Konkani Community Celebrates with Screening of ‘Crazy Mogi’ in Qatar

The Konkani community in Qatar gathered on December 12, 2023, for a memorable evening celebrating the silver anniversary of World Goa Day. The highlight of the event was the screening of the award-winning film Crazy Mogi, held at the Asian Town Qatar Cinema No. 1, which captivated the audience for nearly three hours with its humorous take on love and sacrifice.

Organized by the Goan Welfare Association (GWA), under the leadership of Simon D’Silva, the event aimed to commemorate 25 years of fostering Goan culture and community spirit. The film, produced by A. Durga Prasad and directed by Christ Silva, has garnered significant acclaim, winning 14 awards at the 12th Goa State Film Festival and receiving positive feedback from audiences in Dubai and London.

The evening began with a short stage program hosted by emcee Reena Castelino, who welcomed attendees with an engaging introduction. The chief guest, Aloysius D’Souza, a prominent community leader and outgoing president of the Konkani Speaking Community of Our Lady of Rosary Church, praised the GWA for their dedication to promoting Konkani culture in Qatar. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate the milestone of World Goa Day with the community.

D’Souza emphasized the importance of unity among Konkani associations, stating, “Unity is essential to effectively serve our community.” He reflected on his long-standing friendship with Simon D’Silva and their shared commitment to enhancing the presence of Konkani cinema in Qatar. His remarks highlighted the significance of collaboration among various associations to strengthen cultural ties.

During the event, an audio-visual message from Rene Barretto, founder of World Goa Day, was shared with attendees. Barretto commended the GWA for its dedication to organizing the celebration and thanked Simon D’Silva for his 25 years of commitment to bringing Goans together globally.

The atmosphere was further enriched by the joyous performances of veteran actor John D’Silva, who captivated the audience with his portrayal of the film’s quirky characters. Following the screening, the GWA honored key figures, including director Christ Silva and newly appointed chairman Mansingh Rane, with mementos and shawls for their contributions to the community and the arts.

Cultural director Effey Noronha proposed a vote of thanks, recognizing the support of sponsors and well-wishers, including title sponsor Concord Vision and co-sponsor Just Buzz Home Services. She expressed appreciation for the collective efforts that made the evening a success in promoting the Konkani language and culture.

The film Crazy Mogi explores the complexities of love and relationships through a comedic lens, resonating with many in the audience. Its themes of self-discovery and emotional sacrifice struck a chord, making the screening a highlight of the evening.

As the event concluded, the GWA announced plans for their upcoming 26th annual May Queen Ball, set to take place in May 2026, promising to continue the tradition of celebrating Goan culture and community spirit. The evening served as a powerful reminder of the vibrant Konkani community in Qatar and their dedication to cultural preservation and celebration.