Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi
Udupi, Sep 17: Ashawadi Prakashan organised the 'Ashawadi Sahitya Sambhrama', featuring a book release, felicitation of senior writers, a Konkani poetry session, and a quiz at Joan of Arc, Katapadi.
The programme commenced with a prayer song by Cynthia, Frieda, and their team. Sweeny Rodrigues welcomed the gathering.
Multi-award-winning Konkani poet, writer, and critic Andrew L D'Cunha, multilingual writer Muddu Moodubelle, Agnel Rodrigues from Dubai, multilingual writer Catherine Rodrigues, and Ashawadi Prakashan publisher Valli Quadras were present on the dais as chief guests.
Speaking on Ashawadi KBS (Konkani Beyond Script), Andrew L D'Cunha said, "Language is a medium to express human emotions. Our mother tongue is a verbal boon passed down from our ancestors. Many writers have rendered invaluable service and made sacrifices for the Konkani language. As Konkani is written in five different scripts across regions, Ashawadi Prakashan is working as a bridge to unite writers."
Multilingual writer Muddu Moodubelle, who released the book, delivered his message in Konkani despite his mother tongue being Tulu, and also recited a Tulu poem.
Publisher Valli Quadras noted, "Although we have published over 100 books, most are in the Kannada script. For the growth of Konkani, love and service towards the language should take precedence over the script." He added that the essence of rural life is beautifully captured in the works of Catherine Rodrigues and the late Kevin D'Mello.
During the event, Joel Quadras, Wilfred R Pangla, and Catherine Rodrigues were felicitated by Ashawadi Prakashan. Konkani critic Nanu Marol Thottam conducted the felicitation proceedings, while Steven Alva presented the honours.
A poetry session was held, featuring recitations by Dr Vijay Kumar Pai (Kerala), Dr Flavia Castelino (Manipal), Eliza Fernandes, Meena Monteiro, Violet Flavy, Catherine Rodrigues, Muddu Moodubelle, Wilfred R Pangla, Melvin J Vas Kelarai, Valli Quadras (Pune), Andrew L D'Cunha (Mangaluru), and Salomi Mogarnad. Salomi presided over the poetry session and also conducted the Konkani quiz. Valli Quadras distributed prizes to the winners.
Loretta Monteiro and Rayzel Furtado compered the programme. Also present on the occasion were parish priest Fr Rajesh Prasanna, Holycross Counseling director Fr Preetham Joy Menezes, parish pastoral council vice president Hector Fernandes, and secretary Teresa Lobo, among other members.
Catherine Rodrigues proposed the vote of thanks and honoured the supporters by presenting them with saplings. A fellowship meal was arranged for all the attendees.