from Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai (RD)

Mumbai, Nov 9: Various cultural events were held to mark the decennial celebrations of St Peter’s Association Barkur, at Baidas auditorium, situated at Ville Parle on Friday November 9 morning.  Popular Konkani dramatist, Francis Fernandes Cascia, was felicitated on the occasion.

Francis Fernandes Cascia, while acknowledging the honour said that no one should commit the stupidity of forgetting his own mother, mother tongue, native place.  They are significant part of one’s life.  It is known all over the world that, no sooner if one becomes internationally-popular, the question of who is his mother, which is his mother tongue, which part of the country he hails from crop up.  It is one's utmost duty to preserve his culture.  Hence, the contribution of artistes play significant role in nurturing the traditional practices and contemporary art.

Lawrence D’Souza, managing director, Blue Star Elevators Pvt Ltd, in his presidential address said that the apprehension of modern gimmicks disfigure the dramas in particular, are not justified.  However, it has contributed for the liveliness of amateur plays.  This has been proved by the drama troupe of Francis Fernandes Cascia.  Therefore, art enthusiasts should strive to enliven the drama with innovative experiments.

Walter Nandalike, managing director and editor-in-chief, Daijiworld Media Pvt Ltd, Henry D’Silva Suratkal, president, Canarites Youth Associations Mumbai, Rony Goveas, proprietor, Spray Links, Vinayak Indulkar, Rohan Roche, Daisy Serrao, Marceline Carvalho  were the chief guests, present at the occasion.

Peter Furtado, vice-president, St Peter’s Association Barkur, Norbert Menezes, Antony Dias, treasurer, Felix Barnes, honorary executive president and Henry Roche were present.

Richard Carvalho, Association president welcomed. Ivan Rebello, honorary chief secretary read the citation letter and introduced the honoured personality.  Eric Carvalho, executive committee member, Ivan Suvares, joint secretary compered the programme.  Zaina Fernandes proposed vote of thanks.  

Francis Fernandes Cascia's Konkani comedy play 'Mhataro Chorbela' was staged in front of the capacity audience on the occasion.