Media Release

Nottingham, Apr 24: To commemorate the resurrection of Jesus, over 250 Mangalureans from all over the UK gathered at Bramcote Memorial Hall as one family in a joyful Easter celebration on April 9, an event organised by the Mangalorean United Konkani Association (MUKA) of Nottingham, UK.

The day began with a solemn mass celebrated in Konkani by Fr Feroz Fernandes and the beautiful altar was decorated by members of MUKA. In his homily, Fr Feroz Fernandes called upon the faithful to comprehend the importance of spirituality and strengthen our faith in Christ’s resurrection and his triumph over death.

The melodious choir led by Deepak Alvares was accompanied by talented voices of MUKA. The choir was boosted by MUKA’s budding musicians, Averil Alvares (violin), Erica D'Souza (flute), Alrica Sequeira, Sophia Lobo and Chrystle Mascarenhas (Keyboard).

All proceeds collected during the Eucharistic celebration will be donated to Humanity Trust Charity - Belman, who work relentlessly to provide shelter and economic support to the under-privileged families.

Thereafter, the much-awaited cultural programme hosted by Sachin Fernandes and Pritika Quadras began in earnest fervor and kept the crowd engaged throughout the program.

A graceful prayer dance was performed by Dorothy D’Souza, Carita Sequeira, Callista Sequeira, Daisy D’Souza, Jaylia D’Souza and Sophia Lobo.

The president of MUKA, Godfrey Sequeira welcomed the gathering for the ensuing grand celebration. Rev. Fr. Feroz was then escorted to the stage by MUKA vice president Shalini Pinto and was felicitated with a token of appreciation by MUKA treasurer Lydia Lewis. A Konkani book titled 'Novi Disha' authored by Monica Mathias was released at this occasion.

Next, the stage was set ablaze by the little champs of MUKA - Aiden, Callista, Carita, Vianca, Sophia, Daisy and Jaylia, who grooved to a fusion of English, Tamil and Bollywood songs, which was well choreographed by Jenifer Fernandes and Christina Sequeira. Adding to the program, a short skit in Konkani was played by versatile actors Vincent D’Souza, Anitha Alvares and Pius Rasquinha which made the audience laugh their guts out.

This was followed by a power packed fusion dance to Konkani, Kannada and Hindi songs by, Christina, Anitha, Maria, Lydia, Jenifer, Pritika, Prescilla, Chrystle, Fiona, Sachin, Deepak, John, Anson, Vincent, Naveen, Joy and Roy, well-choreographed by Jenifer and Christina.

The event comprised of a raffle draw conducted by Stany Sequeira and the lucky dip was picked by Godfrey Sequeira.

A sumptuous lunch with signature coastal delicacies prepared by members of MUKA left a totally satisfied feeling, with ‘vorn’ being the most loved item on the menu.

Afternoon festivities began with mesmerising song performances by Salvadore, Sachin, Deepak and Averil. There was yet another comedy act by John and Sunitha which kept the audience entertained and glued to their seats.

Next up was a dashing performance to Indian filmy songs by dancing stars of MUKA Jessica, Hailey, Jennifer, Freya, Sandrea, Erica, Alrica, Averil, Cristal, Jesvita, Rhea, Alroy, Aiden, Ethan, Aaron and Sohan, beautifully choreographed by Hailey, Jessica and Aaron.

The celebration spirits were kept up high by a comedy skit performed by Vinod and Wilson from KCA UK team.

The “Amchi Reet Amchi Rivaz” performance by the MUKA members was the main attraction of the event where more than 50 participants performed on stage with a variety of programmes depicting rich cultural heritage of Mangalore.

Finally, people put their luck to the test, while engaging in a quick game of housie conducted by Edmund D’Souza and Vincent D’Souza to which the crowd participated enthusiastically. The Vote of thanks was delivered by Pius Rasquinha.

The event concluded with the traditional 'Baila Blast' performed by Salvadore who carried the audience through famous Konkani hits which made everyone jump on their feet to the groovy music.

MUKA is thankful to all the sponsors of the event, participants and supporters for making the day a memorable one, special thanks to the members of KCA - Manchester, UK.