Media Release
Houston, Dec 12: The Houston Konkan Catholic Association (HKCA) hosted a grand Christmas gala on Dec 7 at Al Ghazal Indian Café in Stafford, Texas, marking the start of the festive season. The venue was elegantly decorated, featuring a stunning backdrop designed by Karen Pinto.
Attendees were greeted with goody bags containing Kuswar brought from India, setting a warm and festive tone. The evening began with melodious Christmas carols performed by adult and youth members, accompanied by Allwyn Furtado on guitar.
A surprise visit from Santa Claus brought cheer and excitement, creating a winter wonderland atmosphere. Families captured memories with Santa and at a 360-photo booth, adding to the fun.
The evening offered a delectable spread of beverages and appetizers, including Mango Margarita, veg pakoras, fish cutlets, and beef chilly fry.
The event's emcees—Darel D'Souza, Cleona Monteiro, Roschelle D'Souza, Nigel Pereira, Eric Saldanha, and Mathew D'Souza—kept the audience entertained and engaged. Mathew also summarized HKCA’s events for the year and extended gratitude to volunteers and sponsors for their invaluable contributions.
Performances included delightful carol singing and musical renditions by talented members: Kiera Pattani on flute, Aden Mathias on piano, Ava D'Souza and Nicole Pinto on violin, Daniel Pinto on viola, and Roma Quadros for vocals.
Bollywood and Konkani Baila dance performances by couples Diane and Nigel Pereira, Karen and Errol D'Souza, Lorain and Blendon Sequeira, Karen and Chris Pinto, and Ria and Jason Monteiro were highlights of the evening. These were choreographed by Kien and Kiera Pattani.
Adding to the festive fun, tables were named after the song Twelve Days of Christmas, encouraging lively group singing. Spot prizes kept the audience engaged throughout.
Dinner featured a sumptuous menu of parotha, chicken curry, goat korma, palak paneer, and chicken alfredo pasta for children. Desserts included ras malai and black forest cake. Grace before meals was led by Eric Saldanha.
The evening concluded with dancing to a DJ’s foot-tapping beats.
HKCA extended gratitude to its sponsors, including Pradeep and Rochelle Lobo (videobooth), Havenry Vacations founded by Ancy D'Souza (Christmas mug giveaways), Sherosh Delights founded by Sandra D'Souza (dessert cake), and Michael Valdar and family (spot prizes). Special thanks were also given to photographers Lorain Sequeira and Roshan D'Souza for capturing the event’s cherished moments.
The HKCA Christmas gala was a vibrant and memorable celebration, bringing the community together to usher in the holiday season.