Dubai, Apr 18: Over 1500 Konkani enthusiasts, not only from the UAE but even representing Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Doha, Mumbai, Bangalore and other places witnessed one of the best quality Konkani musical and comedy events organized by Daiji Dubai - Konkani writers' forum in the UAE, to mark their 10th anniversary.
The much awaited, a part of the Decennial celebrations of Daiji Dubai got off to a splendid start at the Sheikh Rashid Auditorium on the evening of Friday, 17 April 2009 at Dubai.
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Walter Nandalike introduced the proceedings of the programme. He also welcomed and introduced the chief guest of the day Grace Pinto , Managing Director of Ryan International School. She was gracefully led on to the dais.
Felix Lobo, benefactor and well wisher based in Doha, Joseph Mathias of Merit Freight Systems, Michael DSouza of Oasis Court Hotel were also called on to the dais.
The event was formally declared open by the distinguished guests.
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Speaking on the occasion, Grace Pinto invoked the blessing of the Lord on all those present. She congratulated the whole Daiji Dubai forum for the achievements during the last ten years. She highlighted the fact that although we are Poojaris, Shettys, D’Souzas', we are all bound by being Mangaloreans first.
It was immediately followed by the award ceremony.
Dolphy Cascia, konkani writer and journalist was awarded with the DAIJI DUBAI -2009 award for his relentless service towards Konkani language. He received a citation, memento and a cash award of Rs 50,000 .
In a short speech, Dolphy acknowledged the help of his family and friends who stood by him all these years . He thanked everyone for the award given to him.
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The DAIJI DUBAI YOUTH AWARD 2009 was presented to Nellu Permannur. He was chosen for his contribution towards Konkani Drama. He was presented with a memento and a cash award of Rs 15,000.
As a token of thanks and appreciation, the main sponsors of the event Joseph Mathias of Merit Freight Systems and Michael D’ Souza of Oasis Court Hotels were honored with a memento each.
Daijiworld Weekly, the newly launched print weekly was formally released by Sudhir Shetty, COO of UAE Exchange . Also present with him on the stage were Leo Rodrigues, Sarvotham Shetty, Sashi Shetty, C.R Shetty, Anil Rego and Siraj Ahmed .
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The stage displayed a beautiful blend of people from all religions and languages coming together as one big Mangalorean family.
Speaking on the occasion, Sudhir Shetty said he was honored to release the new venture Daijiworld Weekly. He said that the print media is a powerful tool because it can easily reach the ordinary masses. He urged DaijiWorld to be responsible in their venture and portray only the truth as that is the only thing that will prevail. he said.
Rons Bantwal of Mumbai and ace photographer of daijiworld.com Dayanand Kukkaje of Mangalore were also honored for their respective continuous contributions.
The variety entertainment that everybody was eagerly waiting, immediately got underway.
Adrian Gomes made the first move with his band. With Anish on the lead guitar, Michael on the base, Wilfred on the drums and Adrian himself on the keyboard and the trumpet, they collectively came together to give what turned out to be a beautiful music display for the whole evening.
Much to the amazement of the audience, Kenny Zuzarte, a multi-faceted artiste came on to the stage dressed as London Mary, a fisher woman and other female roles.
It was then a train of exciting entertainment sequences comprising of comic skits, dance, and song.
The audience was tickled by the comic performances of the duo Jerry and Joseph Pinto (Duje) and Dayan, Pradeep and Sunita, and the Daiji Rang Mandir team, Santhosh, Clevin, Nellu Permannur and Allwyn Viegas.
Ocean kids, a young and vibrant dance team, led by Vinod Sequiera , gave scintillating dance performances throughout the evening.
Melodious Goan and Mangalorean Konkani tunes were beautifully sung by eminent Konkani singers Vinay Lewis, Ronnie Dcunha, Anita Samson, Donnie Correa , Maria and Asha Fernandes.
All the main sponsors, co sponsors , benefactors and well wishers were recognized and thanked for their overwhelming support to daijiworld.
Robinson D'Souza, retired Principal Secretary, Legislature, Karnataka Government, released a Konkani book “ LHAARAM LOJELIM ” written by Robert Fernandes, Udayar. The book has been published by Kavita Trust.
Various other Daijiworld contributors from various parts of the UAE the Middle East and India were honored on the occasion.
Representatives from various organisations who have come from other gulf countries, Lawrence Pinto (Kuwait), Ronald F D'Souza (Bahrain), Stany Fernandes and Dolly Sequeira (Oman), Charles Gomes (Bangalore) were also honoured by Daiji Dubai.
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A special memento was presented to Dayan D'Souza by Stany Fernandes and Dolly Sequeira on behalf of all members of MCCP Muscat .
Curtains fell on one of Daiji Dubai’s most successful event, enjoyed by one and all.
The programme was compered by Walter Nandalike ably assisted by Olinda D'Souza.