Goan communities organised different events across the UK
LONDON
Goan communities celebrated Easter by organising different events across the UK.
HAYES
Popular authentic Goan catering establishment ‘Marks Corner 77’ organised its second Easter dine and dance event at Claretian Oasis in Hayes–Middlesex on April 20. The much sought-after venue is gradually becoming quite favoured by the Goan diaspora and is within the complex of the Roman Catholic Parish of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Hayes, Middlesex.
‘Marks Corner 77’ is a catering business managed by proprietor Miguel Fernandes with the culinary skills of his wife, Viola Fernandes.
One of the highlights of the community event was the debut of a brand new Goan band ‘One-Touch Rhythm’ under the tutelage of music teacher Alfred Camara from Fatorda constituency and who plays the drums, Aaron Colaco (keyboards), Roman Fernandes (guitar), Cazvildo Pereira (bass) and Shanaya Carvalho (lead vocalist).
The dance event was headlined by ‘Jus’ Leo’ consisting of Leo Fernandes on keyboards and vocals, with Zie as the songstress with dancing skills and Valeriano Fernandes on the drums.
Noted DJ Greg Cardozo from Southall regaled the audience with different genres of popular dance music.
The Easter extravaganza was hosted by young Dylan Rodrigues hailing from Betalbatim and by Fatordekar, RJ Roque Vaz of Awaaz 99.8 FM UK’s Konkani Uloi London Fuloi Radio Show in Konkani.
Both the dynamic comperes entertained the event attendees with humour and vivacity in both Konkani and English.
A notable facet of the event was the cutting of a big chocolate cake for those persons who celebrated their birthdays and anniversaries in the month of April. RJ Bihula Vaz, Creative Director, Awaaz FM Community Radio Station, Southampton, was honoured by the main organiser Miguel Fernandes, on the occasion of her birthday.
Bihula, a special guest invite, was also a judge for some of the event contests. Another notable aspect of the event was the singing performances of young children and teenagers in both Konkani and English.
There was much excitement as spot prizes were given away for various acts. RJ Roque Vaz based some contests on the Konkani language with audience interaction, which greatly entertained the people.
Leo Fernandes, who also runs Serene Waters Guest House in Ribandar, Goa, sponsored a couple of exotic stays at their family resort. Little Ruth won a special spot prize for wearing two little red hats! Michelle and Filip Marques from Agassaim village won the Best Dancing Couple prize and young sisters Rosanne and Rhea Marques bagged a special ‘Picnic Family Getaway’ Prize at Serene Waters.
Morgan Reveredo from Raia village captured special moments on his camera for social media coverage. Bingo was organised with fantastic cash prizes. Besides a raffle with both cash prizes and consolation prizes also brought about cheerfulness and camaraderie. Libertina D’Cunha, Suil, Eltrich Fernandes, Jovy and Francis won raffle prizes.
Eusebio Rogtao won a special prize in Konkani conversation - How do you speak to fisherwoman when you visit a fish market in Goa.
Alvito Dias, President of United Goans of Fatorda UK, offered the grace before meal. Snacks (Egg Puffs, Chicken Roll, Veg Spring Roll) were served and a lavish authentic Goan buffet consisting of Carrot Pulao, Chicken 65, Pork Solantulem also known as Pork Amsol, Channa Masala (Chonnea Ros) and Green Salad along with a dessert of Fruit Custard was the culinary delight.
The event was a big hit among those who attended with guests wishing one another a joyous Easter.
MILTON KEYNES
The Milton Keynes Goan Community hosted its 2nd Annual Easter Dine & Dance on April 21 at the Denbigh Sports and Social Club Hall for an evening of celebration, music, and unity.
Entertainment for the night was headlined by RE-SYNC, a collaboration between solo performer Reman Fernandes and DJ Synclair Varella, who kept the atmosphere electric. The event was compered by Simon Varella, a well-known figure in the Goan social circuit.
Guests enjoyed a delicious buffet prepared by MC Clesscia D'Costa and Candida Pereira of Iconic Caterers, which added a highlight to the festivities.
The celebration wasn’t just for adults, children aged 5–12 were treated to a fun-filled Easter egg hunt, while spot prizes were handed out to both kids and adults throughout the evening. A lively raffle draw and a round of bingo brought added excitement and friendly competition.
In a touching moment of reflection, guests observed a minute of silence in memory of the Holy Father, Pope Francis, followed by the recitation of a decade of the Rosary for his soul. The event opened with a heartfelt prayer led by Anne D'Mello, and Rositta Lawrence offered the grace before meals.
Othelia Fernandes, Chairperson of the MK Goan Community, welcomed everyone and spoke about the mission and growing presence of the community in Milton Keynes. She extended a special invitation to new attendees, encouraging them to participate regularly in future community events.
Though relatively new, established just two years ago, the Milton Keynes Goan Community has already become a vibrant hub, actively supporting the social, religious, and cultural needs of local Goans. In a significant milestone, the community was recently recognised as one of the Konkani Mass centres under the Goan Chaplaincy UK.
