UK Konkans could count Sunday’s weather as one of the Christmas gifts from Father Christmas. The clear skies, bright day and cool weather greeted the guests to an amazing celebration of Christmas.
The invitees who reached early to the venue could savour live music played by young “Konkan Band” from Elton, Elroy and Hebroyn.
The programme started with Christmas carol by members of UK Konkans.
Sheela D’Silva welcomed the sponsors and the guests.
Abigail Rebello sang the devotional song.
Recalling the recent tragic death of Jasintha Saldhana, as a mark of respect, a minute’s silence was observed. UK Konkans office bearers had contacted Mr Benedict Barboza offering help from UK Konkans.
Young children – Tia D’Souza, Delory Pinto and Heyden D’Souza danced to the Bollywood songs to the wild cheers from the crowd.
The teenage brothers duo of Glenish and Glenston D’Silva, produced superb dance item to entertain the crowd.
Eitan and Hayden sang an English Number sending a clear message that they are next in line to take part “Britain Has Got Talent”.
There was no shortage of talent in the UK Konkans camp. If the audience reaction is anything to go by Elvira, Elvita, Simona and Diona’s well choreographed dance to the tune of Hindi medley became the most applauded performance.
The final winners of “Birthday Game” narrowed down to seven birthday celebrants to cut a beautiful cake specially prepared by Beena D’Souza.
The “ENT Specialist” a skit/short drama played by Eric D’Souza, Raphael D’Souza and Sheela D’Silva drowned the audience in a sea of laughter.
The strong crowd of over 150 gave a long and noisy standing ovation to Denica Pinto for her extraordinary dance played to the tune of Radha.
A tasty and delicious cuisine from a well-laid table was served to the delighted audience.
After the lunch, Mr Richard & Mrs Christine Lobo were felicitated by Eric and Alice D’Souza for their excellent service to the Mangalorean Community. Mr Melwyn Vaz in his brief introduction recalled the celebration of Nativity Feast for last 16 years in their residence inviting all Mangaorean Catholics to join them in specially arranged Konkani mass. Their support to Mangalorean Catholic institutions, especially UK Konkans was highlighted.
Ramesh Acharya was felicitated by Raphael D’Souza for his support to UK Konkans.
Much awaited VIP and children’s most favoured Father Christmas with his customary attire arrived to sound of “Jingle Bells” played by Konkan Band. He hugged and played with children and distributed sweets to the children.
The lots for “Christmas Hamper” and Lucky Dip were drawn and winners were presented with prizes. After Game of Tambola, crowds joined the “Baila Dance”.
Raphael D’Souza thanked Team Konkans for the success of the programme and the sponsors
Mr Richard Lobo and Christine Lobo, Ramesh Acharya (Innanje), Eugene Dias & family, Kevin Madtha & family, Michael Coutinho & family, Collin and Jovita D’Souza and Dr Cyprian & Dr Veeda Mendonca for their contribution and support. He also thanked the invitees for making this event a grand success, and hoped that this event ticked all the boxes to call it a programme for the entire family.
Due to the overwhelming response from enthusiastic Mangaloreans, the organisers had to close the online reservations and apologised for the declined late requests. While the organisers tried to fit in as many children’s programmes as possible, they could not accommodate some late requests due to shortage of time.
Like the saying goes “All that starts well ends well”, as the winter night approached, the happily appreciative guests bid good bye to the organisers.
Melwyn Vaz compered the programme.
