ST. DOMINIC ASSOCIATION NEWS:

St Dominic Church Ashoknagar Baal Competition, 25/12/2025

The St. Dominic Association proudly hosted the “Ashoknagar Baal Competition 2025 & Musical Night” on the evening of December 25, 2025. Organized to strengthen the Association’s Educational Fund for underprivileged students, the event also served as a heartfelt tribute to the late Mr. Richard Gonsalves, fulfilling his cherished dream of hosting such a competition. The program commenced with a prayer song and a vibrant welcome dance, with the stage graced by Rev. Fr. Daniel Veigas (Parish Priest), Rev. Fr. Meckenzie Mendonsa (Assistant Parish Priest), Mr. Praveen Madtha (Chief Guest), Mr. Maxim Crasta (Vice President), Mrs. Debbie Locker (Secretary), and Mrs. Meera Mendonsa (Coordinator of 21 Commissions). Also seated on the dais were St. Dominic Association leaders Mrs. Sujatha Mendonca (President), Mr. Alwyn Pinto (Secretary), and Mr. Sathish D'Souza (Convener of the Baal Competition). Joining them in a special place of honor were the family members of the late Mr. Richard Gonsalves, Mr. Rupel Gonsalves, Mr. Russel Gonsalves, and Mr. Vincent Gonsalves.

Following a warm welcome by Mrs. Sujatha Mendonca, a moving Shradhanjali featured an eulogy, a farewell song, floral tributes, and a candlelight vigil. The program also recognized the selfless community service of Mrs. Elveera D'Souza and Mr. Praveen Madtha through formal felicitations, followed by insightful keynotes from Mr. Maxim Crasta, Mrs. Elveera D'Souza, Mr. Praveen Madtha, and Rev. Fr. Daniel Veigas. The focal point of the evening was the Baal Competition, moderated by Shaina D'Souza and evaluated by judges Mr. Roshan Pinto, Mrs. Renilda Mascarenhas, and Mrs. Roshal Fernandes. Between competition rounds, the audience enjoyed engaging cultural dances and musical performances by talented parishioners, hosted by Vinol D’Souza. In a spirited contest, Sarah Evana D'Souza was declared the winner, with Darren Pais and Nathan Dominic Barboza securing the first and second runner-up positions, respectively. The event, beautifully was compered by Mr. Vijay Pinto and Ms Michelle D’Souza, concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Alwyn Pinto and a dinner blessed by Rev. Fr. Meckenzie Mendonsa, successfully uniting the community for a noble cause.