Media Release
Dubai, Mar 4: The stage is set and the red carpet ready as Daiji Dubai, the renowned forum of Konkani writers in the UAE, prepares to celebrate its 26th Anniversary at the Emirates International School Auditorium, Jumeirah–Dubai, on Saturday, April 11, from 6 pm onwards.
Founded in 1999 in Dubai, Daiji Dubai has hosted its annual celebrations across Dubai, Mangaluru, and Mumbai. Over the years, the ‘Daiji Anniversary’ has grown into one of the most prestigious and eagerly awaited Konkani cultural events, known for its high-quality, professionally curated entertainment and its ability to draw large audiences year after year.
To mark its 26th milestone, Daiji Dubai will present a Special Youth Achiever Award (Daiji Yuva Puraskar) to a young Konkani personality who has made significant, selfless contributions to the promotion of Konkani language, culture, and community. The selection committee is currently reviewing several deserving candidates, and the awardee will be announced shortly. This will be the second Yuva Puraskar in Daiji Dubai’s history—the first was awarded in 2008 to acclaimed drama and film director Nellu Permannur.
With the announcement of the Youth Achiever Award, many literature enthusiasts have wondered whether the prestigious Daiji Dubai Literature Award has been discontinued. Clarifying this, convener Dayan D’Souza Mukamaar emphasized that the Literature Award remains central to Daiji Dubai’s identity and will continue as usual. The Youth Achiever Award is an additional initiative this year to recognize emerging contributors to Konkani, while literature remains the organization’s foremost priority.
A major highlight of the celebration will be the staging of the widely acclaimed Konkani drama ‘Chiri – Tees Nanyanchi’, written by Fr Alwyn Serrao. The play, which has already completed 13 successful shows with 34 scheduled in total, will mark its 31st performance in Dubai. The production will be presented by the Asthitva (R) Mangalore troupe.
Directed by Christy Ninasaam, who also plays a key role, the cast includes Clanwin Fernandes, Sweedal D’Souza of ‘Bapache Puthache Navin’ fame, and Alwyn Veigas. Dubai audiences fondly remember Christy and Clanwin’s outstanding performances in the drama ‘Salgi’, and the duo is expected to deliver yet another memorable theatrical experience. Organizers encourage drama lovers to book their seats early to avoid disappointment.
Expressing heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support from the Konkani community, Dayan D’Souza Mukamaar noted that Daiji Dubai’s cultural initiatives are complemented by its commitment to meaningful social causes, inspiring individuals and organizations across the globe.
He assured that the 26th Anniversary celebration will stand out as one of the most memorable events in the Konkani cultural sphere. He also urged all Konkani enthusiasts to arrive on time, support Daiji Dubai’s noble mission, and enjoy an evening of rich cultural entertainment.