Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 29: The Konkani Natak Sabha® (KNS), Mangaluru, celebrated its 83rd Annual Day with grandeur and cultural splendour on Sunday, September 27, at the historic Don Bosco Hall, Mangaluru. Titled ‘Koglechi Yaad – Hasyancho Swaad’, the evening brought together distinguished dignitaries, veteran artistes, cultural enthusiasts and a large gathering of Konkani lovers. The overwhelming response resulted in a house-full gathering, with Don Bosco Hall packed to capacity.
The programme was presided over by Dr Rocky D’Cunha, OFM Cap, president of Konkani Natak Sabha. Roy Castelino, businessman and lay public relations officer of the diocese of Mangalore, was the chief guest. Sahakara Ratna Shri Anil Lobo, chairman of MCC Bank Ltd, and philanthropist and well-wisher Santhosh Sequeira Kankanady were the guests of honour. Sylvia D’Silva, representing MDVK, was also present as a guest.
Also present on the dais were KNS vice president Floyd D’Mello Cascia, general secretary Pamela Santos, assistant secretary Jerome Moras and treasurer Ivan D’Silva.
The formal programme began with the KNS anthem, followed by the welcome address by vice president Floyd D’Mello Cascia. General secretary Pamela Santos presented the annual report, highlighting the activities and achievements of the Sabha during the past years.
A major highlight of the evening was the presentation of the prestigious Michael D’Souza Kalakar Puraskar 2026 to three veteran Konkani artistes in recognition of their outstanding and lifelong contribution to Konkani theatre and culture. The awardees were Meena Rebimbus of Jeppu, popularly known as the Konkan Myna, Lawrence Saldanha of Urwa, and Vincent Rebello of Derebail.
Citations highlighting the remarkable contributions of the three artistes were read by Pamela Santos, Cletus Lobo and Edward Coelho. Each award consisted of a citation, memento, shawl of honour, fruits and flowers, along with a cash prize of Rs 1,00,000. The cash awards were generously sponsored by Michael D’Souza of Dubai as part of his continued support for the preservation and promotion of Konkani language, theatre and culture.
Instituted in 2014, the Kalakar Puraskar has honoured 35 distinguished Konkani artistes over the years for their valuable contribution to Konkani theatre and culture.
In his presidential address, Dr Rocky D’Cunha reflected on the rich 83-year journey of Konkani Natak Sabha and expressed gratitude to the sponsors, competition participants, patrons, well-wishers and members whose continued support keeps the Sabha active and vibrant. He also appreciated the dedicated and selfless service of the executive and managing committees of KNS.
He called upon the younger generation to come forward, actively participate in Konkani theatre and cultural programmes, and take responsibility for carrying the Konkani language and cultural traditions into the future.
Chief guest Roy Castelino spoke about the historic importance of Konkani Natak Sabha and Don Bosco Hall, which has witnessed and encouraged the talents of generations of artistes. He expressed happiness over the participation of youngsters in the various competitions conducted by KNS and encouraged more young people to take an active part in Konkani cultural activities.
Sahakara Ratna Anil Lobo, chairman of MCC Bank Ltd, also highlighted the importance of Don Bosco Hall as a vibrant centre for cultural and community activities. He encouraged the younger generation to make use of such platforms, discover and showcase their talents, and contribute to the community and its cultural traditions.
During his presidential address, Dr Rocky D’Cunha also spoke about the financial support required to continue and expand the Sabha’s cultural activities. He highlighted the newly launched ‘Kumke Hath Abhiyan’, an initiative aimed at strengthening financial support for Konkani cultural activities, and appealed to community members and well-wishers to extend their support. He also acknowledged the generous contribution of sponsors, patrons and well-wishers who continue to support the cultural mission of KNS.
The evening also featured the grand prize distribution ceremony for the winners of KNS’s various annual competitions. The winners were felicitated by the distinguished guests, with Joachim Pinto announcing the names of the awardees. The achievements of the participants received enthusiastic applause from the packed audience.
Treasurer Ivan D’Silva proposed the vote of thanks, while the formal stage programme was compered by Preetham Noronha Fajir.
The cultural programme, ‘Koglechi Yaad – Hasyancho Swaad’, was the main attraction of the evening. The programme brought together music and comedy in a special tribute to legendary Konkani composer Wilfy Rebimbus, popularly known as the Konkan Kogul.
Eight evergreen songs of Wilfy Rebimbus were beautifully presented by well-known KNS singers Ivan Sequeira of Valencia, Alwyn Noronha of Bajpe, Robin Sequeira of Valencia, Meera Florence Crasta of Bondel, and Ronald G D’Souza of Bejai. Their soulful renditions brought back memories of the legendary musician and filled Don Bosco Hall with nostalgia. The performances received a warm response from the audience.
Adding to the entertainment were lively comedy performances featuring Mellu of Valencia, Richa of Valencia, Cletus of Urwa, Sapna of Vamanjoor, Keith of Urwa and Jyothi of Bendore. Their sharp humour, lively performances and excellent comic timing kept the audience laughing and applauding throughout the programme.
The cultural programme was hosted by MC Floyd D’Mello Cascia, who brought his own energetic style, spontaneity and rich stage presentation to the evening. He kept the programme lively and engaging throughout.
The programme received valuable support from KNS manager Gerald Concessao, Mohini the KNS staff, and members of the KNS managing committee.
The attractive stage design was executed by Glanny D’Souza, Bajal, and his team. Chris Electronics handled the sound arrangements, while Benson Electricals, led by Praveen Gurpur, managed the lighting. Daijiworld Media Pvt Ltd served as the exclusive media partner for the event.
The response to the 83rd KNS Annual Day was overwhelming. Don Bosco Hall was packed to capacity, with additional chairs arranged along the aisles to accommodate the large gathering. The continuous applause, laughter and enthusiastic participation reflected the deep affection of the Konkani community for its language, theatre, music and cultural heritage.
The 83rd Annual Day of Konkani Natak Sabha® was more than an annual celebration. It was a joyful reaffirmation of the Sabha’s 83-year cultural journey, its commitment to nurturing Konkani theatre and artistic talent, and its continued efforts to preserve and promote Konkani language and culture.
The celebration also carried a clear message for the future: the rich legacy built over generations can continue to grow when the younger generation comes forward to participate, contribute and carry the Konkani cultural tradition into the future.