UAE: Abu Dhabi Goans organized ‘Viva Goa..! Viva Carnival..!’ for the third consecutive year at Hotel Le Meridien here on February 5. The open air event by the poolside was well attended by a large crowd from all walks of life, to taste Goan culture, music and cuisine.
Goan Troupe ‘GoenchoKonso’,from Abu Dhabi led by Gabriel Fernandes and Johnito Rodrigues were felicitated by the Carnival King Momo with a crystal trophy for completing 15 years of social service to the community.
Goan Band La Vida, The Irresistible Darryl, DJ Rudy, Ivor D’Cunha, Tavia, Aviella, Lennox entertained the fun loving Carnival crowd till 7:15 pm. Mouth watering Goan delicacies were served at the food counters.
Vibrant mood setters Avito Carvalho and Conrad Caeiro kept the crowd in high spirits throughout the evening. The highlight of the day was the pompous arrival of King Momo (Avito Carvallo) with his entourage of little kids finely decorated with face painting and members of the troupe with colourful costumes and traditional dresses filled the air with fun and excitement all around. King Momo delivered the message of love, peace and harmony and wished all the members a wonderful Carnival of joy to the families here and back in Goa.
There were loads of entertainment games held in between by MCs of the day giving away gifts of airline tickets. Nolasco de Abreu the host of the day and organizer of the entire event distributed the prizes to the winners. There was also prize of Air ticket for the best Goan attire dressed by Goans.
Nolasco de Abrau delivered the vote of thanks, he thanked each and everyone who participated in the Viva-Goa-Viva Carnival and to the management of the Le-Meridian Hotel, the organizers, the committee, band and singers and the media representatives.