DaijiWorld Media Network - Muscat

Sohar, Nov 20: Mangalore Balaga – Sohar, an association formed to bring all the coastal Karnataka expatriates living around Batinah Region, celebrated its 6th anniversary with  “Family get together and Fun sports” on 16th November 2010 at the Football ground near Sohar Safeer Center.

As announced by the executive committee the event turned out to be a grand success as there were as many as 500 people attended to witness this great event. The event began at 8.30 AM with a delicious breakfast with Mangalorean special Puri Baji with Sheera , Idli and Vada Sambar.  Soon after the breakfast Mr. Manjunath invited all the committee members and the guests for a formal inauguration of the event.  A prayer song was sung by the Balaga’s children. Mr. Krishnaprasad explained in detail, the achievements of the Balaga as he read out the annual report of 2009 -2010.

Naryana Kottian the outgoing President welcomed Richard Alwyn D’Souza who has been always a helping hand in the upbringing of Mangalore Balaga since its inception.  He also thanked all the committee members for the outstanding support that was rendered to him during his presidency.

Richard Alwyn D’souza expressed his happiness over the committee’s belief in him and promised to give his best possible leadership qualities for the Balaga’s success.  He also thanked Frank Lobo, known as Christopher Columbus of Sohar – the first Mangalorean to venture into Liwa region many years ago, who has been always the core supportive member in all the Balaga’s activities.

The Sports and fun events were inaugurated by lighting the “Diya” (Traditional Lamp)  by all the honored committee members. There were several exciting and traditional sports events which were specially tailored for the day. Events like Lagori , Slow Cycle race , Couples Double seat cycle race, Breaking the pot, Wearing the sari by males, Tug of war, Throw ball, Chocolate hunt, Wearing the shirt in reverse mode, etc. There were also several spot prizes given away throughout the day which kept the gathering actively engaged in various activities. The tug of war was held for different category of ages - till 15 years for  kids (boys Vs girls),  then men  4 teams of 11 members each and ladies 2 teams of 14 members each..

Santhosh who had specially came down from Salalah sprouted  Kishore Kumar’s memories in everyone’s mind with wonderful karaoke singing. There were many other surprise events like Bharatha Nattyam and filmy dance performances which mesmerized the gathering.

Lunch and evening tea was also served to all the attendees.  The day ended with a Tambola game and prize distribution ceremony.  Mr. Sudhir Kumar in his vote of thanks expressed his gratitude to all the members for a wonderful and memorable participation throughout the day. He also thanked each and every sponsor for sponsoring the event. 

Overall it was a memorable day for each and every Mangalorean residing in Sohar region who witnessed a fun filled day with loads of surprises and events. It was clearly seen on each face as they walked out of the stadium.