Media Release
Sydney, Aug 29: Konkani Association of Australia, recently, held its flagship programme 'Amgel Utsav'at the Quakers Hill Community Centre. The day-long event celebrated Konkani culture, language and tradition.
The day was reminiscent of celebrations on the Konkan coast from Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka to Kerala where Banana and mango leaves decorate the door. Members were welcomed with a hearty breakfast of Idli Vada Chutney, Kesari Baath, Masala Chai and Panak.
The programme commenced with chanting an invocation to Lord Ganesha. The festival of Sutta Punnav, the annual sacred thread changing ceremony was explained. Sacred threads blessed by priest in Mangaluru were offered to the men. The Chudi Puja ceremony was performed with much gusto. This is a traditional social and religious function performed by married ladies during the month of Shravan by offering small corsages to sacred Tulsi, family altar and finally to each other.
Among the day’s activities were a fusion dance, fancy dress, humorous Konkani take on music, rendition of Goenkarponn a song from Goa that celebrates Konkani roots, and Amhi Konkani a trivia quiz game based on Konkani land, temples, traditions and festivals.
A sumptuous lunch gave people an opportunity to enjoy traditional food while catching up with old friends and making new ones.
Other occasions held by the association this year included Seniors Day, held at the Migrant Resource Centre, Parramatta, a picnic at Fagan Park, Sarvajanic Satyanarayana Puja in Carlingford, and a Red Cross Blood Donation Drive in Parramatta.
Diwali Dhamaka and AGM will be held on November 4 at Quakers Hill.
About KAA
The Konkani Association of Australia was established in March 2011 in Sydney, Australia. KAA aims to provide support to migrants, seniors, youth and families in the Konkani community and help assimilate them into the general Australian community. It serves as a forum for social networking and developing leadership skills, teamwork and self-confidence among members while keeping Konkani language and culture alive. A quarterly magazine and Facebook page support the cause.
To become a member or find out more contact kenquiries@gmail.com or visit the website www.konkani.org.au.