Report: Uday Rodrigues
Picss: Kiran Machado, Savitha Aranha

Riyadh, Dec 28: It was an evening to be remembered for Konkan Ghar Riyadh on Thursday December 26 as there was a double celebration on the occasion of Christmas. First, it was an exciting fun-filled Christmas party and secondly, the event witnessed the grand launch of the debut Konkani music album “Udi Udi” by well-known singer Prajoth D’Sa of Mangalore.

The programme commenced at 9 P.M. with Carol Singing led by Eden D’Sa, Pangla. Konkan Ghar leader Eric D’Sa Pangla welcomed the gathering. Ivan Vas Omzoor conducted the prayer and the Christmas Message was conveyed by Clinton D’souza, Thottam.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, Mudarangadi) 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 Anitha D’Sa, Pangla. A huge CD flap cut-out, designed by Manoj Aranha, Shirva was bought to the venue by Santa Clause, attracted everyone. Over 300 CDs were sold by Konkan Ghar members, which itself is a record sale here. Konkan Ghar Riydh 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 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 Mendonsa, 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 Ashoknagar, turned the crowd to come forward and dance which added to the charm and aura of the evening. Couple, Uday Rodrigues and Jenifer D’sa made sure that the crowd was entertained and enjoyed the programme throughout with their well organised compering. To conclude Austin Menezes, Miyar proposed the vote of thanks.