Independence Day celebration commenced at the new premises of the UCDC on 14th Road at 9-00 AM amidst a large gathering of Committee members, parents with their children, students, ex-students, well-wishers and staff of UCDC. Mrs. Winnie Fernandes, UCDC staff member gave a brief general introduction on the significance of the day. The Chief Guest, Mrs. Anjali Mazumdar, retired lecturer for 33 years and Vice Principal at Somaiya College, was welcomed by our Director with a bouquet of flowers and introduced her to the gathering. Mrs. Mazumdar then hoisted our National Flag after which the National Anthem was sung. She next delivered a short but eloquent speech in English and in Hindi, touching on the relevance and importance of celebrating the Independence Day, and recognizing the role UCDC is playing in actualizing the ideals of equality, democracy and development, especially to the poor and less privileged people in and around Bandra.
As is our practice every year, 5 awardees were chosen for the Awards of Appreciation for their committed association and help towards the social causes UCDC works for. The awards were bestowed on: Ms. Beryl Dias, Ms. Louella Farias, Ms. Jenny Miranda, Mr. Claver Anderson and Ms. Saroja Kanagasabai.
All of us next trooped up to the hall on the 5th Floor of the new building for the cultural programme. This consisted of songs and dances performed by our Balwadi and Tuition class children, ex-students, staff members and the mothers of the children. The people present in the hall enjoyed every moment and variety of the programmes connecting to the Independence theme.
Our emcee for the day, Mr. Claver, together with few UCDC students did a great job of compering the function.
In between the cultural items, Dr. (Fr.) Lawrence Correa, our Director, addressed the audience and spoke about the relevance of the day and how UCDC works towards bettering the lives of the not so privileged in society. He mentioned about the development taking place in the country. He also highlighted the way people blend together, giving witness to unity in diversity, in spite of the challenges faced. However, Fr. Lawrence expressed that the development needs to be inclusive. A lot of effort is required to make sure everyone has ‘Roti’, ‘Kapada’ our (and) ‘Makan’. He exhorted everyone to be committed to the ideals of Freedom, Justice and Equality. Fr. Lawrence also thanked each and every one for their presence and efforts in making the day’s event a great success.
Fr. Cosmos, our programme coordinator, did a great job of organizing the entire function and was also the man behind the camera, along with a few of the ex-students.
Our Chairperson, Mr. Sanjay Rego, proposed the vote of thanks. Snacks and a drink were served to each and every one at the conclusion of the programme.
