Dubai: Countdown has begun for Mangalore Konkans’ UAE-level 'Vividh Vinodaval Spordho' - a group talent contest to be held on Friday October 16, from 3:30 pm to 10 pm at JSS School Auditorium (behind Gulf News building) Dubai.

Eight teams will participate in the contest on the themes of patriotism, peace and harmony, save environment and social Issues to bag the coveted prize.

The contest will be judged by competent judges from India as well as UAE who will assess the team’s performance based on originality, creativity, presentation, team involvement and moral/social message conveyed through selected theme for the performance.

The winners will walk away with Dhs 3,000 and trophy whereas the first and second runners-up will get Dhs 2,000 and Dhs 1,000, respectively, and trophies. Best MC, Best Male Artiste, Best Female Artiste and Best Child Performer in the teams will be recognized and awarded with trophies at the event.

The organizing committee led by Arun and team and president of the organization Alwyn Pinto are confident that the event will indeed be a unique and successful group talent contest as it was two years ago. The buzz and interest surrounding the event is expected to draw a huge crowd at the venue and all the arrangements are in place for the event. "The collective efforts of ever energetic members of Mangalore Konkans, undoubtedly make this event a memorable experience for all," they said. The entry to the event is free and a crowd of more than 800 is expected to witness this keen contest among the teams.

'Vividh Vinodaval Spordho' as it is called, this unique group talent contest which mandatorily includes dance, a skit and a master of ceremony (MC) in each group's performance is aimed to foster creativity and provide platform for the participants to display their talents. The contest which was held previously in 2013 drew wonderful response from the audience as well as the participants. This year too, the contest aims to enthrall the participating crowd. The organizers have invited all the members Konkani speaking community residing in the UAE to be part of this extravaganza.