Media Release
Dubai, July 1: Mangalore Konkans Dubai hosted its much-awaited event Mattov on June 28 at Lavender Hotel, Dubai. The evening was a grand celebration of Karnataka’s spirit, unity, and cultural richness. Mangalore Konkans’ first-ever Sadhan Puraskar was conferred on Alwyn Pinto in grandeur.
Over 225 guests, including presidents, office bearers of Karnataka-based associations, community leaders, and well-wishers, attended the event. The evening was filled with heartfelt speeches, colourful performances, and joyful memories.
Stephen Menezes, president of Mangalore Konkans, welcomed the guests with his opening speech. The event was inaugurated with the planting of a sapling by the guests. Chief executive officer of Thumbay Group Vignesh S, co-founder of Design Infinity LLC Pratap Mendonca, and Padma Shri Dr B R Shetty were the guests of honour at the inaugural programme. Past president of Mangalore Konkans Dubai and managing director of Reliable Fabricators James Mendonca was present along with executive committee members during the inauguration.
During his speech, Vignesh S emphasised the core values of Thumbay Group and the vision of founder president of Thumbay Group Dr Thumbay Moideen. He connected the group’s vision to Mangalore Konkans’ social service motto and said that when values are derived with purpose, wonders are created—be it in business, as achieved by Thumbay Group, or the legacy that MKD has created over the past years.
Pratap Mendonca motivated the gathering to focus on “RCB”, which he defined as Respect, Confidence, and Bravery. He said, “When we show respect to our work, are confident in the path we have chosen, and take brave decisions when the path tests us, success will be achieved.” He wished the entire Mangalore Konkans team great success ahead.
Dr B R Shetty recalled his memories with Mangalore Konkans Dubai and congratulated the entire team for their growth, dedication, and commitment in promoting Konkani culture and language and in supporting humanity. Dr Shetty said he considers MKD a part of his family and is always honoured to be part of its events.
The highlight of the evening was the bestowal of the Sadhan Puraskar to Alwyn Pinto. He, along with his wife Prescilla Pinto, was welcomed to the stage by a grand procession accompanied by Mangalore Konkans Dubai members, a Mangalorean brass band, and the Damaskachi Satri (umbrella of honour). Guests Pratap Mendonca, Vignesh S, Sarvottam Shetty, Benedict Pinto – managing director of Al Khalidiya Group of Companies, Abu Dhabi – along with president of MKD Stephen Menezes, conferred the Sadhan Puraskar on Alwyn Pinto. The honour included a shawl, garland, fruit basket, Urmal (crown of honour), and Sadhan Puraskar memento. Past president of MKD James Mendonca congratulated Prescilla Pinto with an MKD memento for her unwavering support to Alwyn Pinto and his selfless service to the community and culture. In his address, Alwyn Pinto expressed his happiness and thanked everyone who supported and joined hands with him in his journey of service to humanity, Konkani culture, language, and social work.
The event comprised thought-provoking speeches from the dignitaries. President of Karnataka NRI Forum UAE and UAE Bunts, chairman of Fortune Group of Hotels Praveen Shetty emphasised the importance of cultural diversity and why it matters. Vice president of Konkani Cultural Organization Abu Dhabi, managing director of Quick Accounting & Advisory CA Valerian Almeida reminded everyone of the simple joys and traditions of religious celebrations back home in Mangaluru. He also spoke about how one can create a difference through unity. President of Beary’s Welfare Forum Abu Dhabi, founder of Skiltec Ace Global HR Consultancy Mohammed Ali Uchil spoke about how the sponsors can be supported. Chief coordinator of St Mary’s Mangalorean Konkani Community Dubai, managing director of Merit Freight Systems Joseph Mathias urged that there should be more events and opportunities for people to come together. President of Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha, managing director of Sirin Artmobiles Sarvottam Shetty stressed the need for unity and harmony among all communities.
The Mattov event witnessed cultural festivity through unique performances that brought the spirit of the Konkani community alive. The presentations included Gumta, Vovio (verse singing), folk dance, Maando songs, and Baila dance. These glimpses of Konkani cultural heritage received applause from the audience.
The Family Fiesta 2025 poster was released on the occasion of Mattov by managing director of Leyton Shipping LLC Lancy D’Souza, managing director of Resort Supplies Trading LLC Manoj Vas, and managing director of Al Khalidiya Group of Companies Benedict Pinto. President of MKD Stephen Menezes and chief coordinator of Family Fiesta Roshan D'Silva accompanied the guests.
At the entrance of the auditorium, guests were welcomed in traditional Mangalorean style with jaggery, coconut shavings, jasmine flowers, and water. In a unique gesture, representatives and honoured guests were gifted live plants symbolising growth, respect, and eco-friendliness.
Lancy Madtha, managing director of Integrated Freight and Logistics LLC; Shameer, chief executive officer of Tajvi Gold & Diamonds; Rocky Rego, managing director of Arabian Falcon Construction Equipment LLC; Jockim Menezes, managing director of Wavelink LLC; Ramachandra Hegde, managing director of Spraytek Coatings LLC; and James Mendonca, managing director of Reliable Fabricators LLC, felicitated the association and community leaders with Mangalore Konkans’ token of appreciation.
The event was hosted by Floyd, and vice president of Mangalore Konkans Dubai Rajesh Sequeira proposed the vote of thanks. Secretary Goldina D’Souza, treasurer Melroy Pinto, media coordinator Ashith Pinto, and all committee members of Mangalore Konkans Dubai contributed to the success of the Mattov event.
