Tel Aviv: Konkans in Israel honour Eric Ozario at Independence Day Celebrations
Pics: William Lopez Coorg
Report by Praveen Lobo, Omazoor
Daijiworld Media Network – Tel Aviv (SP)
Tel Aviv, Aug 17: Konkan Catholic Sanghatan (KCS), Israel organized a grand 63rd Indian Independence Day celebration on Saturday Aug 15, 2009, on behalf of the Konkani community of Israel.
The grand celebrations began with a festive mass at 9 am at St Anthony Church, Yafo, in which more than 400 people participated. Fr Moshe and Fr Diaz from Colombia concelebrated.
In the evening, the celebrations turned into a festive mood, at Duhl Centre, Tel-Aviv, where ‘Mera Bharath Mahan’, a musical extravaganza unfolded to a house full audience of over 800 members of the community.
Navtej Saran, the Indian Ambassador to the state of Israel, inaugurated and presided. He also honoured Vishwa Konkani Kala Ratn, Eric Ozario, on behalf of KCS and the Indian community.
Praveen Pereira Taccode, president of KCS, welcomed the gathering. Arun D’souza Omzoor, secretary, proposed vote of thanks.
‘Masti’, an album produced by Melwyn Furtado, organizer of KCS, was released by Eric Ozario on this occasion.
Melwyn Furtado, KCS organizer, Wilfred Mascarenhas, cultural secretary and Joyce Ozario were the others present on the dais at the formal function.
The show began with a duet by Baab Eric and Bai Joyce, who also rendered three other Konkani songs, to the elation of the packed house. Hindi songs were rendered by ‘Reshma’ music troupe.
Attractive dance items were presented by Syon, Rachel and group John, Wilma and group, Praveen Aranha and group and Rajesh D’souza, and Honnavara friends, all of whom are the members of the local community.
Comedy King Wilfred Mascarenhas and his talented team regaled the audiences with their rib-tickling comedy. Stage décor was tastefully done by Sunil Rodrigues and friends. The entire programme was ably compered by Roshan Monteiro, Omzoor.
In a nutshell, it was indeed a rare and enjoyable evening for all those who attended it.