Mangaluru: The Billava community, known for its deep cultural roots despite social and economic backwardness, is preparing for a major show of unity. A new initiative aimed at bringing several Billava organisations under one umbrella has begun to attract attention.
While the Billavas form a significant population in Karnataka, leaders say the lack of a unified organisational structure has limited their collective influence, especially in political spaces. To bridge this gap, a mega convention titled ‘Shri Guru Samavesha’, scheduled for February, is being positioned as a common platform for community groups across India and abroad.
Padmaraj R Poojary, treasurer of Kudroli Gokarnanatheshwara Temple, said the event aims to showcase the “power of the youth” and strengthen unity among followers of Brahmashri Narayana Guru.
What is Shri Guru Samavesha?
Brahmashri Narayana Guru had sparked a socio-religious reform movement by installing the idol at Kudroli Sri Gokarnanath Kshetra on February 21, 1912. To commemorate this historic event, the community will host Shri Guru Samavesha in Mangaluru on February 21, 2026.
Poojary said that Narayana Guru’s teachings had paved the way for the upliftment of backward classes, enabling them to move into the social mainstream. The upcoming convention, he added, would be a historic gathering, drawing participants from across the country and overseas.
A common platform for several organisations:
Dozens of major Billava organisations are expected to join the initiative. These include Kudroli Sri Gokarnanath Kshetra, Gejjegiri Kshetra, Katapady Vishwanath Temple, Kankanady Garadi Kshetra, National Billavara Mahamandal, All India Billavara Union, Gokarnanath Bank, Bharat Bank, Guru Deva Bank, Atmashakti Bank, Multhidar Cooperative Society, Yuva Vahini, Narayana Guru Yuva Vedike (Mangaluru and Udupi), Narayana Guru Vichar Vedike, Biruver Kudla, and Billava women’s and youth forums from various states.
According to the organisers, the temple founded by Narayana Guru has long stood for equality and harmony, transcending caste and religious divides. The upcoming convention is intended to spread awareness about the Guru’s philosophy and reinforce social, economic, educational and cultural empowerment within the community. Over one lakh devotees and followers of Narayana Guru are expected to participate.
The details were announced at a press conference addressed by Kudroli Sri Gokarnanath Kshetra president Jairaj Somasundaram and treasurer Padmaraj R Poojary. Also present were temple trustee Santosh Poojary, National Billavar Maha Mandal president Suryakant J Suvarna, All India Billavar Union president Naveen Chandra D Suvarna, State Religious Council former member Padmanabha Kotyan, leaders of various Billava Sanghas, representatives of cooperative banks, and office-bearers of youth and cultural organisations.
