Konkani Samudai, Bangalore, ushered in the spirit of Christmas with ‘Nathalancho Sambram’organized on 12thof December at J.P. Nagar Cultural Association. Around 100 members gathered under one roof for these pre celebrations of the birth of our Lord.

The host of the evening Disleen D’Souza welcomed all those present followed by a welcome speech by President Vinod Monteiro. Sharon Rego and team led the gathering into a meaningful prayer song invoking God’s blessings on all. It was nice to see Cianna Furtado and Neil Rhian enacting as Mother Mary and St. Joseph beside a beautifully decorated Christmas tree and crib. Certificates of previous competitions were handed over to the participants who brought laurels to Konkani Samudai with their graceful singing in all categories and bringing back the rolling trophy in 2019.

Games were conducted throughout the event and many of them participated and prizes were distributed at the end of the event. Fr. Joseph Naveen Kumar, Parish Priest and Fr. Vallaba Dhas, Asst. Parish Priest of ChristhaPrabhalaya Church, Jayanagar together with Hilton Rodrigues and Jacintha Rodrigues released a much awaited Cover Song – Way Maker by Sharon Rego. A beautifully organized Christmas Carols session was conducted which had carols sung by the Choir some of which were Gloria in Excelcis Deo, Zayo Zayo Jezu Bala, Sagli Shrishti Pavana, Sodvondar Amka Aaz Zalmala and many others. The much awaited Santa entered the Hall with Jingle Bells in the background and distributed goodies to all who were gathered.

Fr. Joseph Naveen and Fr. Dhas gave their Christmas message to the gathering and led the Grace before meals. Fr. Naveen exclaimed the importance of how a crib beautifies the essence of Christmas season and wished the association the very best. As also Fr. Dhas said "Christmas is sharing, giving and nourishing. God Shared His own life with humanity thus made everyone to experience God’s Love". Fr. wished all a very Happy Christmas and blessed the association in all of their plans and future projects.
Children took part in ‘Secret Santa’ and exchanged their gifts with each other.

Flash Mob to Carols wonderfully choreographed by Anvita Monteiro gave a sudden twist to the entire event. It started with a garba song, followed by Anondh Bhorit Natalam and kids rocked the floor for the Carols ‘Jingle Bell Rock’ and ‘Permission to Dance – Christmas Version.’

The programme ended with a Vote of Thanks by Joint Secretary Lexin Sequeira. She thanked the host, Secretary Disleen D’Souza, for compering the event, President Vinod Monteiro for organizing, Cultural Secretary Sharon Rego and Sujatha Thoras for taking the initiative of the Prayer Song, the Carols and the ‘Secret Santa,’ Noel Fernandes for his support in the venue arrangements, Anvita Monteiro for the Choreography and all who supported in arranging the event. She also thanked all the sponsors who made this event possible.

A sumptuous Dinner was arranged for all. Konkani Samudai Bangalore wishes one and all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2022.