Daijiworld Media Network - Kasargod (SB)

Kasargod, Jul 22: ‘Gramalok’, a literary programme initiated by Sahitya Akademi in association with Badiadka gram panchayat, was held at Samskruthi Bhavan, Badiadka here on Friday July 21.

Renowned Konkani author and educationalist Dr Kasturi Mohan Pai presided over the programme.  Young poets Shweta M Pai, Venkatesh Nayak, Roshan D’Souza and Stany Bela presented their poems. Melvyn Rodrigues, convenor, Sahitya Akademi Konkani, and D Shankara, member, Badiadka gram panchayat were present.

In his presidential address, Dr Kasturi said, “I am very much delighted to stand in front of the literary gathering of Badiadka gram panchayat. Through these types of programmes, the sahitya akademi is truly engaging itself in encouraging the literary personals in the rural areas. The process should continue. I think, this is the first academy programme in Badiadka gram panchayat. From here, a series of programmes should be held and the literary personals of this panchayat should reach more poetry enthusiasts.”

Expressing gratitude on Gramaloka, D Shankara said, “Today, the Konkani community of Badiadka gram panchayat is honoured by the academy's Gramalok programme. We never ever thought that the akademi would consider our panchayat for its Konkani event. On behalf of the entire Konkani community and administration of Badiadka gram panchayat, I thank the sahitya akademi and its Konkani advisory board. Similar types of programmes should be continued in this region. As a panchayat, we are always ready to provide all facilities."

Melvyn Rodrigues elaborated the concept of Gramalok and welcomed the dignitaries and poets.