Mangalore: Konkani Natak Sabha Honours Melvyn, Benna, Charles

Pics: Brijesh Garodi
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (NM)

Mangalore, Sep 23: On the special occasion of its 69th anniversary, Konkani Natak Sabha on Sunday September 23 felicitated recipient of the prestigious central Sahitya Akademi Award Melvyn Rodrigues, and dramatists Benna Ruzai and Charles Sequeira here at Don Bosco Hall, in the city on Sunday, September 23.

Acknowledging the honour, Melvyn Rodrigues said, "There is a direct influence of veteran artistes and litterateurs in my life as their works evoked interest in me and I used to come to this hall to peep in to the dramas those days."

He also stressed on the importance of recognizing young talent to build a rich Konkani literature.

Speaking after receiving the award, Benna Ruzai requested Konkani Natak Sabha to stage at least three dramas a year, based on social, spiritual and historical themes. "If implemented, it will boost young and enthusiastic writers to come forward and exhibit their talents, or otherwise writers will not even have money to buy paper and pen."

"I hope Konkani Natak Sabha will continue to provide a platform for young writers," he added.

Addressing the gathering, chief guest Lewis Pinto, former president of Mandd Sobhann said, "Konkani Natak Sabha, while celebrating its 69th year, has been a creative platform for budding writers. While many other organizations did well in the beginning years and later fell apart, Konkani Natak Sabha has motivated everyone with annual programmes and selfless works."

Guest of honour Walter Stephen Mendis, MD of Western Institute of Technology also spoke on the occasion.

Gretta Rebello, vice-president welcomed and Jerald Concessao thanked the gathering, while Sunil Menezes, general secretary presented a brief report on Konkani Natak Sabha. 

Following the stage programme, ‘Kon Ulaitha’, a contemporary social comedy drama, written by Nellu Permanur and directed by Dolla Mangalore was staged.

Alwyn Veigas, Dolphy Saldanha, Melwin Almeida, Sunil Crasta, Vernon d’Souza, Shasiraj D’Souza, Sanjith Rodrigues, Dimple Pinto, Clita Noronha, Maizy Nazareth, Judy D’Souza and other popular artistes were part of the play.