Riyadh: Konkan Ghar Riyadh celebrate Mangalorean Traditional Christmas in Capital of Saudi Arabia

By Uday Rodrigues
Pics by Kiran Machado & Savitha Aranha
Bellevision Media Network

Riyadh/KSA, 29 Dec 2013: It was an evening to be remembered for Konkan Ghar Riyadh, as there was a double celebration on the occasion of Christmas held here on Thursday December 26. Firstly, it was an exciting fun-filled Christmas party and secondly the grand launch of the debut Konkani music album, ‘Udi Udi’ by the well known singer in Mangalore Prajoth D’Sa.
The programme commenced here on Thursday at 9.00pm, with Christmas carols singing led by Eden D’Sa Pangla.
Ivan Vas Omzoor offered the prayers, while Clinton D’Souza Thottam delivered the Christmas message.  The traditional Christmas celebration was strongly felt in wintry atmosphere with Christmas decorations, aroma of freshly-baked cakes and ‘Kuswar’ prepared by the members of Konkan Ghar.

The feel of Christmas was felt all around with sparkling lights, stars, the wintry air with the aroma of freshly baked cakes and Kuswar prepared by Konkan Ghar members.

The children were all excited, the moment they heard ‘Jingle   bells’ playing as they knew who was round the corner and  went on looking for him.  Santa Claus (enacted by Godwin Mendonca, Mudarangady) had a grand entry jingling the bells and swinging his bag full of sweets and gifts to the delight of the children who ran all around and he distributed them to all the children.

Debut album of Prajoth D’Sa, ‘Udi Udi’ was released in a grand manner by Eric and Anitha D’Sa couple Pangla. A huge CD flap cut-out; designed by Manoj Aranha Shirva was bought to the venue by Santa Claus, attracted everyone.
Over 300 CD’s were sold by Konkan Ghar members, which itself is a record sale here.  Konkan Ghar Riyadh is the title sponsor of the album and one of its members, Eden D’Sa has gifted her voice for one of the beautiful song in the album – ‘Rasthyar Salthana,’ which has already won the hearts of youth.

Eden D’Sa was felicitated on the same occasion in recognition of her excellent contributions to the Association and the token of appreciation was presented by Salvador and Prema Fernendes Gantalkatte.

Remy Lobo Deralakatte was felicitated for his continuous outstanding support to the Association by Manoj and Savitha Aranha Shirva.

 

A sumptuous traditional Mangalorean style dinner was served.
A superb dance was performed by Austin Menezes, Godwin Mendonca, Kevin D’Souza and Kiran Machado, while the song ‘Rastyar Salthana’ was sung by Eden D’Sa from the album ‘Udi Udi’ which gave a flying start to the cultural programme after the dinner.

Another beautiful dance performance by Elita D’Sa, Elton D’Sa and Simona Fernandes for the popular song of the year Gangnam Style thrilled the crowd.

Housie Housie game was conducted by Henry Gonsalves Kinnigoli.
There was a 3 hours long DJ music by Praveen and Naveen Ashok Nagar, turned the crowd to come forward and dance which added to the charm and aura of the evening.

Konkan Ghar leader Eric D’Sa Pangla welcomed the gathering.  
Uday Rodrigues and Jenifer D’Sa compered the programme.  Austin Menezes Miyar proposed the vote of thanks.