Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Aug 31: Nithyadar English Medium School, celebrated Konkani Manyata Divas on Monday, August 31, with great enthusiasm and pride today at the church hall, honouring the rich language, culture and heritage of the Konkani community.
The programme was graced by Dr Fr Ronald Serrao as the president, with Praveen Tauro, marketing manager, Daijiworld, Mangaluru, as the chief guest. Sr Pramila Rodrigues, headmistress, Jeevan Ferrao, PTA secretary, Preetha, staff secretary, and Reena, coordinator of the programme, were also present on the dais.
The dignitaries were warmly welcomed into the hall with a school band, creating a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere. The programme commenced with the hoisting of the Konkani flag, followed by a prayer song seeking God’s blessings for the celebration.
Jenifa delivered the welcome speech and extended a warm welcome to all the dignitaries, teachers, students and guests. The ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries symbolised the spreading of knowledge, unity and cultural awareness.
The inauguration of the celebration was made especially meaningful with the dignitaries participating in the traditional beats of the Gumta, adding a beautiful touch of Konkani culture to the occasion.
This was followed by the presidential address by Dr Fr Ronald Serrao who emphasised the importance of preserving our mother tongue, Konkani, and encouraged everyone to learn and speak Konkani at home. Premitha introduced the chief guest, Praveen Tauro, who then addressed the gathering. His inspiring words highlighted the importance of preserving, respecting and promoting the Konkani language and its rich cultural heritage.
A token of gratitude was presented to the chief guest as a gesture of appreciation for his gracious presence and inspiring message.
The highlight of the celebration was the colourful cultural programme, which showcased the richness and vibrancy of Konkani traditions. Konkani-speaking students enthusiastically participated in Gumta songs, traditional dances and various cultural performances. Their energetic and captivating presentations reflected their love for the Konkani language and culture and received great appreciation from the audience.
The programme concluded with the words of gratitude delivered by Laveena, who expressed sincere appreciation to the dignitaries, teachers, students, parents and everyone who contributed to the success of the celebration.
The event came to a patriotic close with the soulful rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’, leaving everyone with a deep sense of pride in our language, culture and nation.
The celebration was a memorable tribute to the Konkani language and heritage, reminding everyone that our language is not merely a means of communication, but a precious treasure that carries our history, traditions, values and identity from one generation to the next.