Daijiworld Media Network - Sakleshpura
Sakleshpura, June 30: In a vibrant display of literary flair and cultural pride, the Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, in association with Konkani Rakann Sanchalan, Sakleshpura unit, hosted Gramalok, a special literary programme, on Sunday, June 29 at 4 pm at Menezes Villa, Raghavendra Nagara (Balegadde), Sakleshpura, Hassan district.
Pradeep D’Souza, president of the Sakleshpura unit, extended a warm welcome to the literary contributors: G W Carlo and Ronald Monies (essays), Alphonse Mendonsa (short story), and Shanti D’Souza (folk songs). The event was chaired by literary personality H M Pernal.
Melvyn Rodrigues, convener of the Konkani Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi, delivered the opening remarks, providing an overview of the Akademi’s history since its inception in 1954. He also highlighted the various literary and cultural activities organised by the Konkani Board over the past two years.
The main literary session was chaired by Henry Mendonca, member of the Konkani Advisory Board. The session began with a poignant short story titled Kannik, presented by Alphonse Mendonsa. This was followed by two humorous essays that had the audience in splits: G W Carlo’s witty reflections on the many types of baths in Malenadu, and Ronald Monies’ entertaining piece titled Swimming Lessons.
After a short tea break, the programme transitioned to a rich cultural note with traditional Konkani folk songs (vovyo) performed by Shanti D’Souza and her talented ensemble comprising Nirmala Bryank, Sarita Menezes, Precilla Colaco, Dorothy Pais, and Jyothi Fernandes. Their performance infused the gathering with nostalgia and cultural pride.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Rakesh Menezes, member of Konkani Rakann Sanchalan, while Vincent Pais, also from the organising team, served as the compère, ensuring a seamless flow of the programme with warmth and charm.
Many attendees lauded the event, with several expressing that such initiatives not only celebrate the richness of Konkani literature and music, but also inspire the younger generation to connect more deeply with their linguistic and cultural heritage.
The event witnessed an enthusiastic turnout and left a lasting impression, marking a memorable evening of storytelling, melody, and community spirit in Sakleshpura.