ASHFORD
The BFS Events under the banner of United Friends London/UK organised the 2nd Easter Light at St Michael's Catholic Church Hall, Ashford, in London on April 20. The event was sold out, with around 200 guests attending the event.
UK’s popular Goan Band ‘Rhythm Mates ’, solo performer, Jewella Barreto and DJ Jonathan Barreto provided entertainment for the event. Simon Varella, a popular MC for Goan social events, compered the event.
A sumptous buffet spread for the event was catered by Fredy Wilfred Carvalho of Mum’s Delight Caterers.
BFS Events and United Friends London/UK have been organising the St Francis Xavier’s Feast Dance for the last nine years in December, New Year’s eve dinner and dance and Easter light dance since the past two years in a row.
The organisers have their regular customers and friends who attend their events. United Friends London/UK offered a thanksgiving mass in the month of February at St David's Catholic Church in Stanwell, London.
The United Friends London/UK was established in August 2017, and the team comprises Sonia Antao (President) and other members include Brito Carvalho, Gudencio Fernandes, Vallen Fernandes, Savio Fernandes, Sanjay Andrade and Fredy Carvalho.
An Easter raffle draw was held at the event and three grand prizes were given out for the raffle draw. In addition, a round of bingo was also played.
“Our regular guests keep requesting us to organise Goan social events as they know that we give value for their money. So, their love and support give us motivation, and they keep attending our events,” says Sonia Antao, BFS Events and United Friends London/UK.
Fredy Wilfred Carvalho of Mum’s Delight Caterers, a team member of BFS Events and United Friends London/UK, added, “Most of our events are always sold out in spite of so many other shows held on the same day in UK. Our motivation comes from our regular friends and well-wishers.”
“Part of the proceeds of our events go to help our people from the Goan Community either in UK or back home in Goa, mainly the sick and needy. We help mostly individuals rather than charity organisations or institutions.”
WEMBLEY
The Goa Foundation U.K. organised an Easter Community get-together in Wembley.
The event, which was attended by about 130 people, was organised by Joston Fernandes, hailing from Santa Cruz, who has formed the Goa Foundation UK, as a charity venture. Brent Councillor Ajmal Akram and Ciana D'Costa were the special invitees at the event.
The programme began with a prayer service led by Gloria Soares. Later, a game ‘Passing the Easter Hat’ was conducted for the gathering. Music was provided by Polly de Curtorim (one-man band), DJ Sanford and DJ Johnson, while Joyce de Souza was the compere at the event.
The programme included games for children, cutting of the Easter cake, and a raffle draw. The food was prepared and sponsored by Mario and Josefa.
Joston Fernandes later addressed the gathering and spoke about the nature and purpose of his organisation.
Later speaking to The Goan, Joston said the Easter get-together was aimed at bringing along Goans to raise awareness to help those in need.
“At present, I am leading the organisation along with a friend, Remigio De Oliveira. We plan to register the organisation as a charity after building up members. We plan to continue with different charitable programmes, and we appeal for everyone’s support,” said Joston.
HOUNSLOW
Charity events were organised by Malcolm Silveira (Sao Estevam), and Mario da Costa (Usgao) on April 19 (after Mass) and April 20, where part of the proceeds went towards scholarships for needy students of St Joseph’s high school at Usgao-Ganjem.
The event was highlighted by Mark Revlon and supported by Peyton Pires (Mog zhallo maka fame) and the band ‘Reunion’. The comperes at the events were Mc Swiston and Mc Pontes
The event was also supported by Alistair D’Sa (Fish Anchor) and Delvyn Gracias.
“This was the second Easter Ball held, and we aim to have it every year,” said Malcolm Silveira.
OTHER EVENTS
The Goan Association UK celebrated Easter at The Thomas Wall Centre in Sutton. Music was provided by DJ Dylan and the band ‘Simply Amazing Duo’.
The Goan Chaplaincy Swindon celebrated the 6th Annual Chaplaincy ‘Traditional Easter Dance’ at the Punjab Community Centre in Swindon. Music was provided by the band ‘Shades’.
An Easter Party was organised by the United Goans of Wembley at the Sudbury Primary School in Wembley. The highlight of the event was the crowning of the King & Queen.
An Easter Ball was organised at the Takaa Tak Banqueting in Hounslow. Music was provided by the Popcorn Mix and DJ Brianro. The comperes were Rishma and Joanro.
The Rising Goans UK organised the Easter Dine & Dance in support of the Goan Chaplaincy UK. Music was provided by ‘Popcorn Mix’ and DJ LX MC Russel.
Sixwiz Events hosted the Easter Ball Bash 3.0 Dine & Dance at the Heston Catholic Social Club. The event began with a Konkani Mass celebrated by Fr Renato. Music was provided by DJ Enrico and the band ‘Legacy’.
