Rons Bantwal

Mumbai, Dec 10: Konkani Bhasha Mandal Maharashtra, one of Mumbai’s oldest and most reputed Konkani organizations, successfully organized the GMB Rodrigues Memorial All India Amateur Konkani Drama Competition on November 30 at Ravindra Natya Mandir Mini Hall, Behind Siddhivinayak Temple, Prabhadevi, Mumbai.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from drama teams across Goa, Sindhudurg, Mangaluru, and Mumbai. Chief guest’s for the event was well-known Konkani actor Francis Fernandes (Cascia), famed for the super-hit Mhataro Chorbela, graced the occasion as chief guest. He appreciated the Mandal’s efforts in promoting Konkani theatre in Mumbai and extended best wishes to all participants.

Inaugural ceremony president Albert W D’Souza inaugurated the competition by unveiling the photograph of late GMB Rodrigues. General secretary Lawrence D’Souza (Kamani) welcomed the gathering and highlighted GMB Rodrigues’ immense contribution to Konkani dramatics. The following members were present on the dais:

Lawrence D’Souza, general secretary; Malvin Fernandes, treasurer; Walter D’Souza, Leo Fernandes, Tony Fernandes, Pascoal Lobo, and Betty Naz Fernandes. President Albert W D’Souza, in his speech, emphasized the importance of such competitions in preserving Konkani language and uniting Konkani-speaking communities across various states.

Participating teams the competition featured six teams:

1. J J Production, Santacruz, Goa – Sutka, directed By Michael Victor Dias
2. St Xavier Ajagaon, Sindhudurg – Pormol Fulancho, directed By Alleluia Fernandes
3. Good Shepherd, Andheri West, Mumbai – Jashi Karni Tashi Bhorni, directed by Prescilla Coutinho
4. Urbest Kolakar, Borivali West, Mumbai – Poilo Mog, directed by Charles D’Cunha
5. St Aloysius, Mangaluru – Aana, directed By Flora Castelino
6. VBA Production, Aldona, Goa, Lhanvikai, directed by Valerian Antonio Fernandes

Lots were drawn to decide the sequence of performances.

Results

First prize: Sutka – J J Production, Santacruz, Goa
Second prize: Pormol Fulancho – St Xavier Ajagaon, Sindhudurg
Third prize: Aana – St Aloysius, Mangaluru

Despite close competition, the plays showcased high standards and gave the judges a challenging task.

Individual awards

Best director: Michael Victor Dais, Goa
Best actor: Prajwal Monis – Aana (Mangalore)
Best actress: Anthonet De Sousa – Sutka (Goa)
Best comedian: Clato Fernandes – Sutka (Goa)
Best make-up & attire: Cleto Fernandes – Sutka (Goa)

Judging & compering

The judging panel included Agnelo Vaz, Joel Travasso, and Reena Goveas (nee D’Souza). They were introduced by Tony Martins. Leo Fernandes Jerimeri and Tony Martins compered the programme with great professionalism. Organizing team assistant secretary Pascoal Lobo, Antony Fernandes, treasurer Malwin Fernandes, and Rosario Fernandes worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the event.