MASALA MAKING WORKSHOP
On Sunday, February 2nd, 2025, the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Community (OCDS) Margao, in collaboration with the Rotary Club Margao Sunrise, hosted an engaging and enriching Masala Workshop. It was a privilege to have Mrs. Sheetal Kumar, President of the Rotary Club Sunrise Margao, an educator, and Vice Principal of Vidya Vikas Academy, partner with us for this event.

The session began with a heartfelt hymn, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide and strengthen everyone present, followed by a prayer led by Rev. Fr. Marlon Rodrigues, the Superior of the monastery.

The OCDS member Leoniz Gomes welcomed the dignitaries and introduced the Resource Person Mrs. Jyoti Naik, a Masala Trainee Expert from Oorja Training and Research Academy, and along with Mrs. Manisha Naik , their expertise set the tone for an informative and interactive session focused on the rich and vibrant world of Indian spices and cuisine.

Participants were given an in-depth introduction to the art of spice blending in Indian cooking. The session included detailed hands-on demonstrations on preparing various masalas, such as those for chai, vegetables, and Tandoori dishes.

Beyond the culinary knowledge, the workshop fostered a strong sense of community. More than 70 people attended, and during the tea break, our Spiritual Assistant, Rev. Fr. Lancy Mendonca, took the opportunity to provide an insightful overview of The Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites (OCDS). He elaborated on the mission, values, and spiritual practices of OCDS, emphasizing the order’s commitment to living out the Carmelite charism in daily life. Fr. Lancy’s talk enriched attendees’ understanding of the community’s role in spiritual growth, prayer, and service, strengthening the connection to the broader vision and purpose of the organization.

The workshop concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Mrs. Elizabeth Santos, President of the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Community (OCDS), thanking the dignitaries and all attendees for their presence. As a gesture of love and appreciation, the resource persons were presented with a token of gratitude for their invaluable contributions to the event.

Dr. Anushka Rodrigues, a participant in the workshop, shared a thoughtful and insightful reflection on her experience.

More than just a cooking class, the event offered a fantastic opportunity for social interaction, cultural exchange, and skill development, leaving participants with new knowledge, lasting memories, and a deeper appreciation for the Flavors of Indian cuisine.