Mangalore: Symposium Throws Light on Various Aspects of Wilfy's Works
Report: Stanley Bantwal
Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore
Mangalore, Dec 5: A symposium was organized on the songs and literature of Konkan Kogull, the late Wilfy Rebimbus on the Sunday December 4 on the occasion of the third anniversary of Naman Ballok Jesu, a Konkani monthly published by Infant Jesus Shrine.
Konkan Maina Meena Rebimbus, wife of the late Wilfy was the chief guest while Dr Archibald Gonsalves, Provincial, presided over the function.
The programme began at 5.30 pm with a welcome dance. Tributes were paid to Wilfy, after which Fr Stephen Pereira, editor of Naman Ballok Jesu welcomed the gathering, mainly writers, poets, benefactors of the magazine and well-wishers among others.
The symposium was moderated by the well-known Konkani poet Melvyn Rodrigues. The first paper was presented by Konkani writer Dolphy Cassia on the socially revolutionary aspects in Wilfy’s songs. Concepta Alva elaborated on the place that Wilfy gave to women in his literature, highlighting the affectionate way in which he portrayed women. Dr Pius James D’Souza likened Wilfy to the Psalmist, in his paper explaining the presence of the Word of God in Wilfy’s songs. The papers were very informative and enlightening. A few writers namely Eddi Siker, Edi Netto and Herolpius shared their comments after the presentation.
Fr Provincial heaped honours on the late Wilfy and praised Fr Stephen for organizing this great event, the first of its kind, and acknowledged that it would go a long way in promoting Konkani and reiterated the commitment of the Carmelites to this cause.
Vishwas, son of Wilfy thanked the Carmelites for organizing this event in honour of his father. Wilfy’s troupe presented a few of his songs, while the Brothers also presented a song and a dance. Deacon Rajesh compered the programme while Br Cyril thanked the gathering. The event ended with supper.