Pics: Jeevan D'Costa

Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Oct 29: The 18th Udupi Diocese level Konkani singing competition, organized by St John the Evangelist Church, Shankerpura ICYM Pangla unit, had a grand kickstart. The event was inaugurated by Fr Roshan D'Souza, chancellor of Udupi Diocese, along with Fr Leslie D'Souza, deanery chief of Shirva Deanery, Fr Denis D'Sa, PRO of Diocese of Udupi, Fr Prakash Anil Catelino, parish priest of Shankerpura, Fr Vijay D'Souza, co-director of ICYM, Fr Henry D'Souza, assistant parish priest of Avil Nazreth, president of ICYM Shirva Deanery Anitha D'Souza, convener John Martis, vice president of Parish Pastoral Committee Joseph Catelino, convener of 18 Commissions, Pratham D'Souza, president of ICYM Pangla and Inish Rodrigues, secretary of ICYM Pangla.

Speaking on the occasion, Fr Prakash Anil Catelino, parish priest of Shankerpura, said, "Let the fragrance of Konkani spread to the world, just like the fragrance of the Pangla jasmine. Let this event be a grand success."

Fr Roshan D'Souza, chancellor of Diocese of Udupi, said, "These Konkani singing competitions help in growing the identity of Konkani. It is a great thing that the ICYM unit of Pangla has been organizing this event for the 18th year. Music and singing help people in many ways. It's a booster dose for peace of mind. There are many psychological benefits to singing. Everyone wants to win the prizes, but if we do not get any prize, let us be happy that we have been given a stage to showcase our talents. This event is also an opportunity for ICYM members to showcase their leadership qualities."

Fr Denis D'Sa, PRO of the Diocese of Udupi, added, "I congratulate ICYM for organizing such a remarkable event for 18 years. Much more is expected from you. If this competition goes to another level in technicality and includes Mangaluru, Karwar, Chikmagalur dioceses, it will help improve the quality of the competition. I also congratulate all the trainers. Everyone has a golden voice within them. Don't give up; appreciate good performance. Give to God what is due to God, stay grounded, and remember that music is a universal language that can be used to unite people."

Fr Leslie D'Souza, deanery chief of Shirva Deanery, stated, "ICYM truly conducts this competition. There were many interruptions, but since it began here, it is still continuing. The participants' opinions and feedback are very important. I wish all the best for the competition."

Anitha D'Souza, ICYM convenor, introduced the judges, and Inish Rodrigues, secretary of ICYM Pangla, proposed a vote of thanks. Darren D'Souza and Clara Mendoca compered the program.

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