LONDON
Dublin came alive with rich sounds, energy and the unmistakable spirit of Goa as the Goan Association Ireland, in collaboration with the concept and initiative of Cajie D’Costa, presented ‘Konkani Songitachi Sanz’, an evening dedicated to Konkani music, talent and Goan culture.
The event brought together Goans from across Ireland and even the UK to celebrate music, friendship and community. With a houseful audience, the event demonstrated the continuing love and appreciation for Konkani music among Goans living away from their homeland
Even before the main programme began, the audience was treated to a musical presentation by a five-piece band performing a selection of classic melodies.
Maria D'Costa and Doris Fernandes announced and introduced the participants during the programme, and their engaging presentation helped create a lively atmosphere.
Celebration of Konkani talent
One of the major highlights of Konknni Songitachi Sanz was the line-up of singers.
The stage brought together young emerging talents as well as seasoned Tiatrists, with many performers presenting their own original Konkani songs. Their different styles, voices and experiences gave the programme a variety.
Comedian Jane had travelled from the United Kingdom, while others came from different parts of Ireland. Their willingness to travel and participate demonstrated the importance of Konkani music as a bond connecting Goans across borders.
The evening showcased an array of Konkani singing talent, bringing together both established performers and emerging voices. The audience enjoyed performances from Maria D’Costa, Meeta, Marina Vaz, Jose Menezes, Jane V. Colaco, Sydney Dias, Savira Dias, Doris Fernandes, Rosario Fernandes, comedian Jane, comedian Dorothy, Elita Fernandes, Owena Fernandes, and Cajie D’Costa.
Adding a special dimension to the programme was the presentation of original Konkani songs composed by Jose Menezes and Cajie D’Costa. Their compositions provided the artistes with fresh material while contributing to the continued growth and promotion of Konkani music in Ireland.
The singers were supported by a group of musicians who provided the musical backbone of the programme. They included Austin Fernandes (trumpet), Josley Goes (keyboard), Tremson Fernandes (drums), Jolston Dias (lead guitar), and Edwin Lemos (bass guitar).
The musicians delivered an energetic and versatile performance, beginning with a selection of classic melodies before accompanying the singers throughout the evening.
Music was not the only attraction of the evening. The musical performances were complemented by a lively comedy segment featuring Comedian Pitush, Comedian Jane, Comedian Dorothy, Elita Fernandes, Owena Fernandes and Roland Pereira.
Pitush and his team, who travelled from Wicklow, brought plenty of humour and entertainment to the packed venue, giving the audience an opportunity to relax, laugh and enjoy another much-loved element of Goan entertainment.
Together, the singers, musicians and comedians created a programme that celebrated the full spectrum of Goan entertainment — music, comedy, creativity and community spirit.
A special comedy side show was presented by Pitush and his team, who travelled from Wicklow to entertain the audience. Their comic presentation brought plenty of laughter and provided a lively change of pace between the musical performances.
The combination of music, comedy and audience interaction helped make the evening a complete entertainment experience.
Venisa Kitchen Catering ensured that the audience could enjoy some much-loved Goan favourites along with hot tea and coffee.
The aroma and taste of traditional treats added another special Goan touch to the evening, allowing many in the audience to enjoy not only the sounds of Goa but also a taste of home.
Community support behind scenes
The organisers received assistance from many members of the community.
Particular appreciation was expressed for the support received from Rollyson Luis, Aldrin Rego, Vanford Fernandes, Ciaanna Pereira, Velinda Fernandes & Salusinho Rodrigues, whose contribution helped the programme come together successfully. Meeta, the event coordinator, worked to ensure that the programme moved smoothly.
A significant and sponsor supporter of the programme was Clint Esteibeiro, who heads and leads Skystaffing Agency. Clint later presented certificates to the participating artistes, recognising their contribution to the evening.
The Goan Association Ireland was lauded for ensuring that the event was a free entry for all in our audience in Dublin.
Dubs AV provided the sound and lighting for the event, while Leejoy Pereira managed the sound management. Monica Mathias handled the photography for the event.
Another major attraction of the evening was the house with an impressive €500 prize. The prize was sponsored by Orane Beauty School, Goa. The prize was presented by Josephine Diniz.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated group of volunteers, together with the energetic Gen Z team, played an important role in making the Housie a success. They worked enthusiastically to promote and sell the Housie tickets and engage with members of the community.
Their commitment, enthusiasm and willingness to give their time demonstrated the spirit of community volunteering and intergenerational teamwork within Goan Association Ireland.
‘Wherever Goans live, Goan culture continues to bring us together’
The Goan Association Ireland (GAI) committee stated that Konkani Songitachi Sanz was a celebration of Goan identity, proving that wherever Goans may live, the music of Goa continues to bring them together.
The GAI conveyed its appreciation to everyone who contributed to the success of Konknni Songitachi Sanz. The GAI committee comprising Milton Vaz (president), Noel D'Souza (vice president), Ajoy Fernandes (Honorary President), Richie D’Silva (Sr Advisor), and Aldrin Coutinho (attorney) expressed gratitude to Cajie D’Costa for bringing the event to life and for working together with GAI to create an evening centred around Konkani music and Goan culture.
The GAI thanked every singer, musician, comedian, technical crew member, coordinator, sponsor, caterer, volunteer and supporter who played a role in the programme.
They also extended their appreciation to those who travelled from the UK, Wicklow, Galway, Mayo, Wexford and different parts of Ireland to be part of the celebration.
They further acknowledged Clint Estibeiro and Skystaffing Agency for their sponsorship and thanked the many members of the Goan community who supported the event in numerous ways.
“This was not simply a programme on a stage. It was a celebration of who we are. Our music, our language, our humour, our food and, most importantly, our togetherness are what keep our Goan identity alive. The tremendous response and the packed house have shown us that Konkani music has a strong and beautiful future in Ireland,” said GAI Attorney Aldrin Coutinho.
“With the venue filled to capacity, the event became more than just a musical programme. It became a gathering place for families, friends, artists, supporters and Goans from different parts of Ireland and beyond. It showed that Konkani music continues to have a special place in the hearts of Goans, regardless of where they now live.”
Aldrin said the event also provided a platform for younger artists to stand alongside experienced performers, ensuring that the tradition of Konkani music continues to reach a new generation.
“The success of Konkani Songitachi Sanz was not achieved by the organisers alone. Goans from across Ireland, the United Kingdom and even Goa came forward to promote and market the programme.”
Aldrin said the effort created a wonderful cross-border Goan connection, with people in different countries coming together to support an event celebrating Konkani music and Goan culture.
“We thank everyone who bought a ticket, travelled to the venue, applauded an artiste, supported a singer, enjoyed the food, participated in the Housie or simply came along to spend an evening with fellow Goans. They made this evening what it was.”
“Konkani Songitachi Sanz was ultimately a celebration of Goan identity — proving once again that wherever Goans may live, the music of Goa continues to bring us together,” Aldrin added.
