UAE: SMMKC – a Forum for Mangaloreans in Sharjah, Launched
By Dinesh Correa
Pics:Jovin Dsouza
Daijiworld Media Network – UAE (SP)
Sharjah, Feb 26: Mangalorean Catholics residing in Sharjah came together to celebrate their unity in the form of a newly constituted Mangalorean Konkani association, which is affiliated to the parish of St Michael’s Church, Sharjah. A simple inaugural ceremony of ‘Mangalorean Konkani Community’ (SMMKC) was held at the main hall of St Michael’s Church, witnessed by a full hall crowd. To add flavour of entertainment to the event, sixth show of Pradeep Barboza Paladka’s comedy ‘Sangon Mugdana’, was presented.
The inaugural ceremony was held on Thursday, February 24, at 8 pm. The event began with the recital of prayer hymn by the parish Konkani choir led by Lancy Carlo. Fr Annie Xavier, parish priest of Sharjah parish, accompanied by Fr Franky and Fr Francis Rosario, were present on stage. Other dignitaries and SMMKC core committee members, who were present at the dais were: Alfred D’Souza, a Mangalorean businessman who has contributed greatly towards the Sharjah Mangaloreans, especially as the sole sponsor of Monthifest celebrations in the Church for the past six consecutive years; Mark Denis D’Souza, well-known community leader and an ardent Konkani supporter; Charles Aranha, a Mangalorean businessman and Konkani enthusiast; Joachim Menezes, another Mangalorean leader and entrepreneur. Lawrence D’Souza, Lancy Carlo, Clara D’Cunha, and Louis D’Souza too were present on the stage along with Uttam Menezes, main coordinator of SMMKC, who delivered his welcome address and introduced spiritual director, advisors and core committee members. Uttam also mentioned the association of Peter Paul D’Souza and Franky Lobo, who were not present, with this organization.
The function was inaugurated by lighting of the traditional lamp by some of the dignitaries. In his address, Sharjah parish priest, Fr Annie Xavier, congratulated Sharjah Mangalorean Konkans for their unity that has taken the shape of SMMKC, and called upon all Mangalorean parishioners to be a part of this noble association and carry on with this exuberance for long.
Sixth show of Pradeep Barboza Paladka’s critically acclaimed comedy ‘Sangon Mugdana’, was staged by ‘Sangon Mugdana Kalakaar’. The play was thoroughly enjoyed by the full hall spectators. Writer and director of the play, who has also written and directed various Konkani and Tulu plays, was felicitated by SMMKC for his unique contribution towards theatre. He was extended felicitation by presenting shawl, fruits, flowers and memento. Other artistes and technical team members too were called on stage and presented with mementos. Maxim and Anitha Menezes, Salvador and Jacintha D’Souza, too were honoured for their active support towards the formation of SMMKC.
Before the start of the stage event, a few Konkani songs were presented live by Arun Carlo, Vincent Fernandes and group, Ramiero, Sheila Carlo, Godwin Dsouza, Melwin D’Souza and Uttam Menezes. The entire event concluded at 12.20am. Louis D’Souza proposed vote of thanks. Dinesh Correa compered the event.