belagaje, Treasurer.
Dr. Subrahmanya Bhat, Board member, The Georgia Composite Medical Board in
his address spoke about ways to protect Medical Licenses.
The well-attended gala concluded with a sumptuous dinner.
