Kuwait City: The Konkani movie Fondacho Misther made history in Kuwait with four simultaneous houseful premiere shows on August 28 at Ozone Cinema, Khaitan. The event was organised by Kuwait Canara Welfare Association (KCWA) and received an overwhelming response from the Konkani community.
The comedy-drama, directed by Rayan Magneto, has already completed over 100 successful shows in coastal Karnataka and continues to draw audiences in the Gulf region. The film, which carries a social message along with humour, was released earlier on April 25 in Mangaluru and Udupi.
The premiere in Kuwait turned into a cultural celebration, highlighting the unity of the Konkani-speaking community abroad. All four shows on the opening day ran to packed audiences, reflecting the growing popularity of Konkani cinema outside India.
Director Rayan Magneto, who also plays a role in the film, earlier earned success with his debut movie Lucky Draw 777. The film has been written and produced by Melwyn Pernal, with music by Prajoth D’Sa of Udi Udi fame and cinematography by Allwyn Sequeira. The song Dektana Tuka has already gained popularity among fans. The cast includes several well-known actors from coastal Karnataka, with Lucy Lobo Aranha playing a key role and Aravind Bolar making a special appearance.
The evening began with a formal inauguration, hosted by MC Deepak Andrade. KCWA President Prakash Godwin Pinto joined the core committee members and Abbasiya Konkani Families Kuwait President Norbert D’Souza to welcome the guests. Fr. Avil Rosario, Spiritual Director of KCWA, and several sisters from local congregations were also present.
The dignitaries cut a cake to mark the grand opening of the premiere. In his address, Fr. Avil Rosario said the film is a proud moment for the global Konkani community and hoped that Konkani cinema would continue to grow and give more opportunities to artists.
KCWA also honoured Ozone Cinema operator Salman with a bouquet for his support.
Actor Lucy Lobo, who is also active in cultural activities in Kuwait, expressed her gratitude to director Rayan Magneto for casting her in the film and thanked KCWA and the audience for their encouragement. She also acknowledged the sponsors who made the premiere possible.
Core Committee Coordinator Naveen Mascarenhas delivered the vote of thanks, appreciating the sponsors, volunteers, and media teams whose efforts contributed to the success of the event.
Audiences praised Fondacho Misther for its witty dialogues, comic timing, and emotional storytelling. Many said the film offered both laughter and a meaningful message, making it a well-rounded entertainer.
