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Dubai, Jan 30: The day-long Konkani talent contest organized as part of the decennial celebrations of Daiji Dubai Konkani writers’ forum saw non-stop entertainment at the Indian Consulate Auditorium on Friday January 30.
Nine groups from around the UAE competed enthusiastically, with ‘Famad Pernal’ headed by Donald Correa emerging winners and taking home the Dhs 3,000 prize money, a trophy, and a certificate.
Their presentation sent a clear message emphasizing the need for unity without bowing to the political ploys aimed at dividing people in the name of language, religion, caste, and creed. The 20-minute show had its share of music, dance, and meaning, with Dony Correa playing the role of a narrator.
‘Emirates Pangalites’, a spirited team who performed a splendid Yakshagana with real costumes was no less than professional Yakshagana artistes back home. The troupe led by Clavin D’Souza presented a variety of songs, dance, and drama during their time on stage and took the second position.
‘Pamboorians’, UAE, bagged third prize with their presentation of a traditional Konkani wedding interspersed with humour, drama, song, and dance. Ashok Menezes led the team.
The six other teams also did not lack in talent and utilized the opportunity to display their skills before the eager audience. Five individuals won appreciation awards for their outstanding performances.
Ashley Alva from ‘Pamboorians’, Linda D’Souza from ‘Konkan Stars’, Deeksha D’Mello from ‘Emirates Pangalites’, Elvin Gomes from ‘Famad Pernal’, and Wilfred D’Souza from Wolf Productions, Abu Dhabi, were the five.
The entire event was supervised and judged by three distinguished Konkani achievers who came here all the way from other Gulf countries. Eddie Sequeira from Doha, Lancy Pinto Nayak from Kuwait, and Clarence Kaikamba from Muscat left no room for controversies with their excellent judgement.
The event was inaugurated at 10.00 am by Joseph Mathias, main sponsor of Merit Freight Systems, Lynn Madtha and Liani Madtha of Integrated Freight & Logistic LLC, Daiji Dubai convener Hemacharya, programme co-ordinator Dayan D’Souza, the three judges and compere for the day, Walter Nandalike.
Talented singers from the UAE Rony Byndoor, Lancy Noronha, Shyna Noronha, Joseph Mathias, Reena, Maria Lourds (Goan singers), Asha Fernandes, and Vijesh Peris kept the audience captive during the intervals with their melodious songs. James Fernandes and his team provided music for the show.
During the course of the day, the judges, sponsors, and contributors, were felicitated on behalf of Daiji Dubai for their support to the event.
Four key contributors of Daijiworld.com from the UAE—Oswald D’Souza, Sujay Bendur, Ramcy Fernandes, and Naveen Frank—were also honoured for their selfless support. Frank Fernandes of Mosaco Shipping presented them flower bouquets.
Joseph Mathias distributed the prizes to ‘Famad Pernal’, while Mohan George of Integrated Freight presented the prizes to ‘Emirates Pangalites’ and Mark Denis D’Souza of Fortuna Engineering awarded the prizes to ‘Pamboorians’
Dayan D’Souza introduced leaders of all nine participating troupes, and they were presented mementos by Michal D’Souza of Oasis Court. Dayan also talked about the various events organized by Daiji Dubai in its decennial year, which began in June 2008.
Hemacharya lauded the support of the sponsors and the Konkani audience, while also appreciating Dayan D’Souza for his untiring dedication in making the show a gand success.
The auditorium was filled to capacity right from the beginning of the show and many Konkani enthusiasts had to go back disappointed as the day progressed.