Daijiworld News Network

Fujairah, June 2: Fujairah holds an unique position in the UAE. It is the only emirate that lies on the eastern  side of the UAE, along the Gulf of Oman, while all the six other emirates are along the Arabian Gulf. Various Inidian communities along with other nationalities reside here. Mangaloreans though residing here for many years, made a mark  last year when they formed 'Canara Catholics Fujairah' with the support and involvement of good number of Mangaloreans spread all around.

The association which has helped the poor back home and in the UAE, has organized a couple of social events during the year. It has now completed its first successful year under the able leadership of Melwyn Vaz, an enthusiastic community leader from Siddakatte of Moodubidri Varado, who has been residing in Fujairah for the last 15 years.

"It was not easy to start an association here, but with the support from like-minded Mangaloreans, specially solid back-up from behind the screen from Alfred D`Souza, we have today successfully completed a year and we will go for many years by the grace of the God...,' said Melwyn prior to the anniversary celebration programme in Fujairah, while he spoke to daijiworld correspondent.

At 1 pm the celebration began with the initial briefing by Sachin D`Souza, compere from Dubai.

Francis Fernandes Cascia, noted dramatist and known as King of Comedy in the theatrical field was the chief guest along with the parish priest of Fujairah Fr Michael Cardoza.

Melwyn Vaz welcomed the gathering in his inaugural speech and also introduced guests to the gathering.

To mark the anniversary, Fr Michael along with Francis Cascia cut the cake and shared the joy of celebration.

Walter Nandalike, editor-in-chief of daijiworld.com, raised the toast and hailed the achievement of Canara Catholics in the short span of a year. He congratulated the team on their forming a much-needed organization of this kind in Fujairah.

Well-known dramatist and community man Francis Fernandes Cascia was honuored for his association with the Mangaloreans in Fujairah and for his contribution to Konkani language and society in general. Fr Michael presented a shawl and Melwyn Vaz presented a memento to him.

Francis, in his thanksgiving speech, remembered his association with Alfred and thanked the association and community.

Sponsors of the event were felicitated for their contribution. Andrea D`Souza read out the sponsors' name. Also present during the programme were Dayan D`Souza, founder-convener of Daijidubai writers forum, Melvyn Rodrigues, a well-known Konkani poet and Walter Nandalike of Daijiworld.com. They were felicitated for their memorable presence.

The rest of the programme was with full of fun and entertainment. The dance, spot prizes and various games kept the young and old people among the gathering in the spirit.

Sachin D`Souza, the compere, kept the crowd moving until end.

A game of tombola by Vincy,  raffle draw and baila added more spice to the event.