Pics: Umesh Marpalli
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Aug 23: The two-day Karnataka State Konkani Sahitya-Samskriti Sammelan (literary and cultural convention), headed by film actor, director, and former president of state Konkani Sahitya Academy Kasargod Chinna, was inaugurated on Saturday August 23, at RSB Auditorium, Manipal here amidst much fanfare.

This is the first time the event is being held in the district to cultivate Konkani literature and culture. The programme was inaugurated by Sham M Krishna Rao, noted writer from Bangalore.

In his inaugural speech, Rao said that the Saraswat community has a vast historical background. He praised the work done by Chinna and said that he stands as a pillar to create awareness about Konkani culture and its development among people.

Renowned journalist M V Kamath said, "Every language is different in its features and each has its own significance," and wished the event all success.

Kasargod Chinna said that it was an auspicious moment that would bring 21 different Konkani groups under one roof. “Konkani is an unbiased language; there are no external barriers. Konkani should be given national status," he urged.

P Dayananda Pai, businessman, released an audio compilation, while Gopal Pai, Kendra Sahitya Academy awardee, released a book, and Gokuldas Nayak inaugurated the home decoratives shop.

Jayanth Kaikini, famous poet and writer, Upendra Nayak, former ZP president Chempi Ramachandra Bhat, Dr Gerald Pinto of Milagres College, Kallianput, Dinesh Prabhu, president, Kudal Desi community, Manoj S Nayak, and U S Shenoy, journalist, Kundapur, were present on the occasion.

Amritha Shenoy welcomed the gathering.