Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 17: The Intruz Sunday programme was successfully hosted at the St Joseph Natak Sangha, Jeppu, bringing together community leaders, dignitaries, and participants for an afternoon of cultural and spiritual significance.
The event opened with a profound sense of reverence as a soulful prayer song resonated through the venue, followed by a captivating welcome dance that blended tradition with artistic elegance.
Extending a warm reception to the attendees, Fr Maxim D’Souza, the parish priest, formally welcomed the distinguished dignitaries on the dais and the enthusiastic gathering. This spirit of hospitality culminated in the traditional lighting of the lamp symbolising the dispelling of ignorance and the ushering in of knowledge and prosperity and setting a solemn yet celebratory tone for the proceedings.
The programme was graced by a panel of distinguished guests:
• Fr Rocky D'Cunha, OFM Cap
• Eddie Sequeira
• Sr Sylvia Fernandes
• Jacintha Vijay Alfred
Shalet D’Souza, secretary of SJNS, delivered a comprehensive annual report, highlighting the organization’s key initiatives and impactful milestones achieved over the past year.
Special honours were conferred upon writer and director of the drama ‘Asro’, Clarence Pinto. The programme included the “Honouring of Bendkars of Jeppu Brass Band,” the recognition of Band Masters, and a special segment to honour local artists.
In his presidential address, Fr Rocky D'Cunha emphasised the importance of community cohesion and the values that Intruse stands for. His leadership reflected the programmes commitment to spiritual and social growth within the community.
In his address as chief guest, Eddie Sequeira recalled how the Natak Sangh was established after Jesuit priests recognized the need to nurture and promote local talent in the region. He noted that several plays were successfully staged by local artistes, highlighting the abundance of creative talent in the area.
He fondly remembered two distinguished personalities — Late Luvy Netto, who also served in the Konkani Natak Sabha and was known for his excellence in stage setting, writing and direction; and the Late Konkan Kogul Wilfy Rebimbus, internationally acclaimed for his immense contribution to Konkani music.
He further remarked that the Natak Sabha evokes a surreal and sacred feeling, comparable to the atmosphere at the Jeppu Church.
Jacintha Vijay Alfred shared her insights on community service, drawing from her extensive experience as an Corporator. Her presence highlighted the strong link between civic leadership and community-driven initiatives.
Following the prize distribution for various games held on the occasion of Intruse Sunday, the stage came alive with a diverse cultural showcase of Melodious songs that captivated the audience. Dynamic dance performances by the ladies' group, as well as energetic routines by the boys and girls enthralled the audience.
A theatrical performance that served as a fitting finale to the day’s celebrations was set with the staging of the Konkani play Asro, written and directed by Clarence Pinto, and performed by the Artists of Jeppu. The value-based social drama struck a chord with the audience, reinforcing moral values and earning wide appreciation.
President of Jeppu Natak Sangh Michael D’Souza expressed his gratitude to all who contributed to the programme's resounding success. The entire proceedings were expertly navigated by Zeena Pinto.
The programme concluded with fellowship, as food was served to all the guests, marking a spirit of togetherness and celebrating the centenary milestone.