Kuwait Pangla Association Celebrates Monthi Fest
Report: Clara D'Souza
Kuwait, Sep 20: Kuwait Pangla Association (KPA) celebrated the Feast of Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary at the Indian Public School Auditorium, Salmiya, Kuwait with great joy and enthusiasm.
The celebration began around noon. Jaison Larsado, the compere for the program highlighted the significance of mother Mary in our lives and our devotion to Mary. This was followed by a welcome dance by Viola Martis in the form of BharthaNatyam which was applauded by everyone.
KPA president Jerald Quadras extended a warm welcome to members and guests. In his speech he spoke about the significance of the feast particularly for the Manglorean community since this feast brings us double joy as it is our beloved mother Mary's birthday and the feast of new harvest.
The chief guest for the program was Helen Pinto, General Manager at Behbehani Car Rental, Kuwait. Jerald Quadras gave a short description of Pinto and highlighted all her achievements and valuable contribution to the community. Jerald requested the Vice President (KPA) Rashmi D'Mello to escort Pinto to the dias who was later felicitated by one of the senior committee members Victor Martis by giving a bouquet of flowers.
George D'Souza said the opening prayer which was followed by an important event of the day which was offering flowers to the mother Mary by tiny tots. The children along with the adults sang the hymn “Sakkad Sangatha Melya” All the tiny tots were given sugar cane for taking part in the solemn ceremony and also keeping our very old tradition alive.
The new harvest (rice grains) was brought by and Roshan and Themla Quadras which was received by the chief guest and later offered at Mother Mary's statue. Novem was added in the milk and was distributed to everyone.
Albert Quadras took the opportunity to say a few words about the chief guest and praised her and her husband for their various contributions to charity in Kuwait as well as in India. The chief guest of the day Helen Pinto was requested to say a few words. Pinto in her speech wished everyone a happy feast and expressed her gratitude for having her as the guest of honor. She wished KPA all the best and she said she wants to see a growth in members so we can make a significant contribution to the society at large, especially the poor and the needy. As a good gesture and charity she gave a cheque of Rs 25,000 towards KPA fund.
A very senior member of KPA Valerian D'Souza who will be leaving Kuwait for good in couple of days was felicitated with a souvenir as a token of appreciation from KPA for all his support. This was presented by Helen Pinto. Valerian received an additional personal gift from Pinto. Valerian D'Souza thanked everyone for their love.
Makita Mendonca, Viola Martis and Winston Martis entrained the crowd with their dance and Larrisa D'Mello with a song. It was very nice and was applauded by everyone. All four participants were given certificates of appreciation.
There were two games each for children and adults. The winners in children games where Alvisha Noronha and Larisa D'Mello. The elder games winners were Thelma Quadras and Steven Castelino.
This was followed by Housie game; the winners were Jennifer Quadras, Cardoza, Adson Mendonca, Ignatius Quadras and DJ Roshan
The chief guest gave away the prizes for all the winners.
Rashmi D'Mello proposed vote of thanks.
Makita D'Souza said the Grace before Meal which was followed with a traditional lunch served on a banana leaf with nine different types of delicious vegetables and vorn. The banquet was prepared and served by Hot Spot Caterers.
After lunch there was nonstop baila session which brought an end to a great fun filled day.