Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (RJP)
Mangaluru, Dec 26: Christmas joy doubled on the occasion of the 10th anniversary celebrations of Omzoorche Dive, an association of Omzoor parishioners residing in the UAE, at Omzoor Church Grounds, Omzoor, Meramajalu on Sunday, December 25. The celebrations also included a special 105th Melwyn Peris Nite after the stage function.
The programme ‘Dashamanotsav Dabazo’ was presided over by Fr James D’Souza, the parish priest of Holy Family Church, Omzoor. State minister for food and civil supplies U T Khader was the chief guest.
NRI entrepreneurs James Mendonca, Leo Rodrigues and Lawrence D’Souza, Daijiworld founder Walter Nandalike, Fr Jerald Lobo from Monte Mariano Friary Farangipet, Sr Vinitha D’Souza from St Charles Borromeo Convent, Omzoor, Melwyn Braggs, vice-president of Omzoor parish pastoral council graced the occasion as guests of honour.
NRI entrepreneurs and philanthropists Felix Lobo from Doha Qatar, Joseph Mathias from Dubai and Pius Lancy D’Souza from Dubai (represented by Preethi D’Souza) were felicitated for their special contribution to society by Omzoorche Dive during the function.
Acknowledging the honour, Felix Lobo said that he was a simple person and did only what he could. He remembered his association with Omzoor from age six though he hailed from distant Vittal.
Joseph Mathias appreciated the work done by Omzoorche Dive to the poor and explained how he derived happiness by sharing his wealth with others. He called upon the people to be good to one another and walk on the path of Jesus.
U T Khader said, "I know that we are living in an 'instant' world. With minimum efforts, people want fast result. They are disturbed at every small setback. But do you know how much Jesus suffered for the mankind? Has anybody done so much for society? There is no place on earth which is without tension. Let us be good to the society and share our grievances with the marginalised people. This will solve our problems as well as that of theirs."
Walter Nandalike appreciated the way a group of people from a small village made such a big difference to the society without expecting anything in return. He asked others to emulate Omzoorche Dive.
James Mendonca and Leo Rodrigues wished well for Omzoorche Dive on the occasion. A video message from Fr Robert Lasrado from St Mary’s Church Dubai, who is also from Omzoor, was played.
Fr James D’Souza thanked all the members of Omzoorche Dive who silently made a very big difference to the people of parish, more recently that of donating sound system to the Church.
The latest edition of 'Omzoorchi Panam' magazine edited by Santhu Omzoor was released on the occasion.
‘Ye Mojya Bangara’ music CD by Wilfy and Royston was also released.
Ace master of ceremony Roshan D’Silva from Dubai compered the celebrations part of the event.
After the stage function, Melwyn Peris entertained the gathering with his musical show filled with evergreen songs.
Melwyn Peris, Rony Crasta, Robin Sequeira, Anitha D’Souza, Shilpa Cutinha, Zina Pereira, Nester Peris and Nihal Tauro rendered their voices to the songs penned and tuned by Melwyn Peris. 'Sangeeth Guru' Joel Pereira provided the music. A new song on demonetisation was presented by Melwyn Peris.
The dazzling dances for some of the catchy songs were performed by Naach Sobhann.
Comedy skits were enacted by Jerry Rasquinha and his troupe which included Melwyn Peris, Oswald Sequeira and Robin Pereira.
Jerry Rasquinha compered the musical show part of the event.
Felix Lobo from Qatar Meta Coats was the main sponsor and Lancy D’Souza from Al Ain was the event sponsor. Daijiworld was the media partner for this event.
Melwyn Peris and Gulf Voice of Mangalore (GVOM) winner Robin Sequeira were felicitated at the end of the show.
Steven D'Souza and Mevina Vas, president and secretary of Omzoorche Dive, respectively, with Arthur D’Souza, Arthur Pereira and all the past office-bearers and members, were present. A huge crowd witnessed the celebrations.