the goan I network
QATAR
Goans in Qatar celebrated World Goa Day on Friday night with pomp and gaiety at a five-star hotel in the country’s capital in Doha.
The much-promised visit of Dr Pramod Sawant, chief minister of Goa, did not materialise but instead Deputy Chief Minister Babu Kavlekar was the chief guest at the function. However, a video message sent by the Chief Minister was shown on one of the giant screens put up a the venue.
Also in attendance were P Kumaran, Indian Ambassador to Qatar, and Ricardo Pracana, Portuguese Ambassador to Qatar.
A host of other delegates from around the world and key Goan representatives from the Gulf Cooperation Council countries were present at the six-hour long function which was compered by former footballer-turned compere Kuwait-based Gasper Crasto.
The event which is being held every year, is organised by the Goan Welfare Association in Qatar. Incidentally, the Association also celebrated its 20th anniversary this year.
World Goa Day celebration is perhaps the only global Goan event that reminds the Goan community of their identity as Goans.
The event is intended as a day for Goans worldwide to focus, take pride and celebrate their culture, language, traditions, music, cuisine, and more, wherever they are on planet earth.
The World Goa Day has now become a signature event worldwide and appears in the calendar of events of every major Goan associations worldwide.
‘Amchim Bhurgim Amcho Fuddar’ was the theme for the day. While the event highlighted Goan art, culture, traditions, language, music, costumes, etc, Rocking Goan band R99 was the star attraction for the event.
Those who performed included darling of social media Sanio Fernandes from Dubai, Avers Pereira from Muscat, Gulf Voice of Goa fame Slenzitta D’Cruz, Kuwait’s Esparansa, Natcey Barretto, Peppy Pereira, Figo Rodriguese and Viola Pereira.
