Report and photographs : Lavina D’Sa
Muscat, Sep 16: The Pangalites in Muscat gathered together on Thursday, 10th of September 2009 at 9 pm to celebrate the feast of nativity of our Blessed Virgin Mary at Queen’s Restaurant, Al-Khuwair.
The new executive committed of Muscat United Pangalites that was elected for the year 2009-2010, conducted and organized the whole event. The members of the newly elected committee are as below:
President : Remy Lobo.
Secretary : Sunita Nazareth
Treasurer : Arun D’ Souza
Media Representative : Sunil D’sa
The celebrations began with a warm welcome extended by Remy Lobo followed by a prayer session conducted by Lavina D’sa seeking heavenly father’s choicest blessings on everyone. Henry Martis offered a special condolence to Late Henry Andrade, a well known personality among the Mangaloreans in Oman and a dedicated Pangalite. It was followed by the Word of God read by Jovin Menezes. The little devotees of our Mother Mary, then showered flowers to Mother Mary while the gathering sang the Marian Hymn. The traditional “Novem “, the blessed new corn was then distributed to the gathering.
Various fun filled games were conducted for the children and adults by Melwin Menezes and Trecilla Menezes.
The children of the community performed a tableau, which portrayed the way in which people back in our hometown would enjoy the harvesting in the paddy fields while the black rain clouds would play their magic on these fields which are filled with rich harvest. It was a very well directed by Melwin Menezes .The tiny little participants of the act gained the appreciation of the audience with their performance.
The traditional Monthi fest lunch with rare tangible dishes cooked by the committed members was served to the gathering on the banana leaves.
The children and the adults danced to tunes of various dance numbers that were played. The children were duly rewarded for their devotion towards Mother Mary with gift packs. The President, Remy Lobo thanked the audience for their presence and the members for their whole hearted support.
The celebration concluded with a bonanza draw conducted by Jovin Menezes and prize distribution. The entire programme was anchored by Arun D’ Souza.
The Pangalites in Muscat thoroughly enjoyed this family reunion and departed with the joy of meeting their fellowmen from their hometown.