Pics: Joshwa D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (DV)
Mangaluru, Dec 2: St Mary's Konkan Community (SMKC) Dubai is all set to celebrate its 15th anniversary with 'Grand Konkan Showers' extravaganza on Sunday December 6 at St Agnes Special School Grounds, Bendore.
Announcing this at a press meet here on Wednesday December 2, local co-ordinator of SMKC and ace compere Leslie Rego said, "The event will comprise spectacular performances. The 264th edition of the ever-popular Konkani musical 'Wilfy Nite' will be the highlight of the event. Bishop of Mangaluru, Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza, who has been the guiding spirit of SMKC will preside over the celebrations. Besides him, many other distinguished personalities will be present. SMKC Dubai is expecting a large audience for the celebration. Entry is free and free transport has been arranged to drop off the audience at major points within the city."
The proceeds from this event will be utilized for the following projects:
- For the poorest of the poor children where the diocese of Mangaluru has set up a project.
- To top up 'SMKC Dubai Education Trust Fund' at Bishop's House, Mangaluru, to empower underprivileged families of rural areas by educating deserving candidates in professions such as engineering, medicine and nursing.
- To top up 'SMKC Dubai Health Care Fund' at St Anne's Friary, Mangaluru, to provide medical assistance for very low income families.
Wilfy Nite troupe will enthrall and mesmerize the crowd with vibrant hit numbers such as 'Roopa Roopa' 'Nav moogele Panduranga', 'Mangaluru Komblaee Ahmee' along with other popular peppy dance songs under the direction of Pappan/Joswin with 14 instrumentalists. Thumping Baila medley will follow towards the end of the evening with interactive participation from the crowd under the glittering night sky.
An attractive stage is being set up with the latest lighting technology along with a sound system of 40,000 watts. Ocean Kids, finalists of 'India's Got Talent' will brighten up the stage with their scintillating dance performances. Standup comedy by 'MeMoRi' and Dolla will add to the evening's entertainment.
Bus transport will be arranged to various city points at the end of the show around 9.30 pm. The entire show will be compered by popular host Leslie Rego, who has travelled globally along with the Wilfy Nite troupe. A felicitation ceremony will be conducted by the humorous C G Sequeira (C G S Taccode).
On the occasion three eminent dignitaries of the Konkani community will be conferred the 'SMKC Prashasti - 2015' for their contribution to Konkani culture, literature and heritage through their works of philanthropy, brain and brawn. "Indeed, while thanking other generous contributors, saluting other successful business people and Konkan artistes, SMKC Dubai core committee has chosen three Konkan stars (Thaarey) as awardees. They are Martin J Aranha, managing director/CEO of Globelink West Star Shipping LLC, Dubai, Joseph Mathais, managing director of Merit Freight Systems Co LLC & Harbour Shipping Company (LLC), and Walter Nandalike, founder of Daijiworld Group of Media.
"These dignitaries have joined hands with SMKC mission in a brighter way for over 15 years to 'wipe a tear and to bring a smile' on many forlorn faces back home and in the United Arab Emirates,"
Win galore gifts: Jet Airways international air ticket between UAE (Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah) and India, watches, perfumes, electronic items and gift hampers will be up for grabs in the raffle draw at the venue. Raffle draw tickets may be obtained from St Anne's Friary, major church compounds and at the venue. Name and mobile number of the person needs to be jotted down on the raffle ticket and slipped through the box. The winner will be contacted if the name is drawn up as the lucky winner.
St Mary's Konkan Community (SMKC) Dubai's 15th anniversary celebration will be a promising and magical evening for all to witness. All are cordially invited to participate along with family and friends. Gates will open at 4.30 pm and entry is free. Seating will be on first-come-first-serve basis.
Noel Mascarenhas, SMKC founder president, Fr Cyprian D'Souza, C G S Taccode, Vishwas Rebimbus were present at the press meet.