ABU DHABI-APR 14 : Abu Dhabis resourceful Social Worker and outstanding Philanthropist Sarvotham Shetty has been selected for the prestigious 'Aryabhata International Award of 2008' as a recognition for his excellent contribution and Service in the field of Social Cause.

This award will be conferred on Shetty on April 29, 2009 at Ravindra Kalakshetra, Bangalore at a glittering function which will be attended by the elite community and selected invitees.

Sarvotham a tireless social worker, a dramatist, a good organizer and above all a fine human being is well known all over the UAE and other gulf countries. His contribution towards the society is immense. He is loved and admired by all Kannadigas as well as people of other communities.

It can be recalled that Sarvotham was instrumental in the formation of Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha, Bunts Association & Tulu Koota in the United Arab Emirates and has strived for the smooth functioning of these Associations for over the past 29 years and he has been an icon among the Kannadigas. As his name suggests he is 'Sarvotham'. (Best of the Best) His down to earth dealings, clear oratory skills, and his multi talented approach and leadership qualities has the respect of all.

Sarvotham was born and brought up in Pareekh a tiny hamlet Udupi District. After his Pre-University education in Perdoor & Hiriyadka, Mr.Shetty moved to Mumbai and toiled in a hotel to earn his livelihood. Thereafter, he worked in a Solicitors office for some time. His 'earn and learn' motto got him a Government Commercial Diploma from Bombay University and later continued his education in R.A.Podar College of Commerce & Economics, Mumbai and received the B.Com degree in 1978. Active in Students Union, he represented R.A.Podar College as a Student Representative to the Senate of the University of Bombay in 1977.

He was also instrumental in forming a theatrical group by the name of 'Kalajagatthu' in Mumbai with the help of his friends.

Shetty a sincere human being moved to Abu Dhabi nearly 30 years ago and has served in various organizations and proved his mettle to be a gritty administrator and a shrewed business person. He is currently managing his own business in the UAE capital.

Sarvotham has been an excellent leader and has lead from the front in various organizations. His friendly nature and down to earth mannerisms have been an added advantage. He has been the President of the Karnataka Sangha, UAE Bunts Sangha and UAE Tulukoota, managing them diligently through his organizational capabilities.

Sarvotham Shetty was elected twice as the first Kannadiga President of INDIA SOCIAL & CULTURAL CENTRE (ISCC, Abu Dhabi) during the years 1999-2000 and 2002-2003, a rare feat for a Manglorean to be proud of. He has also been the Vice President (1995-1996) of this prestigious centre catering for the needs of Indian Community in Abu Dhabi and surrounding areas.

Apart from these he has been also the founder Vice-President of Toastmaster International Abu Dhabi Chapter and he became a CTM.

Shetty is also the Member of Board of Governors of the esteemed Abu Dhabi Indian School, Abu Dhabi, since 1997.

He was instrumental in introducing sports activities for ladies organizing tournaments (throw ball etc.) every year and made it popular throughout the gulf.

Apart from his current award, he has been the recipient of Karnataka Governments highest award the 'KARNATAKA RAJYOTSAVA AWARD' under the category of 'Horananda Kannadiga' for his all round contribution towards the society in the field of arts and culture abroad. Under his stewardship, Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha was awarded the coveted 'Suvarna Karnataka Rajyotsava Prashasthi' on the 50th Annivesary of formation of Karnataka State (2006) and on the occasion 25th Anniversary Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha, which has nurtured since its inceptio.

Sarvotham is happily married to Usha, and has two children Samarth and Samyuktha who are following on their illustrious fathers foot steps.

The award bestowed on Sarvotham is a worthy gift for this wonderful and great human being. He attributes this award to the the support of his family and all Kannadigas and people of all the communities.