Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai (EP)
Mumbai, Dec 5: The Mangalorean Welfare Association, Vidyavihar celebrated its 45th anniversary on December 2 at St Jude church open ground, Jerimeri in pomp and gaiety.
Model Bank, Aldel Trust and Printaniya organization executive president Albert W D’Souza and Konkani activist and entrepreneur Walter D’Souza, Jerimeri were on the dais.
“What we do to ourselves goes with us, but what we do for others remains here permanently. The Mangalorean Welfare Association has been working relentlessly for the last 45 years for the growth of Konkani,” he said. He gave details of the technological college at Borivli and an educational facility at Falghar in Maharashtra started by him. The audience clapped and expressed their joy when he said that Model Cooperative Bank will soon be a scheduled bank.
Former president of the association Rudolf Rebello, Divo weekly magazine editor Lawrence Coelho, Clement Lobo, Model Bank director Benedicta Rebello, singers Blany D’ Costa and Devika Monteiro, Yoga expert Shanti Olivera, Shanti Barboza, Gregory Niddodi, Flora D’Souza, Kalmadi, Libert Olivera, Reginald Santumayor, Benedicta Nazareth, Philomena Rebello and Irene Mathais were presented flower bouquets and honored for their services.
Member’s children presented songs and dances. Inish Mathaias started the programme with dance. Shanti Olivera from Mira Road called on people to maintain their health through Yoga and performed several Yoga asanas. Artistes from Vasai performed ‘Chavi’ a skit. Reginald Santhumayor, Albert D’Costa, Henry Pinto, Hilda D’Souza and Lawrence D’Costa took part in it. Devika and Blany D’Costa, Dr Roshni Crasta, Manuel Fernandes and others sang melodious songs. The programme started on time and was liked by all.
Association president Lawrence D’Souza welcomed the gathering, introduced the guests and honored them with flower bouquets. Students who secured highest marks in their respective fields were presented scholarships. Lawrence D’Souza Kamani and Leo Fernandes compered the programme. Robert Quadros proposed the vote of thanks.