Pics: Nayana J C
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, Apr 10: Mandd Sobhann, widely recognised as a premier Konkani cultural organisation, has announced the first world Konkani music mega convention, scheduled to be held from November 3 to 15, in Mangaluru.
The announcement was made during the muhoorta and logo launch event held at Kalaangann in Shakthinagar on Friday, formally marking the commencement of preparations for what is expected to be a major global celebration of Konkani music and culture.
The convention logo was unveiled by Karnataka health and family welfare minister and Dakshina Kannada district in-charge minister Dinesh Gundu Rao.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including D Vedavyas Kamath, MLA of Mangaluru City South constituency, Ivan D'Souza, MLC and Michael Gracias, artiste and youth leader from Goa.
Addressing the gathering, Dinesh Gundu Rao highlighted the deep-rooted history of the Konkani community, which traces its origins to the Konkan region spanning Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka. He noted that although the community has spread across India and across the world, it continues to remain closely connected to its cultural roots.
He lauded the initiative and underscored the importance of careful planning and coordination for organising such a large-scale, multi-day international event. Expressing confidence in the organisers, he conveyed his best wishes for the success of the convention.
Speaking on the occasion, Ivan D’Souza described the initiative as a significant cultural milestone. He said the effort to bring thousands of musical compositions onto a single platform was “truly remarkable” and a major contribution to both language and culture.
He further noted that producing and presenting thousands of songs in Kannada and Konkani reflects a strong commitment to cultural preservation. He also welcomed the ambition of achieving national-level recognition, possibly even a Guinness record, and stressed the need for continued support from both the government and the public.
The convention aims to bring together Konkani artistes, musicians and cultural enthusiasts from across the globe. With large-scale musical performances and cultural showcases planned, the event is expected to strengthen cultural ties and promote Konkani heritage on the international stage.
Louis J Pinto, president of Mandd Sobhann, along with the organisation’s executive committee, has extended a warm invitation to all to participate in what is being described as a historic cultural celebration.