On Monday, 8th June 2015 around 35 persons from TOGA, The Tourist Guide Association of Mumbai visited our village at around 8.30 am. They were welcomed by the committee members of the Matharpacady Residents Welfare Association and the Holy Cross Oratory. Julius Valladares and Hansel Baptista took them around the village precinct and explained the history of the various landmarks in the area alongwith the other committee members. They were taken aback on being welcomed warmly by our residents and appreciated the cleanliness and maintenance being done to preserve our area. In fact, many of them mentioned that our village scores higher points on quite a few aspects with respect to Khotachiwadi. After the tour round the village – significance of the Holy Cross Oratory, the village well, the numerous well maintained bungalows as well as a visit to the Club of Paroda – they were treated to some light snacks and cold drinks at the residence of Hansel Baptista. A short video was screened for them highlighting the various cottages and areas of the village. A small memento presented to each and every member on behalf of the village was greatly appreciated by them.
We given below a couple of messages received from some of them after their visit :
Dear Mr.D`Souza,
TOGA, the Tourist Guide Association of Mumbai, are extremely happy at the welcome and hospitality the residents of Matharpacady laid out for us today.
The love and pride you have for your heritage and the unity, bonhomie and affection between the residents will be etched in our memory forever.
We will forward your information to tour operators to make your village famous. And we will send you all the contacts essential for the preservation of your village for your next generation.
We thank you for your heartful hospitality.
Thanking you,
Yours sincerely,
For TOGA
Jerroo Bharrucha
President”
Mr Manas A – The pleasure was all ours. We had a great time & were touched with your hospitality. We will certainly ……
Mr Arun S – The whole group really enjoyed your talk and appreciated the effort of the community in making our trip a wonderful experience – Thanks once again for the effort.
Photographs : Courtesy Andrew D’Sylva
