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Inspiring Grand Finale Marks Conclusion of Sandesha Summer Camp 2025

Mangaluru, April 16, 2025: The Annual Sandesha Summer Camp 2025 came to a vibrant and heartwarming close with a grand finale that celebrated creativity, talent, and community spirit. The event, held at the Sandesha Foundation for Culture and Education, witnessed the participation of 152 students ranging in age from three to sixty years, making it a truly inclusive and intergenerational celebration of the arts.

Rev. Fr Sudeep Paul, Director of Sandesha, formally welcomed the gathering and set the tone for the event. In his welcome address, he highlighted the significance of the summer camp as a hallmark initiative of the Foundation, nurturing young minds through the disciplines of music, dance, theatre, art, and culture. He warmly welcomed the Chief Guest, Mr. Ashwin D’Costa, along with Mrs. Cynthia Veigas, Parent Representative, and Mr. Kamalakar Seth, Staff Representative and the seniormost staff member of Sandesha with over 50 years of experience.

Ashwin D’Costa: From Camper to Global Performer
The highlight of the event was the inspirational address by Ashwin D’Costa, an accomplished artist and software professional, who captivated the audience with his heartfelt storytelling and grounded wisdom. Reflecting on his early days as a camp participant at Mand Sobhan, D’Costa shared how those formative experiences lit the spark of passion that would later grow into a thriving artistic career.

“I was just a schoolboy, unsure of my capabilities, when I first stepped into the camp. It was during a summer camp like this that camp organisers noticed my interest in dance—and that simple recognition changed the course of my life,” he recounted. He spoke of how he went on to join Mand Sobhan’s professional dance troupe, and how those early opportunities taught him discipline, stage presence, and a sense of identity through the arts.

Ashwin’s journey wasn’t without challenges. He spoke openly about a serious physical injury that sidelined him from performance for a long period. “It was one of the hardest phases of my life, but it also became a turning point. I began to write songs, learn instruments like the guitar and ukulele, and discover a new side of myself,” he said. Today, apart from his performances, Ashwin is known for composing original music and contributing to multiple art forms.

He emphasized the value of pursuing artistic passions, even for those in demanding professions like his own. “I work as a software engineer in a fast-paced environment. But it’s the arts—music, dance, and creativity—that help me stay connected to myself, manage stress, and bring meaning to life,” he told the audience. “Let no one tell you that your artistic pursuits are secondary. They are what make you whole.”

Encouraging the young performers, Ashwin left them with an empowering message: “This stage might seem small today, but it could be your first step to the world stage tomorrow. Every note you sing, every beat you play, every move you dance—matters. So give your best, believe in your voice, and let your light shine.” His speech was met with a resounding applause, inspiring not only the campers but also parents, staff, and guests.

A Celebration of Talent and Growth
The finale showcased an impressive lineup of performances by the camp participants. From Hindustani and Western vocals to keyboard, guitar, violin, and drums, display of their drawing and paintings, students displayed the skills they had honed over the past weeks. The audience was also treated to vibrant Western dance performances and confident public speaking presentations, reflecting the campers’ creative growth and confidence.

All 152 participants were felicitated with certificates and mementos. Special recognition was given to best outgoing students for their exceptional involvement and progress. The staff and mentors were also honoured for their dedication and hard work in guiding the students throughout the camp.

Book Release Adds Scholarly Touch to the Evening
A special highlight of the evening was the release of the book Unlocking the Keys: A Simple Introduction to Electronic Keyboards authored by renowned music educator Desmond D’Cunha. The book, aimed at beginners and music enthusiasts, was introduced to the audience by the author himself, who briefly spoke about its content and purpose. Chief Guest Ashwin D’Costa officially released the book and handed over the first copy to Mrs. Cynthia Veigas, the Parent Representative, marking a significant contribution to Sandesha’s educational mission in music.

The camp’s success was a testament to the commitment of the teaching and non-teaching staff, the trust of the parents, and the boundless enthusiasm of the students.

As the curtains fell on this year’s camp, the spirit of artistic discovery, collaboration, and cultural appreciation echoed in every corner of the venue. The Sandesha Summer Camp 2025 concluded not just as an event but as a memorable chapter in the lives of its participants — a celebration of dreams nurtured, talents discovered, and hearts inspired

By Fr Sudeep Paul, msfs