2023 Easter Celebration MUKA - Nottingham, UK

Nottingham, Apr 11, 2024

To commemorate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, over 250 Mangaloreans from across the United Kingdom gathered at Bramcote Memorial Hall on 9th April 2023 for a joyful Easter celebration. Organised by the Mangalorean United Konkani Association (MUKA), Nottingham, this event brought together community members in a vibrant display of faith, tradition, and fellowship. The celebration was a significant cultural and spiritual occasion that reinforced communal unity among Konkani-speaking Catholics in the UK.

The MUKA Easter Celebration 2023 was held at Bramcote Memorial Hall, Nottingham. It was a full-day event attended by over 250 individuals from across the UK. Organised and hosted by MUKA Nottingham, the event included a solemn religious service, a culturally rich entertainment programme, community meals, and traditional games and music. The occasion was designed to engage families of all ages and to showcase MUKA's commitment to preserving Mangalorean values and identity.

The day commenced with a Konkani Eucharistic Mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Feroz Fernandes. The altar was beautifully decorated by MUKA members, and in his homily, Fr. Fernandes emphasised the significance of spiritual renewal through Christ’s resurrection. A choir led by Mr. Deepak Alvares featured several of MUKA’s young and talented musicians, including Averil Alvares on violin, Erica D’Souza on flute, and keyboardists Alrica Sequeira, Sophia Lobo, and Chrystle Mascarenhas. All proceeds collected during the Mass were donated to Humanity Trust Charity – Belman, which supports economically disadvantaged families.

The cultural programme, hosted by Sachin Fernandes and Pritika Quadras, followed immediately after. It began with a graceful prayer dance performed by Dorothy D’Souza, Carita and Callista Sequeira, Daisy and Jaylia D’Souza, and Sophia Lobo. MUKA President Godfrey Sequeira officially welcomed the audience, and Rev. Fr. Feroz Fernandes was felicitated by Vice President Shalini Pinto and Treasurer Lydia Lewis. The event also saw the launch of a Konkani book titled “Novi Disha”, authored by Mrs. Monica Mathias.

A spirited children's fusion dance choreographed by Jenifer Fernandes and Christina Sequeira lit up the stage with performances by Aiden, Callista, Carita, Vianca, Sophia, Daisy, and Jaylia. A comedic skit performed in Konkani by Vincent D’Souza, Anitha Alvares, and Pius Rasquinha had the audience in laughter. This was followed by a vibrant group dance featuring members of all age groups, choreographed by Jenifer and Christina, set to Konkani, Kannada, and Hindi tracks.

The programme continued with live singing performances by Salvadore, Sachin, Deepak, and Averil, and another comedy act by John and Sunitha. Youth members delivered a high-energy Bollywood dance number, choreographed by Hailey, Jessica, and Aaron, featuring Jessica, Hailey, Jennifer, Freya, Sandrea, Erica, Alrica, Averil, Cristal, Jesvita, Rhea, Alroy, Aiden, Ethan, Aaron, and Sohan. A humorous skit by Vinod and Wilson from KCA UK was also well received. The highlight of the cultural segment was “Amchi Reet Amchi Rivaz”, a grand showcase of Mangalorean heritage performed by over 50 MUKA participants.

The event saw enthusiastic participation across all segments, from the religious service to cultural activities. The entire programme was managed with commendable coordination and attention to detail by volunteers, emcees, performers, and technical staff. Community members engaged actively in the day’s proceedings, including the raffle draw conducted by Stany Sequeira and drawn by Godfrey Sequeira, which added an element of excitement. A sumptuous lunch prepared by MUKA members featured authentic coastal dishes, with ‘vorn’ emerging as a crowd favourite. The afternoon segment sustained momentum with music, dance, and interactive games such as housie conducted by Edmund D’Souza and Vincent D’Souza.

MUKA extends its sincere gratitude to all sponsors, supporters, performers, volunteers, and attendees who contributed to the success of the event. Special thanks go to Rev. Fr. Feroz Fernandes for celebrating the Mass, to the KCA Manchester team for their enthusiastic participation, and to the many individuals who helped behind the scenes. The dedication of the cultural coordinators, choir members, choreographers, and kitchen volunteers was instrumental in making the day memorable and seamless.

The Easter 2023 celebration was a milestone for MUKA, reflecting the community’s commitment to preserving Konkani culture and Catholic faith in the UK. With a perfect blend of spirituality, tradition, entertainment, and community engagement, the event brought people together in a spirit of joy and unity. The day ended on a high note with the much-anticipated “Baila Blast” led by Salvadore, who had the crowd dancing to classic Konkani hits. MUKA looks forward to continuing such celebrations and extending its reach to connect more families and preserve its rich heritage.