UAE: Accolades Plenty as Konkani Assns Honour Comedy King
by Ramcy Fernandes
Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai
Dubai, Dec 11: In the midst of a wonderful gathering, renowned stage artiste, writer, director, actor and social worker Francis Fernandes Cascia was honoured by about 34 various Konkani community associations spread around UAE. The felicitation programme was initiated by Daiji Dubai, Konkani Writers’ forum and Daiji Rang Mandir, a cultural wing of Daiji Dubai.
The felicitation was extended in recognition of his immense service towards the society and Konkani literature at India Club on Friday December 10.
Francis Fernandes Cascia’s multifaceted talents and activities were highlighted even as he was felicitated and crowned with a traditional cap, shawl, flowers, citation, memento and a souvenir. Celebrated supporters like Leo Rodrigues, Joseph Mathias, James Mendonca and Mark Denes D’Souza were called on to honour the living legend.
Daiji Dubai’s convener Stan Ageira briefed the audience on Francis Cascia's literary work, while Daijiworld’s editor-in-chief Walter Nandalike presented a vivid picture of Francis's social work and also depicted the humorous side of his personality.
Francis has written 32 Konkani stage plays, all of which have been major hits. His recent drama ‘Matharo Chorbela’ has been staged in a record number of 60 shows. He has many ’firsts’ to his credit. He has been the first to present a Konkani drama in places like Israel, Doha, Sharjah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
An emotional Francis Fernandes thanked his wife, Daiji Dubai, Daiji Rang Mandir and the Konkani community all over the world for the support given and the love bestowed on him. He talked about the difficult days of his life, and said that such experiences prompted him to do charity work.
His wife Louiza Fernandes was also emotional throughout the felicitation programme.
The members of the Mangalorean business community were present together with the representatives of 34 Konkani associations of Dubai. Dayan D’Souza organized a ‘standup comedy’ show as a tribute to the famous comedian.
Well-known artistes Stan Ageira, Walter Nandalike, Rony Sebastian, Sunita Menezes, Vincent, and Antony Mendonca offered plenty of lighter moments and kept the specially invited gathering well-engaged with rib-tickling humour.
Rony Byndoor skillfully compered the show. Daij Rang Mandir’s convener Alwin Pinto expressed his gratitude for the encouragement and support shown by everyone present in making the event a grand success.