Rotary Utsav 2026 District Conference Inaugurated with Celebration of Service, Leadership & Unity

Rotary Utsav 2026 marked the flagship District Conference of Rotary District 3234, held under the global banner of Rotary International at the Chennai Trade Centre on February 21, 2026. True to its theme, “Big Ideas. Bigger Celebrations,” the single-day conference brought together Rotarians from Chennai and neighbouring regions for an inspiring blend of service, leadership, culture, and fellowship.

The day began with breakfast and registration, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the Kuthuvilakku and a dignified inaugural session featuring the National Anthems of Malaysia and India, along with Tamil Thai Vazhthu. District Governor AKS Rtn. Vinod Saraogi formally called the conference to order, joined by distinguished leaders including RI President’s Representative PDG Rtn. Siti Subaidah Mustaffa and Chief Guest PRID Rtn. A.S. Venkatesh. Past District Governors were honoured in recognition of their service.

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Insightful Sessions & Thought Leadership:

The conference featured an impressive line-up of speakers and performers:

• Mr. Krishnakumar Thirumalai, CEO of Reliance Consumer Products Limited, spoke on “India has to succeed where Indians have.”
• Ambassador Ajay Bisaria, IFS, addressed global dynamics in “A New World Disorder.”
• Renowned veena exponent Rajesh Vaidya delivered a captivating talk and performance, followed by the presentation of The Versatile Artiste Award.
• A high-powered panel discussion on the current political scenario was anchored by journalist Rangaraj Pandey.
• Major General H. Dharmarajan shared insights in “From Battlefields to Boardrooms.”
• Dr. Jayanthasri Balakrishnan inspired the audience with “The Evolution: From A Woman to THE Woman.”
• Mr. Vineet Saraiwala delivered a powerful message in “Disability is in Our Minds.”

Young achievers were celebrated, including chess prodigy Ms. Sharvaanica, while DGE Rtn. Suresh Jain introduced the incoming district team.

Celebration & Fellowship:

Interludes featuring Sri Lankan dance, performances by Presidents, Secretaries, First Ladies, and Lady Presidents, along with multiple lucky draws, added festive energy throughout the day. The valedictory session included concluding remarks by the RI President’s Representative and the formal adjournment by the District Governor.

The evening transformed into a grand cultural celebration with Kantara dance, musical performances, illusion acts by Vicky Krish, Broadway-style presentations, and live entertainment by ELFÉ Band, culminating in dinner and fellowship until 11:00 PM.

Rotary Utsav 2026 truly lived up to its name — a festival of service, leadership, inspiration, and celebration, reinforcing Rotary’s enduring motto: Service Above Self.

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