Report by: Gladson Dalmeida, Brahmavar
Pictures by: Roshan Dalemida, Brahmavar

Dubai, Oct 14: Finally the day long-awaited by hundreds of Brahmavarites residing in the United Arab Emirates arrived and the response by the attendees showed that United Brahmavarites’ launching was eagerly-awaited and most needed one too.

The need to bring together all the Brahmavarites working and residing in UAE was felt long ago and plans were chalked out to form a common platform which would promote and nurture the unity of the Brahmavarites. But often plans could not match the pace of living despite the strenuous efforts of a few like-minded individuals. The obstacles would have pushed lesser mortals to shelve the plans. But lion-hearted Brahmavarites are not among those who enjoy being just in the audience. 

Living by the coastal belt that often gives them ample anxious moments and throws challenges of greater magnitude, the Brahmavarites have learnt to face the challenges and overcome them with single-minded commitment and brave heart. This never-say-die attitude is the corner-stone on which the magnificent castle of United Brahmavarites is taking shape. The launching ceremony which was attended by large number of enthusiastic Brahmavarites despite the short notice clearly showed that the United Brahmavarites’ has taken a giant leap towards reaching out to greater horizons in order to promote, preserve and nurture the dreams of hundreds of ‘Brahmavaragars’ and celebrate their unity.

The first-ever gathering that focused on bringing together each other and enhancing the mutual bonds was held at the Fortune Plaza Hotel here on Friday October 12, 2012. Praveen Kumar Shetty, the managing director of Fortune Group of Hotels, Kannada writer and thinker Irshad Moodbidri and social worker Novel D’Almeida were the chief guests at the inaugural function of the United Brahmavarites (UB).

The programme began at 12 noon with a meaningful prayer by Deral Menezes.  UAE’s most sought-after compere Uttam Menezes gave a small introduction about the UB and importance of such get-togethers which not only bring people together but also enrich familiarity and enhance unity.

United Brahmavarites’ president Jeevan Sequeira in his keynote address emphasized the need of forming UB and shed light on the preparations that led to the formation of UB. He thanked everyone for their support and requested similar cooperation and support for the future programmes. Roshani Menezes, the secretary of United Brahmvarites read a brief report about the Forum and presented the future plans and activities.

The auspicious moment finally arrived when Praveen Kumar Shetty and Novel D’Almeida joined together and cut the ribbon tied around the coconut plant to proclaim the official launching of United Brahmavarites amidst the thunderous applause by the gathering. The creative launching centering around the coconut plant was a symbolic interpretation of the importance and huge role of coconut tree in the lives of Brahmvarites. Being on the coastal belt, almost every house in and around Brahmavar has coconut tree. The ‘Tree of Life’ does play prominent role in the lives of Brahmvarites as many of the houses earn their livelihood through these gardens. Houses in Brahmavar vicinity might not have flower gardens but coconut gardens do décor their surroundings. This symbolic depiction of ‘Tree of Life’ did offer a momentous opening to United Brahmavarites.

Praveen Kumar Shetty also launched the new logo of United Brahmavarites and congratulated the UB group for their work and extended his full support and also requested the organizers to work beyond caste, language, religion in order to make the association as a common platform for all Brahmavarites in the UAE.

The Forum thanked and felicitated Daijiworld Managing Director Walter Nandalike, Daiji Dubai member Dayan D’Souza, Karaval Milan former presidents Rony Byndoor and Eric Dsouza and Daijiworld marketing chief Praveen Tauro for their support and encouragement to United Brahmavarites.

Novel D’Almeida felicitated sponsors while Irshad Moodbidri in his address thanked the Forum for inviting him and wished good luck to the entire UB team.

Karaval Milan Band headed by Rony Byndoor along with Goldina, Gretta, Jessy and Eric did a fabulous job by presenting some super-duper hit Konkani and Kannada songs that regaled the audience.

Feat Beat group members who are well-known for their elegant performances delighted the gathering with their scintillating dances. Humorous skits by the UB team sent the audience in peals of laughter well appreciated by everyone.

UB member Ivan proposed vote of thanks. A special mention must be made about Uttam Menezes who again proved that he is one of the best Konkani comperes in the UAE as of now with his mastery over Konkani and ability to hold the audience under sway throughout.

The well-organized programme gave clear indication that United Brahmavarites and its office-bearers are committed to delivering quality programmes. The programme came to an end with the baila dance that had almost everyone in the gathering storming to the dance floor.

More Pictures.. Click Here