Daijiworld News Network - New Delhi
Sep 12: Over 350 Mangalorean Catholics celebrated the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary with devotion and gaiety on Saturday, Sep. 9, 2006 at New Delhi. Union Minister, Oscar Fernandes in his presidential speech, urged all Mangalorean Catholics to develop greater bonding with the Konkani language and culture.
Under the banner of Kanara Cultural Association (KCA) of Delhi, a well-attended celebration was organised in the Edmund Rice Hall, next to Delhi's Sacred Heart Cathedral.
The festal concelebrated Holy Mass was presided over by the former Archdiocesan Administrator, Fr. Victor D'Souza and the executive secretary of the CBCI Commission for Social Communications Fr Henry D'Souza preached the homily.
About 40 colourfully dressed children offered flowers to Mother Mary while the hymn "Moriek Hogolsian" resounded in the entire hall.
The recently made Konkani film PADRI, produced by Raymond Quadros was screened to the much-appreciation of the audience.
During the felicitation function, the Union Minister Oscar Fernandes was felicitated on the occasion of his silver jubilee. The producer of the PADRI film was recognised for his great contribution to Konkani language and culture. Prof. Valerian Rodrgues of Jawaharlal Nehru University, Vice President - Projects of ITC Group Allwyn Noronha, Executive Director of
Indo-Global Social Service Society- Gracian Vas were honoured for their outstanding contributions to society.
Noted singers Babita and Ronald enthralled the gathering with their traditional songs and music.
The programme climaxed with the receiveing of the new corn "Noven", specially brought from Mangalore. The sumptuous dinner included - "kori-kachpu, channe-tendli, beetroot-sprouted moong, sheet-dallicho saar" and "kesari baat." The Mangalorean cuisine was much appreciated by all the Kanarites.
"KCA was founded in 1966 and register as an association in 1992. It has grown in size and stature," said the association's dynamic President Martin Pinto, who laboured hard to organise the event.
Hon. Secretary, Wilfred D'Souza thanked one and all for their active participation and support.
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