'United Mangloreans Kuwait (UMK),' a group of talented artistes under the leadership of Agnel Saldanha with the motto 'Our talent - Help for the unprivileged' organized its most awaited charity show ‘Fun Filled Evening 2017’ on Friday November 10, at American International School, from 4.30 pm onwards.
The show comprised melodious songs, foot tapping dances and a Konkani social comedy drama ‘Mit Mirsang’ written and directed by Ronald D'Souza Mulky in aid of Mount Rosary Charitable Institutions, Alangar-Moodbidri, -Shelter for destitute, sick, aged and dying) and Vimukti (Capuchin Krishik Seva Kendra Belthangady, a rehabilitation and training center for the mentally challenged children).
In the past six shows, UMK has contributed around Rs 1.06 Crores to Shena Sadan HIV AIDS center - Mangaluru, Navachetana Special School - Venur, White Doves –Mangaluru, Little Sisters of Poor - Mangaluru, Manasa Rehabilitation Center – Pamboor, Udupi district, De Mercede Orphanage – Deralakatte, Mangaluru and of St Joseph Prashanth Nivas Ashram, Jeppu, Mangaluru.
The programme began with anchors of the day Santhosh Dsouza and Sharal Barboza formally welcoming the audience. Gurkar Agnel Saldanha and all members of UMK proceeded to the stage. After the prayer song by UMK members (Music: Joe D'Souza), solo song was performed by Joella Pereira. Foot tapping dances were performed by Salmiya Friends (Kids & Adults) and Ahmadi Group Dance. Audience were entertained with Konkanni Group song ‘Amchi Bhaas Konkanni’ for which music was provided by Ethan Fernandes (Electric Guitar), Joshwa D’Souza (Keyboard), Sean Fernandes (Drums), Sanya Fernandes (Rhythem Guitar), Raphael D'Souza (Bass Guitar).
Fr Noel D'Almeida along with sponsors Mahmoud Abdullah, Rita Al Asmar, Francis D'Souza, Joe Pereira, Vally D'Sa, Leo Pinto and UMK Gurkar Agnel Saldanha were welcomed to the stage for lighting of the traditional lamp. Gurkar of UMK Agnel Saldanha welcomed the audience and explained the achievements of UMK through the Kuwait public towards good deeds. Agnel Saldanha informed that after deducting all the expenses they can manage to give over IRs 35,16,250 to Mount Rosary Charitable Institutions and Vimukti. The total charity raised by UMK crossed 1.4 crore rupees in 7 shows which is a milestone.
The sponsors of the event were felicitated with mementoes and flower bouquets. The contributors of the program like the director of the drama, music director, choreographers along with the various media persons were also felicitated with flower bouquets. Chief guest Fr Noel D'Almeida and Mahmoud Abdullah spoke few words appreciating the efforts of UMK towards a good cause. Fr Noel D'Almeida asked the audience to contribute their talents to such events. Starting with a quote from Mother Teresa, Mahmoud Abdullah appreciated UMK's efforts and mentioned that he has helped with a sponsorship without considering religion or nationality by only considering the cause. He also wished to join the next event of UMK which was applauded by huge response from the crowd.
After introduction of Vimukti and Mount Rosary Charitable Institutions, a documentary video prepared by Glen Wilson Fernandes, Joe D'Souza & Shannu D'Souza was presented on the same.
After the introduction by Joel Pinto & Andrea Pinto the much awaited drama ‘Mit Mirsang’ started with a big bang as expected. The team succeeded in tickling the ribs of the audience and bringing out the emotions to its maximum. The artists Aaral Noronha - Moodubelle, Aldrin Pais - Derebail, Allan Vaz -Hirgan, Anil D'Mello - Niddodi, Anil Menezes - Shirva, Hilda Cornelio - Shankarapura, Jackson D'Sa - Gurpur, Lavina D'Souza - Kirem, Mary Cutinho - Derebail, Rajesh Cardoza, - Paladka, Rajesh Fernandes - Udyavara, Remy Cornelio - Shankarapura, Renny Menezes - Shirva, Satish Saldanha - Kateel, Shannu D'Souza - Miyar, Shawn Pereira - Miyar, Vinny D’Costa - Mulki, Vrinda Lewis- Udyavara, Joseph D'Souza - Navunda gave their maximum to fill the life in the characters of drama. The story starts with the rivalry of two neighboring hotels and continues with their kid's love affair. Rajesh- Renny duo has done tremendous job at comedy part of the drama where as all the artists done exceptional justice to their roles.
The drama concept, story, dialogues, stage setting and direction was by Ronald D'Souza, Mulki. Script was edited by Roque Lewis. Background scores/music were provided by Suneeth Noronha-Katapady and Purandar Manchi. Choreography by Gita Poojari and Vrinda Lewis. Stage Setting done by Levnis Suares, Anand Pais, Bhavith Kumar, Ronson Saldanha and Tarseem Singh. Make- up was done by Ajay Gosh, Jacintha Gretta, Diona D'silva and Lidwin Bothello. Lights and sounds were provided by Waves Events Engineering (Anand D'Souza). The program was well compered by Santhosh Dsouza, Sharal Barboza, Joel Pinto and Andrea Pinto. Flawia Lobo proposed vote of thanks.
Due to the oil price drop and present situations of Gulf, many associations and individuals stopped or reduced their activities due to lack of sponsors and funds. It is highly appreciable that some individuals gathering together to help for a good cause with mind blowing programs to the entire satisfaction of the audience. Writer, director Ronald D'Souza has done a tremendous job by directing the drama professionally and presenting it with highest standards using local amateur artists which should be recognized and highly appreciated. UMK has become a brand for charity and a house hold name among Indians in Kuwait due to their hard work and contribution towards needy people back home.