Media Release
Udupi, Apr 28: The Catholic Sabha unit of St Anne’s Church, Thottam, Udupi, hosted a grand Easter Art Evening on Sunday, April 27, drawing an enthusiastic crowd to the church’s open-air stage. The event, aimed at raising funds for various church projects, showcased the parish’s strong sense of unity and commitment to cultural enrichment.
The evening began with a formal inauguration by renowned Konkani singer Vishwas Rebimbus, who praised the initiative and extended his best wishes for its success. His presence set an uplifting tone, emphasizing the value of artistic expression within the faith community.
Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh president Ronald D Almeida attended as chief guest. In his address, Almeida stressed the importance of organized community service, highlighting how collective efforts and unity drive progress and benefit all members of the parish.
A highlight of the evening was the official launch of the cultural organization ‘Pratibhangan’ by parish priest Fr Denis D’Sa. In his remarks, Fr D’Sa urged the audience to cherish humanity and compassion over mechanization, underscoring the crucial role of cultural programs in fostering well-being and emotional balance.
The Sabha also took the opportunity to honour Fr Denis D’Sa for his steadfast support as spiritual director, with members expressing deep gratitude for his guidance and encouragement.
The heart of the celebration was a series of captivating cultural performances. Nelson Lewis Santekatte’s Carols Beat Group delighted the audience with songs in Konkani, Kannada, and Hindi, reflecting the region’s rich musical heritage. Local artists and the comedy troupe ‘Memory’ from Mangalore added to the festivities with engaging acts and humour, while members of Pratibhangan staged the comedic play “Vejik Puth,” highlighting the organization’s commitment to nurturing local talent.
A particularly touching moment came with Fr Denis D’Sa’s soulful rendition of a Konkani song dedicated to a mother’s love, moving the audience and reinforcing the event’s spirit of community and shared values.
The program was attended by prominent parish and community leaders, including Sunil Fernandes (vice president, Pastoral Committee), Sr Sushma (convent head), and Clarence Fernandes (president, Pratibhangan), demonstrating widespread support for the initiative.
Veena Fernandes, president of the Catholic Sabha Thottam unit, welcomed guests, while Secretary delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging all contributors. The evening was seamlessly anchored by Lavina Fernandes, ensuring a memorable experience for all.
The Easter Art Evening at Thottam Church stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration and the enduring importance of cultural expression in uniting and uplifting the parish. The overwhelming response reflects the Catholic Sabha’s dedication to service and the preservation of cultural heritage