Carnival for a cause

The two-day HGP Carnival at Holy Ghost Church seminary grounds, Richards Town, got off to a colourful start in Bengaluru on Saturday morning with people coming in droves to make the best of the food, fun and knick-knacks on sale at the carnival.

The carnival has food stalls, each offering different cuisine, including authentic Goan and Mangalorean dishes. Dr Gambetta Da Costa, in-charge of the Goan stall, runs a rehabilitation home for alcoholics and drug addicts. "The food for sale at this carnival is cooked, managed and sold by the boys at the centre. My idea to bring them here is to get them involved in these activities and give them a chance to mix with people. This is a way to show that people still care for them," said Dr Gambetta.
The other highlights of the carnival are performances by DJ Ivan and DJ Mario and bands like 'The Butterfingers' and 'The Bangalore Chorus'. Emcees Jonathan Smith, Jake Texeira and Sharon Chang, did well engage the crowd with games and keep the spirits running high. The many games stalls like all-day tombola, talent shows, Scavenger Hunt and Zumba had youngsters thronging them. There were also stalls selling handmade products and Christmas decorations. The carnival will also be held on November 12 from 10 am to 10 pm. The proceeds from it will go towards setting up a welfare centre for senior citizens and aspiring youth.