Kuwait Pangla Association Celebrates Nativity Feast, Announces Upcoming Blood Donation Campaign
Kuwait: The Kuwait Pangla Association (KPA) celebrated the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary on September 20, 2024, in Salmiya, Kuwait, with a spirit of devotion and community. This significant feast, cherished by Mangalorean Catholics, marks the birthday of Mother Mary and coincides with the joyous festival of new harvests.
The celebration commenced with a warm welcome from compere Joslin D’souza, who set a joyful tone for the gathering. Following this, Manoj Rego and his team led the attendees in a heartfelt prayer, inviting blessings upon the event. KPA President Roshan Martis then took the stage to address the members and guests, sharing an inspiring message about the importance of the Nativity Feast and its deeper meaning for the community.
A poignant moment of the evening featured Walter and Sunitha Fernandes, who brought the new harvest to the celebration—a tradition they started 30 years ago. Their offerings were presented to Tereza Mendonsa then place them under the statue of Mother Mary, beautifully adorned with flowers, in a gesture of reverence and gratitude.
The celebration also included a solemn procession of children, who carried trays filled with exquisite flowers. They marched to the lilting tunes of traditional Konkani hymns, such as “Sakad Saangaataa melyaan” and “Moriek Hogolsiyan,” creating a moving tribute to their beloved Mother.
In addition to the spiritual festivities, a significant highlight of the evening was the introduction of a Blood Donation Camp, scheduled for October 18, 2024, at the Central Blood Bank in Jabriya. KPA committee member Roshan Quadras urged all attendees to participate in this noble initiative, emphasizing the importance of community service and the potential to make a difference in the lives of those in need.
The KPA took a moment to honour Manoj Rego, a prominent member who has dedicated many years of service to the association. As he prepares to leave Kuwait to reunite with his family in India, fellow member Naveen Monis shared heartfelt words in tribute to his contributions and impact on the KPA.
To add to the festivities, the evening included entertainment activities, such as a lively Housie game and a melodious Hindi song performed by Water Fernandes. These activities brought smiles and laughter, enhancing the sense of camaraderie among attendees.
After the grace before the meal, guests were treated to a delicious traditional vegetarian feast served on banana leaves, featuring a delightful fish curry and vorn. The evening concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Lavina Castelino, who expressed gratitude to everyone for their participation and support, making the celebration a memorable occasion for all.