Report: Gyanish Martis, Alangar
Pics: Wilfred Mendonca, Aakruti Studio, Moodbidri
Moodbidri, Apr 17: The first anniversary of the cultural organization 'Rang Tarang' was celebrated with great enthusiasm as 'Rang Tarang Fest 2026' at the Alangar Church Grounds recently, attracting an impressive gathering of around 3,000 people.
Founded on April 14, 2025, with the objective of nurturing young talent and providing a platform for emerging artists from Moodbidri and nearby areas, Rang Tarang has made remarkable progress within a year.
Inauguration and induction
The event commenced with a prayer service led by Fr Melvin Noronha, parish priest of Alangar. The programme was formally inaugurated by Anil Lobo, chairman of MCC Bank, through the rendition of the Rang Tarang theme song followed by the ceremonial beating of the bass drum.
A total of 25 new members were inducted into the organization and honoured with ceremonial shawls in the presence of Fr Ronald Prakash D’Souza.
Cultural extravaganza
The fest featured a vibrant lineup of cultural performances, including traditional dances by Rang Tarang members. Young artists from various wards of Moodbidri showcased performances based on compositions of noted Konkani writers such as Lawrence Saldanha, Alvi Carmelith, Josy, Lloyd Rego, Herald Tauro, Allan D’Souza, and Vivek.
Under the guidance of Joel Attur’s Silver Tone Band, performers including Herald Tauro, Nestor D’Souza, Valentin Castelino, Alisha Santmayor, Anora Mendonca, Alani D’Souza, Dominic D’Souza, John Prakash Dais, Elvin D’Sa, Premal Miranda, Angel Coutinho, Riyon Pearl, Anita Menezes, and Prakash Pereira delivered commendable performances.
Dance groups from Alangar, Gantalkatte, Hospet, Moodbidri, Paladka, Taccode, and Saverapur parishes entertained the audience. Pearl Aranha, winner of a Daijiworld dance competition, presented a special performance. Comedy skits by artists from Paladka and Gantalkatte added humour to the evening.
Kala Gaurav Award
A major highlight was the presentation of the first 'Rang Tarang Kala Gaurav Award' to 96-year-old veteran brass band artist Felix Cardoza, in recognition of his lifelong contribution to music.
Chief guest Anil Lobo appreciated the disciplined organization and the efforts of Rang Tarang in bringing together a large audience, assuring his continued support.
Dignitaries including Fr Ronald Prakash D’Souza, Fr Melvin Noronha, entrepreneur Ronald Sylvan, Rajesh Mendonca, Ashwin Pereira, and Praveen Pereira were present. The event management team comprised Santosh Saldanha, Rajesh D’Souza, Jason Pereira, Nisha Rodrigues, and Winston Sequeira.
The programme was compered by Alvin Quadras (Belvai), and the vote of thanks was delivered by co-coordinator Alvin Rodrigues. The fest also featured food stalls, games, and a lucky draw sponsored by Lexa Lightings. Music by Silver Tones Band, New Star Brass Band, and DJ Sachin Fernandes enlivened the atmosphere.
Organizers announced that Rang Tarang Fest will now be held annually on April 14. The organization currently has 66 members.