Media Release
Mysuru, Aug 19: The Konkani Christian Association (KCA) of Mysuru celebrated Konkani Manyata Divas on Sunday August 17 at Jagannatha Centre for Art and Culture, Vijayanagar 2nd Stage, Mysuru.
Manyatha Divas was inaugurated with the lighting of the lamp by the chief guests: Dr M Jagannath Shenoy, managing trustee of Mangalore Ganesh Beedi Works and Melwin Johnson Peris, a well-known Konkani music composer and singer. They were accompanied by Valerian D’Souza (Vally Vogga) a writer and Konkani Sahitya Academy Awardee, John William D’Souza, president of KCA, Stany Lobo, vice president, Anil Saldanha, treasurer and joint secretaries Sylvester D’mello and Pramila Monis on the dais. John William D ’Souza, in his presidential address briefed about the Konkani language included in the eighth schedule of the Indian Constitution on August 20, 1992 and highlighted the achievements of Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy.
In his speech, Melwin Peris highlighted the importance of Konkani language and emphasized to uphold the values which bound the Konkani families. The association congratulated Peris for his expertise in Konkani music. He is a versatile artist, multi-talented performer, an accomplished entertainer and a beacon of light in enriching Konkani Language for younger generations. He was presented with a citation, shawl, garland, fruit basket and ‘Mysuru Peta’.
Dr M Jagannath Shenoi drew the attention of the gathering by saying it’s our responsibility to contribute back to society what we have gained from it. Shenoi was presented with a citation and was felicitated for being a renowned philanthropist, a trustee to various educational institutions, a prominent industrialist and a source of inspiration to future generation. He was applauded for his charity and generosity towards the society. KCA, Mysuru wishes him continued success in all his future endeavours.
On the occasion, the most popular Konkani Film ‘Payann’ meaning ‘journey’ was screened for the first time in Mysuru city at the venue which tells the story of a struggling musician named Christopher Peris, who learns that true harmony in life extends beyond musical mastery. The narrative navigates the music industry’s challenges alongside personal perils, deception, love, suspense and ultimately, the timeless legacy an artist leaves behind.
Stany Lobo, vice president of KCA welcomed the gathering. Anil Saldanha, treasurer, proposed the vote of thanks and Meena Dias, vice president, compered the programme. Konkani residents of Mysuru along with priests and nuns attended the celebration.