Pics by : Robin Machado, Sharjah
Report by : Louis Dante, Dubai

Dubai, Dec 6: The  parishioners  of St. Francis Xavier`s Church Udyavara-Udupi, spread all over the United Arab Emirates  and united  as 'UDYAVARITES'  along with their families, friends and well wishers over 300 in number celebrated the  annual UDYAVAR VODLEM FEST  on 4th December, 2009 at the Marhaba Banquet Hall, Dubai Grand Hotel, Al Ghusais.

It was a day to meet, greet and celebrate the customary way, much talked about VODLEM FEST as celebrated back home in Udyavar parish for children and elders alike with lots of entertainment and activities to be happy and feel at home. 

Fr. Freddy, priest taking care of the spiritual needs of the Konkani community at St. Mary`s Catholic Church in Dubai graced the occasion.  The festivities began with Gospel reading, Hymn for Patron St. Francis Xavier and prayer.

The festivities were well coordinated and conducted by well known Master of Ceremony Mr. Roshan D`Silva of Vamanjoor-Mangalore who made the memories of Udyavar parish and native land come alive and feel nostalgic for every one present. KENNY the singer of “PEDROS”, Claridge Hotel – Deira, was ready with the all time hit Konkani songs which everyone liked and sang along.

Gentle little children Carol & Florence welcomed everyone with a devotional welcome dance, Cute little Natasha regaled all with a chirpy solo dance. There was dance by Aviola & Sweeny and group dance by Claire & friends.

Vivian D`silva the President of “Udyavarites” placed an appeal to all present members and guests to support the efforts the forum take up from time to time as need arises. Talents, time and united effort is the need of the hour to be effective and to be contributing meaningfully to the cause of Udyavarites. He also noted that the recently started blog http://www.udyavarites.blogspot.com/ is open to all the Udyavarites to participate.  

A prominent member of the forum Mrs. Ceceilia D`sa  in coordination with Donald Machado with the graceful assistance of little children welcomed  and honoured  the guests, well wishers, benefactors and sponsors with flowers.

This day was a special occasion to honour a very well known personality in the Konkani community in Dubai and a senior Udyavarite  who toils tirelessly in the service of the church time in and time out serving around the altar Edwin Mathais. Gilbert, Donald and Jerry Pereira did the honours.
Laughter is the best medicine was proved right and exercises many more muscles for people in the gulf  who need much more in times like this was in abundant supply  with the rib tickling SKITS by Gilbert and presented by Donnie, Jeffrey, Joachim, Gilbert and Vinita.

Sumptuous meal from ‘Dhaba’ at the Grand Hotel provided by Valerian Lobo the F & B Manager-Grand Hotel  left every one licking the fingers and asking for more.

The month of December and Udyavar Feast time sets in the festive mood for Christmas.  Santa Claus (Christmas Papa)  was seen dancing with little children on stage and then distributing gifts to all children out of his goody bag.

Carona D`souza thanked the guests, well wishers and sponsors who contributed to the cause of Udyavarites by coming, participating in the activities and offering their precious time and in kind.

There were many fun-filled activities i.e, games, spot quiz- prizes, Housie etc.. The brand  KOMBO SODTI of Udyavar fame was a star attraction. Clarence was picked the proud owner of the prized KOMBO in the evening. There were prizes on entry tickets on annual Udyavarites membership. The hall was packed till the end and most of them winning lots of prizes. The festivities came to an end with Baila Dance to the LIVE MUSIC  of  KENNY.

• Photo Album - Click Here