Media Release
Mangaluru, May 18: “The melody of our mother tongue, the deepest root of our birthplace, and the spirit of Konkani heritage kindle and exalt the soul of our identity,” said Michael D’Souza, an NRI philanthropist, businessman, and social worker. He was speaking as the chief guest at the 290th Wilfy Nite organised by Abhaya Friends Trust, which commenced on a glittering note at St Agnes College Indoor Auditorium on the evening of Sunday May 17.
Addressing Konkani music lovers, he urged the community to actively participate in and encourage artistes contributing to the cause of Konkani music and literature.
The musical extravaganza was not merely a celebration of music and melody, but also an event dedicated to a noble cause, weaving together humanitarian initiatives in the fields of healthcare, education, and housing.
The stage programme began with a prayer song invoking God’s blessings, led by Fr Denis D’Sa. Among those present on the dais were Fr J B Saldanha, Fr Maxim Dsouza, Walter Nandalike – founder and managing director of Daijiworld media, Anil Lobo - MCC Bank chairman, Wilson Fernandes, Meena Rebimbus, Vishwas Rebimbus, Charleen Rebimbus, Nirmal D’Souza, and Vinod D’Souza. Abhaya Friends Trust president Nirmal D’Souza welcomed the gathering, while vice president Olwin Miranda delivered the vote of thanks. The dignitaries were escorted by president Nirmal D’Souza and founder trustee Vinod D’Souza.
With a perfect blend of entertainment and compassion, the evening reflected the spirit of service and cultural pride, making the 290th Wilfy Nite a memorable celebration with a meaningful purpose. More than 1,200 enthusiastic audience members filled the venue, reflecting the Konkani community’s deep love for the language and its enduring passion for music and culture, along with the younger generation’s support for the Rebimbus family.
The show was creatively developed around a chat show titled ‘Hench Munshya Sangeeth’, anchored by Manoj Fernandes. Veteran anchor Eddie Sequeira appeared as the grandfather figure, while Dixon Machado represented the aspirations of Gen Z. Their witty interaction and vibrant presence set the perfect tone for the musical spectacle. The formal stage programme was compered by Alwyn Tauro.
The programme commenced with the Abhaya Friends presentation on stage, followed by the rendition of the Abhaya Anthem. The Gold and Emerald sponsors were honoured during the occasion, and special recognition was given to Vinod D’Souza, Nirmal D’Souza, and Vishwas Rebimbus for securing the highest sponsorship collection.
Music lovers nostalgically relived the golden era of Konkani melodies as senior artistes rendered evergreen songs with refreshing rhythm and energy. Renowned singers Ivan Sequeira, Babitha D’Sa, and Meena Rebimbus, along with musicians Pappan and Joswin, captivated the audience with their soulful performances, earning thunderous applause from the packed auditorium.
The younger generation of artistes, including Nathan Figueira, Paloma Rodrigues, Prerana Fronteiro, Bindu Cutinha, Jason, Gavin, Munita Viegas Rao, Ashwin D’Costa, and Roger Rebimbus, performed under the leadership of Vishwas Rebimbus.
A dazzling dance performance was presented by the team ‘Urban Groove’, while Abhaya Friends couples performed a lively group dance depicting the life of fisherfolk. Members of the Abhaya family also enacted a performance for the song ‘Bhikari’.
A lucky draw for the show tickets was conducted, during which two lucky winners were presented with gold coins.
The three-hour musical extravaganza offered non-stop entertainment and enthralled Konkani music lovers throughout the evening. The 290th Wilfy Nite, organised by Abhaya Friends Trust for a noble cause, truly emerged as a grand celebration of art, culture, and music that will be cherished for a long time to come.