Media Release

Mangaluru, Nov 13: The Carmelite Friars, along with the Carmel Choir, added a devotional and melodious touch to the historic First World Konkani Music Mega Convention held at Town Hall, Mangaluru, on Tuesday, November 10, at 6 pm.

Organised by Mandd Sobhann, the premier Konkani cultural organisation, the 12-day musical marathon commenced on November 3 and brings together singing groups from Karnataka, Goa and Kerala in an uninterrupted celebration of Konkani music. The event marks the 40th anniversary of Mandd Sobhann and is dedicated to the cherished memory of its late founder, Eric Ozario. The marathon is scheduled to conclude on November 15 at 5 pm, after a remarkable 12 days, 12 hours and 12 minutes of continuous music.

The Carmel Choir presented a selection of devotional hymns dedicated to Infant Jesus and Our Lady of Mount Carmel, most of them composed by Carmelite priest Fr Alwyn Sequeira, OCD. The choir comprised 21 singers, including two priests, nine brothers and 12 lay members. Fr Alwyn Sequeira also rendered his valuable service as one of the choir coordinators, dedicating nearly six hours each day to conducting and coordinating the singing performances at the convention.

Following the performance, the Carmelite delegation felicitated Mandd Sobhann president Louis Pinto. Fr Melwyn D'Cunha draped him with a shawl, Fr Deep Fernandes presented a bouquet, and Fr Stifan Perera, director of Infant Jesus Shrine, presented a statue of Infant Jesus as a token of appreciation.

In his response, Louis Pinto appreciated the Carmelite priests and brothers for their dedicated preparation and melodious performance. He also acknowledged the longstanding contribution of the Carmelites to the promotion of Konkani language, music and culture, recalling his close association with Mandd Sobhann and its activities.

The Carmel Choir's participation was a fitting expression of the Carmelite community's continued commitment to preserving and enriching Konkani cultural and musical heritage.