Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 3: The Konkani Natak Sabha (KNS), in association with Kavita Trust, successfully organised the 24th Konkani Poetry Recitation Competition for children, youth and senior participants at Don Bosco Hall, Mangaluru, on Sunday, August 2, as part of KNS's prestigious annual competitions.
The event celebrated the beauty of Konkani poetry and literature while providing a vibrant platform for participants to showcase their talent. The competition once again reflected the shared commitment of KNS and Kavita Trust towards preserving, promoting and nurturing the rich literary heritage of the Konkani language.
The programme commenced with the KNS anthem, followed by a warm welcome by Dr Rocky D'Cunha OFM Cap, president of KNS. In his address, he encouraged the participants to recite with confidence, passion and expression, and wished them success in the competition.
Melvyn Rodrigues, founder of Kavita Trust, addressed the gathering and spoke about the long-standing association between Kavita Trust and KNS in organising the annual poetry recitation competition. He then explained the competition rules, introduced the panel of judges and extended his best wishes to all the participants.
The competition was formally inaugurated with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp by Dr Rocky D'Cunha OFM Cap, president of KNS, Melvyn Rodrigues, founder of Kavita Trust, Floyd D’Mello Cascia, vice president of KNS, Jerome Moras, assistant secretary, Ivan D'Silva, treasurer, along with the judges and competition convener Joachim Pinto.
The performances were evaluated by a distinguished panel of judges comprising renowned Konkani poets Vincent Pinto (Angelore), Felcy Lobo (Derebail) and Smitha Shenoy, who carefully assessed the contestants.
The competition witnessed an enthusiastic response, with 56 participants competing across three categories — Below 15 Years (Children), 15 to 30 Years (Youth) and Above 30 Years (Seniors). The participants impressed the audience with their expressive recitations, confident stage presence and deep appreciation for Konkani literature.
The smooth conduct of the event was made possible through the dedicated efforts of KNS manager Gerald Concessao. Members of the KNS Angelore unit, Bajjodi unit, Kavita Trust, along with the KNS Managing Committee, worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the programme was organised flawlessly.
The programme was compered by Maxim D'Souza (Angelore). Melvyn Rodrigues announced the results, while Joachim Pinto proposed the vote of thanks.
The competition once again reaffirmed Konkani Natak Sabha's unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting the Konkani language, literature, art and culture while providing an inspiring platform for young and emerging talent to flourish.
Results
Below 15 Years (Children)
- First Place: Ninisha Prisha Monteiro, Bondel
- Second Place: Angel Meghan Cutinha, Hospet
- Third Place: Nishel Pearl Monteiro, Bondel
Consolation Prizes
- Aanya D'Sa, Miyapadavu
- Siana Veigas, Bajjodi
- Elrin Rishak D'Souza, Cascia
15–30 Years (Youth)
- First Place: Elvin D'Sa, Shirthady
- Second Place: Princia D'Souza, Neermarga
- Third Place (Joint): Ashlyne Vismaya Lobo, Neermarga and Alrisha Velani Rodrigues, Gurpur
Above 30 Years (Seniors)
- First Place: Preethan Renita Pereira, Derebail
- Second Place: Irene Mendonca, Cascia
- Third Place: Lavita D'Souza, Nakre