Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (RJP)
Mangaluru, Mar 22: It was a visual treat to watch one of the greatest dramas ever to be staged on Mangaluru soil. The entire St Agnes Special ground was packed with thousands of people as the mega religious drama ‘Somiya Tum Khaim Vethai' was staged on Sunday, March 22 evening in the city by United Friends Bejai as part of its silver jubilee celebrations.
The story of the drama was based on the life of St Peter after he was chosen as disciple of Jesus and his death after experiencing persecution in Rome. St Peter was the first pope of the Catholic church and one of the greatest disciples of Jesus who became a martyr.
Fr Rony Serrao from St Joseph’s Seminary penned the script of the drama as well as its lyrics. Lively and refreshing music was created by Joel Pereira. The efforts of renowned director Dolla (Adolphus Cutinha) and assistant director Claude D’Souza are praiseworthy as they virtually transported the spectators to the olden Roman empire.
As many as 12 special stages were used for this mega play in which more than hundred artistes performed. The role of the protagonist St Peter was superbly played by Aloysius D'Souza and antagonist emperor Nero's role was beautifully portrayed by Jossy Rego. The stage setting, which was one of the main highlights of the drama, was done by Alwyn Bajal. Giriappa Idya was the makeup manager. Chris Electronics and Arun Electricals provided sounds and lights respectively, which further accentuated the aura of the play.
The great fire of Rome city, feeding of faithful Christians to the hungry lions in enclosures, resurrection of Jesus, fight of commander Marcus with bear, martyrdom of St Peter with his hanging on an inverted cross were some of the main attractions of the drama.
Earlier in the evening, a stage programme was held, presided over by Dr Henry D'Souza, bishop of Bellary. Fr Ajith Menezes from St Joseph's Engineering College, Fr Wilson D'Souza from Bejai parish, Fr Antony Serrao from Bendore parish, Walter Nandalike, founder of Daijiworld, Roy Castelino, president of Konkani Sahitya Academy, M P Noronha, advocate and secretary of Mangaluru diocese, C J Lobo, convenor of United Friends Bejai silver jubilee committee along with president and secretary of United Friends were present on the dais.
Addressing the gathering, Fr Ajith Menezes said, "I am pleased to see such a big crowd here . People want to see more of plays which instill faith in them."
Walter Nandalike said, "This drama is apt for Lenten season. The persecution of early Christians is repeated these days albeit on a smaller scale. But it needs to be rooted out before it grows wider. I appreciate the efforts United Friends have put in to stage this drama."
Roy Castelino said, "I am extremely happy to see this mega drama being staged in Konkani. People in thousands have come to witness this."
Dr Henry D'Souza, bishop of Ballary said, "Such dramas should teach us to choose between evil and good. That is the whole purpose of religious dramas. The current generation should think about building a better next generation with better moral values. God does not like a society without moral values. Amassing wealth only should not be the sole purpose of life. I am happy to be part of this crowd today."
C J Lobo welcomed. Nirmal D'Souza proposed the vote of thanks. Sheldon Crasta compered the programme.
The religious fervour stayed high throughout the play. Jesus with cross on his shoulder appearing to St Peter, who was running away from Rome, was the turning point of the story. St Peter telling his followers, 'Persecution and pain are part of faithful life on this earth. But you will see a sorrowless life in heaven after death' was the philosophical message rendered in the drama.