On 12th May 2006, I had a good opportunity to attend a one act play in konkani held at Hawally, Kuwait. Being an expat and waiting for an opportunity to watch Konkani drama I did not a miss chance to mingle with fellow goans. More than the actual performances on the stage which was quite good, I was moved (any one would) by the positive attitude and a fantastic approach of United Club of Utorda (UCU) , who dared to conducted such entertaining show annually since 2002 on their own. I feel there's something special and unique about this group so far, and having no hidden agenda. I got to speak to one of the member of this group and realized that they are doing this out of their love and common goal of promoting and encouraging not only upcoming Konkani theatre artists but also to the one who have desire to act or sing but lack opportunities. They do this work not with any motive of profit at all. The group with their efforts provide us , spectators a opportunity to view drama at a very reasonable charge Ticket of KD 2.500 . At the same time artists/participants are given prizes as incentive. Thanks to their generous sponsors and well wishers. Besides this the other expenses of hall, music, lights, stage set up, transportation etc are meted out from the sale of tickets. Not only this, they go a step ahead. If at all they make any profit , then the proceed of this show is donated to needy in the village of Utorda. So far they have helped some poor students to meet their educational expenses etc. Their accounting record is as clear as crystal. I understand that they do not even have refreshments for themselves out of this profit etc. . . Providing alternative choices and opportunity free of cost to Konkani lovers specially Goans who wish to carry forward the age old entertainment forward is a great service to Goa and its people. UCU is doing its part in encouraging both youngsters and new entrants to express and polish their talents. It's kind of rain in the desert experience. I wish all the best not only to UCU but also to those who wish to serve the goan and Konkani lovers community without any selfish motive. We find very few people who are so devoted to such a cause and who even spend money from their own pockets to see this movement continues. Mind you some of this persons may not be doing so well financially but still they make sacrifices both in terms of time and money. May god bless the members of this club and may they continue this generous work in future as now no profit motive or motive of fame. Dev Bore Korum .. Raul Carneiro
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