Mangalore Diocese News

By Arwin Fernandes

Nirkan - Bantwal, July 24 : The 40th anniversary of the Nirkan Unit, also known as the Ruby Jubilee year, was observed by hosting "GADYANTH EK DEES," a day of festivities set in a scenic paddy field. This event was open to all Nirkan Parishioners and took place on Sunday, 21st July 2024, commencing at 10:15 am at Harkady of St Thomas the Apostle Church, Nirkan locality.

The day started with a lively procession to the field. The procession began with the impressive entry of buffaloes, grabbing everyone's attention. Then, the eager teams participating in the games entered the field. President Rolvish Fernandes and Secretary Leesha Lobo of ICYM politely introduced the honored guests, setting the stage for the start of the formal event.

The event was graced with a hymn sung by ICYM members, blessed with a divine blessing.

Rev. Fr. Leo Lobo, the Parish priest of St Thomas the Apostle Church, Nirkan and director of ICYM Nirkan unit, gracefully presided over the inaugural function and officially inaugurated the event with a heartfelt speech. He emphasized the significance of such events in fostering unity and togetherness within the community. Furthermore, he extended his best wishes to the ICYM members for their diligent efforts in organizing and executing such a meaningful event.

Also present were Leo Fernandes, an Agriculturist; Peter Walder, the sponsor of the field for the game; Nihan Sequeira, Vice President of ICYM Central Council of Mangalore Diocese; Renita Cardoza, Treasurer of ICYM Bantwal Deanery; Alphonse Fernandes, the founding president of ICYM Nirkan; Vincent Bennis, Vice president of PPC and Animator of ICYM Nirkan Unit; Shanthi Veigas, Secretary of PPC; Austin Lobo, Coordinator of commissions, Nirkan Church; Brother Loyd D'souza; and Sisters of Holy Family Convent, as well as parishioners and local people.

A special celebration was organized to honor the main guests. Arwin Fernandes, the Amcho Yuvak representative, read out the names of the honorees, including Leo Fernandes, a distinguished agriculturist, and Peter Walder, a generous sponsor of the agricultural field. The event commenced with a lively and festive buffalo running activity in the breathtaking paddy field.

Teams were formed based on the age of the participants and they were identified through colors. Various games were played, including Running Race, Reverse Race, Dog & the Bone, Johny Walker, Throwball, Relay, Tug of War, Gadyanth Dukol, and Coconut Pass.

Team Pink, led by Vincent Bennis and Neslin Priya D'souza, emerged as the winners, while Team Green, led by Valerian Lasrado and Leesha Lobo, were the runners-up for the day. YCS and ICYM members performed a fun dance for the parishioners, and everyone joined in the spirited celebration.

Office Bearers of the ICYM Bantwal Deanery, including President - Arrol Jackson Sequeira, Loretto; Secretary - Melroy D'souza, Allipade; and Lady Vice President - Preemal Cutinha, Kuppepadav, also participated in the joyous occasion.

Rolvish Fernandes, President of ICYM Nirkan, welcomed all the attendees. Leesha Lobo, Secretary of ICYM Nirkan, conveyed a vote of thanks to all the supporters and well-wishers. Sweedal Rodrigues and Henvil Valder compered the program. The day ended with happy faces all around.