Media Release
Riyadh, May 20: May 15 was an auspicious day for the Konkan Ghar Riyadh (KGR) as it organized 'Sambhram 2015' its annual cultural event. It is the first such mega event organized by KGR.
The day started off with a brief formal programme. Edmond Lewis Sastan, master of ceremony for the formal programme started with an introduction elaborating the purpose of KGR. Eric D'sa Pangla, welcomed the gathering. Ivan Vas Vamanjoor, led a short prayer befitting the occasion. All the KGR members were invited to the stage, to traditionally inaugurate the 'Sambhram 2015' by lighting the lamp. KGR anthem 'Mathi sandun ailyav ami' sung by KGR members.
It was time for the prize distribution ceremony for the winners of the annual sports day held by KGR. The championship trophy was conquered by Green House for emerging as winners, while Red House and Yellow House jointly collected the runners up trophy.
Savitha Arannah Shirva, the creative member of the association presented the report that comprised KGR’s activities and accomplishments. Roland D'souza Kalmadi recited the prayer before the meals. A delicious meal was prepared and served by Stanly Cardoza, Pangla and his team.
After the sumptuous meal, it was time for mega cultural event. The cultural event commenced with our age old Mangalurian tradition 'Vojen' as representatives from all the Mangalurian groups present at the event, brought various items to the stage which was followed by a Mangalurian folk dance.
Thereafter, there were series of dances, songs and skits that kept the crowd on their toes as they enjoyed 'Sambhram 2015' to the utmost. It started with a welcome-dance to the song 'Saglya Shrusticha ye Rachnara', by KGR teens which was choreographed by Jennifer D'sa Mangaluru. It was followed by the kids dance 'Aashiyan', children remix dance and fusion dance. These dances were choreographed by Eden D'sa Pangla. KGR Ladies exhibited their dance talent to the song “Dariya Kushin” that was choreographed by Celine Mascarenhas Mukkamar. Meghariya performed semi classical dance 'Mere Dolna Sun'.
On the occasion, 'Ek Geet' an album of Kevin Misquith, a popular name in the konkani music world, was released in a unique way by bringing the album in the 'Pallaki' to the stage. Konkan Ghar Riyadh (KGR) are the co-sponsors of the album and one of its members, Eden D’sa, gifted her voice for one of the beautiful songs in the album 'Raat Moni Moni'. As she performed her song, everyone gathered in the occasion were spellbound to hear her magnetic voice.
A delectable array of songs by Venisha Saldana, Manoj Mascarenhas, Lancy Moras and Shallet D’silva quenched the music appetite of the audience. SKAR group exhibited their talent by performing a group dance, group song and a solo dance 'Baratha natiyam' performed by Michelle Mascarenhas which was well applauded by the crowd.
Konkani comedy skit 'Fhar Kone Marlo' and Kannada comedy skit 'Halli Meshtru' enacted by KGR youth made the entire atmosphere burst with laughter. Adding to this was a comedy dance 'Doddaverella Janaralla' was well appreciated by the gathering.
‘Mime act’ on the theme 'mobile' presented by KGR youth was an awesome act which made the audience ask for more. 'Jade Kolaata' by KGR ladies with a unique style was a special attraction to the event which received a standing ovation.
Managalurian age old culture was rejuvenated when 'Gumta song' was presented by Edmond Lewis and group.
Amitha Royston Prabhu Bijai conducted few spot games amid the cultural program and prizes were distributed to the winners. Nagraj Bajal, a multi-talented person, was felicitated on the occasion in recognition of his excellent contribution towards the association and the token of appreciation was presented by Eric and Anitha D’sa.
Kevin Nazareth was felicitated for his continuous outstanding support to the association. Sponsors of the program were honored with flower bouquets. There was a raffle draw and the prices were given to the winners.
Anita D’sa proposed the vote of thanks and thanked all the sponsors, supporters and well-wishers who made this event a grand success. Eden D’sa and Uday Rodrigues Mangaluru, compered the programme introducing each performance in an inimitable style in Konkani dialect and regaled the gathering.
The programme concluded with a Konkani non stop Baila, to which the audience tapped their feet and rocked the stage.
No doubt, Konkani speaking crowd in Riyadh had a memorable day and were privileged to witness the first ever cultural extravaganza organized by KGR that showcased the Konkani language, culture and traditions of Mangaluru.