Report & Pics: Canute Moras & Gladson D’Sa
Dubai, Nov 29: 'Udyavarites UAE', an association of Udyavar parishioners residing in the UAE, celebrated St Francis Xavier's annual feast at President Hotel, Karama, Dubai on Friday November 27. The event also marked the 16th anniversary of Udyavarites UAE.
The association has been running successfully for the past 16 years and fulfilling its mission of 'Unity, generosity and service'. These events are means of strengthening the bonds between Udyavar parishioners, their families and friends.
The programme commenced with a prayer song by talented singers of the association, followed by prayer. Robert Fernandes warmly welcomed the gathering and thanked the sponsors and well-wishers for supporting and strengthening Udyavarites for the last 16 years and requested them to continue the generosity in future. He said that their gesture had encouraged the committee members to work hard and provide educational and medical help to the needy back home in Udyavar.
Chief guest of the event Fr Roque D'Souza, the parish priest of Udyavar graced the occasion. Addressing the gathering, he updated the progress of the new church construction project. He thanked all the benefactors and well-wishers who had contributed to the project. He also gave a call to continue supporting the cause until its successful completion.
The parish priest congratulated the Udyavarites association office-bearers and members on the all the good work done since inception and wished greater success in future.
The entertainment was a potpourri of skits, dance, live music, songs, spot prizes and much more. Veteran team of artistes comprising Vivian, Gilbert, Jeffery and Joacky presented hilarious skits and fascinated the audience and evoked a laugh riot. Robert and Natasha performed an energetic dance.
Young Udyavarites represented by Ansel, Abel, Andrea, Ashlyn, Calvin, Elina, Elisha, Natasha and Sarah presented a variety songs and Christmas carols. Live music and songs were performed by Melvin, Prashant and Fabella, supported by many other singers. The event was interspersed with many spot prizes, with the audience showing good response and participation.
Renowned MC Uttam Menezes compered the show with great finesse and kept the audience engaged.
Talented members of "Sparsh Dubai" who had won 1st place at recently held talents contest organized by Mangalore Konkans, enthralled the audience with their crisp acting skills through a meaningful skit. The team was comprising talented artists Darel, Melwyn, Nisha, Sandeep and Rohan.
Vote of thanks was given by Canute Moras.
President Hotel management and staff served sumptuous lunch buffet and satiated the taste buds of all with good service to everyone’s satisfaction.
The audience of about 200 completely enjoyed the show and gave encouraging reviews. Udyavarites president and committee members thanked one and all for their continuous support.