Media Release
Dubai, Oct 29: The 25th-anniversary celebration of Daiji Dubai, a forum for Konkani writers in the UAE, was held with grandeur and joy at the Movenpick Hotel Oud Metha, Dubai. This milestone event brought together members, supporters, and well-wishers from the Konkani community to honour Daiji Dubai’s remarkable legacy of preserving and promoting Konkani culture over the past quarter-century.
The memorable programme began with host Dony Correa warmly welcoming the audience and sharing heartfelt tributes to legendary figures in Konkani music and culture who have left an enduring legacy. He paid homage to icons such as Wilfy Rebimbus, Jerome D'Souza, Mick Max, Claude D'Souza, Victor Concessao, P H Pinto, Henry T D'Souza, Chris Perry, Alfred Rose, and Panchu Bantwal, highlighting their invaluable contributions to Konkani heritage. This tribute not only honoured these icons but also reminded the audience of the rich legacy they have left behind, inspiring future generations in the Konkani community.
Michael D'Souza took the stage with his family, including his wife, Flavia D'Souza, and son, Manu D'Souza, to receive the ‘Daiji Dubai Gulf Samaj Rathn Puraskar 2024.’ He was honoured with an honorary certificate, shawl, garland, memento, and a hand-painted sketch. In his address, Michael D'Souza expressed deep gratitude to the Almighty for enabling him to support the community and aid those in need. He spoke of his love for Konkani culture and his hope for its continued legacy. He thanked his mother for instilling in him strong values and encouraged everyone to honour their mothers and cherish their Konkani heritage.
The Daiji Dubai Gulf Samaj Rathn Puraskar 2024 was also awarded to Felix Lobo, the evening's second honouree. Although Lobo could not attend due to unforeseen circumstances, his daughter, Freeda Lobo, accepted the award on his behalf. She graciously received his honorary certificate, shawl, garland, memento, and a hand-painted sketch, acknowledging his significant contributions to the community.
Chief guest Walter Nandalike took the stage, commending the contributions of both honourees and highlighting the importance of preserving and celebrating Konkani culture. He expressed pride in being a founding member of Daiji Dubai, noting that the organization has achieved remarkable milestones in the past 25 years. He particularly appreciated the efforts of Dayan D'Souza, crediting his dedicated and selfless service for Daiji Dubai's successful journey.
The award ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, including Daijiworld Media Managing Director Walter Nandalike, along with Joseph Mathias, Dayan D'Souza Mukamar, Nelson Rodricks, and Fr Victor Fernandes. Their presence underscored the strong support for Daiji Dubai’s work in promoting Konkani culture and honouring those who have contributed to its growth over the past 25 years.
In commemoration of 25 years, Daiji Dubai unveiled a specially designed anniversary logo and a fridge magnet as keepsakes. The logo release, attended by Walter Nandalike, present convener Dayan D'Souza Mukamaar, and former conveners Robert Udyavar, Rony Byndoor, and Dinesh Correa, symbolizes Daiji Dubai’s enduring legacy and serves as a cherished reminder of the community's achievements.
The programme continued with the launch of the book 'Kimoo' by Stany Bela. The book release, led by senior writer Anthony Mendonca, Dayan D’Souza, Walter Nandalike, and Alwyn Pinto, celebrated Bela’s contributions to Konkani literature, emphasizing Daiji Dubai’s commitment to supporting and promoting Konkani writers and their works.
Sponsors were honoured by Walter Nandalike, Dayan D'Souza, and Fr Victor Fernandes, highlighting the vital role of sponsorship in supporting Daiji Dubai’s mission. The facilitators expressed heartfelt gratitude for the sponsors' steadfast support, which has been instrumental in sustaining Daiji’s initiatives and promoting Konkani culture.
The crowd enjoyed a selection of authentic compositions by legends, performed by talented artistes Jason Lobo, Sonal Agnes Monteiro, Sunil Monteiro, Rony Byndoor, Everleigh Mascarenhas and local talents such as Lydwin, Sabitha, Vinay, Jeevan, Baby Anaya D’Souza, and Dony Correa. Their powerful performances captivated the audience, guided by music director Sanjay Rodrigues, and supported by the musicians’ team comprising Floid Pereira, Shalilendra, Vincent Rodrigues and Ian Sachin Saldanha.
The event featured vibrant group dances by 'Naach Bindaas' and Natasha and Team, receiving warm applause and tokens of appreciation. The audience was also entertained by a hilarious skit by Melwyn Kalakul and his team, filling the venue with laughter.
Dony Correa served as an outstanding compere, guiding the programme with energy and skill. The event concluded with a lively Baila dance, a traditional dance that brought everyone together in a joyful celebration of Konkani culture and music, drawing the curtains on a memorable event.