LONDON
The vibrant spirit of India and the deep-rooted faith of the Goan community came together in an evening of culture, unity, and celebration, as Iconic Events & Entertainment UK Ltd hosted their second major event ‘Spirit of the Nation & Feast of the Assumption’ in Milton Keynes, England on August 16 from 5 pm to 11pm.
The event marked the 79th anniversary of Indian Independence and the observance of the feast of Our Lady of the Assumption. The evening offered a rich blend of cultural traditions, faith, music, and community spirit, drawing attendees from across Milton Keynes, Northampton, Reading, Swindon, Neasden, and other parts of London.
The event opened with the traditional Litany in Konkani, followed by the customary serving of chonne (boiled grams with fresh coconut), a Goan tradition that added an authentic cultural touch.
The entertainment line-up featured live performances by RE-SYNC, with Reman as one-man solo performer, and music sets by popular UK-based DJ’s Synclair Varella and Franky Fernandes with lively fusion of Goan, Bollywood, and Western musical influences. Emcee Simon Varella kept the audience engaged throughout the evening.
A buffet dinner, included in the ticket, was catered by MC Clesscia D’Costa and Candida Pereira of Iconic Caterers, with snacks served earlier in the evening. Attendees also enjoyed interactive elements such as spot prizes for best-dressed male and female in traditional attire, a raffle draw, bingo rounds, and a lucky ticket prize.
Fr Anthony Adeboyejo, visiting priest at St Augustine’s Roman Catholic Church, Milton Keynes cut the cake at the event. Fr Anthony addressed the gathering with warm wishes, commending the community for upholding their cultural and spiritual heritage.
Organisers Reman Fernandes and Simon Varella expressed their gratitude to those present at the event, stating that their aim was to unite the community under the Spirit of the Nation to honour India’s traditions, celebrate their freedom, and strengthen their faith through a night of shared joy.
Iconic Events & Entertainment UK Ltd had previously hosted the Carnival Spectacle in March.