WORLD GOA DAY 2005 MELBOURNE For the third year in a row, Goans in Melbourne got together on the 20th of August, to celebrate World Goa Day. True to the norm of Indian Stretchable Time [IST] people began coming in around 7.30 pm against the planned 7.00pm start. But when they came, they came in droves, and soon every seat was filled [the function was fully sold out a week before the 20th].
The Master of Ceremonies for the day, Joe Fernandes [Colva] kick started the event with gusto, and ably supported by AFTER DARK an 8 piece band soon had the crowd on the floor. After the first set of dancing, there was a unique presentation of the Goan Dekhni. Attired in traditional attire, a set of three young girls and boys justified their presentation of song and dance to the thrill of the crowd who joined in singing Hanv Saiba Poltodi Vetam amidst clapping and whistling to the tune of the song! The Dekni presentation brought many a tear to a lot of eyes that night, and nostalgic memories of Goa were evoked. After the presentation, the crowd was thrilled and kept asking for more. The choreographer, Mrs Lidia Martins was called in to take a bow, and her efforts were well appreciated by one and all. Joe then announced the traditional MARCHA. Almost every couple strutted on to the dance floor and joined in the fun. This ended with the fiesta which proved to be the icebreaker for the day. Strangers became friends in an instant, and the very ambience in the hall changed. It was so good to see so many Goans converge for a common cause, which was to celebrate our identity gained with the recognition of our beloved Konkanni on that day. It was pleasant experience hearing Goans speak Konkani. It was a great sense of camadarie and love for fellow Goans that pervaded the hall. This was the crowning glory of the day. The band seeing the mood of the crowd, excelled and dished out many old and new favourites, to the entire satisfaction to the different age groups that were present. The floor was packed with couples dancing and every one was happy. This year there were prizes galore. More than 25 prizes were awarded during the night, and these included a giant television, DVD sets, stereos given by ANZ Bank, Dandenong market, some gift vouchers from prominent Indian and Australian businesses, bottles of wine, besides other items. People were glad to see so many opportunities to win that night! Then came the buffet. Once again this was a great affair. With a spread of so many delicious chaffing dishes including Goas favourite Sorpotel, every one was very satisfied with many queuing for second serves to the delight of the Chef. In all there were 8 different dishes laid out, followed by a two course dessert. After the buffet, came in the toast of the night! And that was the Konkanni music and songs. The crowd was enthralled! This time the floor was packed with almost every table deserted. With green, yellow and red kerchiefs waving we saw some traditional Goan dancing too! And they just refused to stop for a long long time. We wound up at about 12.30 am, as we could not carry on due to legal restrictions in the area. This was a night of nights, a night that we will remember for the next 364 days till we all meet again to celebrate World Goa Day 2006. The function was ably supported by Mr. Salus Correa, Joe Fernandes and Vidal Franklin, who showed their tacit support and loyalty to the World Goa Day, who were acclaimed for a night that will surely be remembered for long time! OSCAR C. LOBO WORLD GOA DAY - CO-ORDINATOR - MELBOURNE