Media release

Dubai, Nov 30: FAMAD Pernal recently organised 'Vodlem Fest 2011' as celebration of their native parish feast which is held back home on the third Wednesday of November every year. The event was held recently at 'Tantra', Karama Hotel, Dubai.

The event took off with a prayer hymn in praise of the patron Our Lady of Fatima, followed by formal welcome by FAMAD Pernal president Wilfred Mathias. Traditional 'Vojem' was ceremoniously brought to the hall by members of the association.

Francis Fernandes Cascia, a senior drama writer, producer, director, actor and a philanthrophist was honoured by FAMAD Pernal for his long and outstanding service towards Konkani stage art, his literary contribution. Walter Nandalike, editor-in-chief of daijiworld.com, Dayan D'Souza Mukamar, well known writer, Konkani leader, founder member of Daiji Dubai writers' forum and Laveena Quadros, main sponsor of 'Vodlem Fest 2011' were on stage. Francis Fernandes Cascia, having penned over 32 Konkani plays and performed at over 250 stages, received this special honour with a shawl, citation, fruit basket and floral bouquet. Asha Correa read out a profile of Francis Fernandes Cascia and Dinesh Correa conducted this stage event.

The event reflected local festivities such as sweet stalls, games kiosks, competitions and prizes. Edwin D'Souza, Pernal's another in-house compere conducted the entire programme nicely and conducted various spot prizes, games and contests. Also, there were loads of other entertainment such as skits, dances by junior Ocean Kids, raffle draws.

A sumptous buffet was served for lunch. Post lunch session witnessed a mesmerizing magic show by magician Ignatius (Iggy) which was thoroughly enjoyed by young and old. A non stop bayla concluded the event.

Wilfred Mathias proposed vote of thanks and honoured members of committee who were instrumental in putting up this show.

FAMAD Pernal is a Konkani association which repesents the parishioners of Pernal whereas it is in limelight for its team of talented youngsters who have put of super hit shows such as Famad Dance Challenge 2007 and 2009, Rang Tarang 2009, Sangeet Suwad, Konkani Antakshari which were unique, highly innovative and quality entertainers. Similarly, Famad Pernal has participated in various Konkani competitions and not only won prizes including the prestigious Daiji Dubai Protibha Spordho, but also received high accolades for their creativity.