Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (RJP)
Mangaluru, May 25: It was a day most awaited by music fans in Mangaluru. Maa Creations, a well-known name in Mangaluru as well as in the Gulf region especially in Dubai, but which was yet to present a musical concert in the city, on Sunday May 24 staged a show that would be remembered for a long time to come.
Maa Creations did not disappoint the crowd which had gathered in big numbers to witness the ‘Ghall Tum Nadar’ musical concert on Sunday at St Sebastian Church hall in Bendore in the city. It created magic on stage as the crowd remained glued till the whole concert was over.
The concert started with the introduction of popular TV host of Daijiworld 24x7 and ace compere Leslie Rego, by another famous compere, Jude Noronha.
Leslie Rego requested the dignitaries on stage for a brief inauguration of the concert. J R Lobo, MLA of Mangaluru South constituency, Walter Nandalike, editor-in-chief of Daijiworld Media and Eric Ozario, Gurkar of Mandd Sobhann - president, chief guest and guest of honour of the function respectively - along with Maa Creations’ masters Allan and Arthur Pereira inaugurated the concert by lighting the lamp. NRI businessman Elias Sanctis, the guest of honour joined later.
Maa Creations has the tradition of honouring a special artiste in its every event. This time, it honoured Claude D’Souza, renowned Konkani composer musician and dramatist.
Eric Ozario lauded Arthur’s achievements and said that Arthur is one of those people who work with real passion for music. "Arthur works in Dubai and looks after his family. He contributes to music during his free time. He conducts events without any returns. He is a selfless person."
J R Lobo called upon the people to preserve their culture and richness of the land. He said previously royals used to do that, but in the modern times it becomes the duty of every citizen to contribute for the cultural fabric of the society.
The theme song ‘Ghall Tum Nadar’ (meaning ‘Have a look’) was sung first by veteran singer Rony Crasta, Golden Voice of Konkani Rony D’Cunha, multi-lingual award winning singer Anitha D’Souza and youth sensation Prajoth D’Sa. The song was on world peace.
It was truly a musical feast all through the evening. Fourteen songs, all composed by Arthur Pereira Omzoor were sung during the concert. The songs were tuned by Vijay Noronha, Cajethan Dias, Vincent Fernandes Cascia and Raviraj Tanthri. Music was provided by Pappan and Joswin duo.
'Jai Bharat', a song in a high note sung by Rony D’Cunha and Anitha D’Souza was a special hit among crowds. Eric Ozario, who looked totally moved by this song, stood up from his seat to register his admiration for the quality of the song.
A jugalbandi by Jacqueline Fernandes with vocals and Ustad Rafiq Khan on sitar was a special attraction of the nite. They presented two compositions amid applause from the crowd. The spectators were totally spellbound to experience the special musical fusion happening on Konkani stage. The tunes were classical in nature.
All the sponsors and persons, who helped in making the concert a reality, including representatives of media partners Daijiworld.com, Daijiworld Weekly and Daijiworld TV, were honoured in between the show.
Addressing the gathering after honouring several persons on behalf of the organizers, Walter Nandalike came down heavily on critics of the event and said, "Arthur Pereira Omzoor, the winner of Desert Konkani best lyricist award is the centre of attraction today. But he is extremely shy, simple and a humble person. I had noticed that he was very much hurt by some negative publicity just days before this concert. I asked him not to lose heart. I told him that barking dogs will not make any difference to the fate of an achiever. An achiever keeps on moving forward. It is sad to see criticism written in bad taste in advance on an event which is taking place today.
"Donors in the Gulf countries only support genuine organisers. I have known him for years, and I can say Arthur has never worked for money or fame. Arthur should move ahead like Eric Ozario did without bothering much about the harsh words of detractors," he added.
Adding to Walter’s observation, Leslie Rego said, "Pen is no doubt mighty. But the mike is stronger. We have more spectators than your readers. Please do not disturb the artistes. They will unite and retaliate against the unjust treatment meted out to them."
For Maa Creations which had presented many poetry sessions, cultural events and Konkani Sobhann, this concert was another feather in its cap. Organisers served refreshments for spectators before the concert.