News and pics: Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai (EP)
Mumbai, Dec 14: “Though decades have passed by after I went abroad for my profession, I have not lost the love of mother tongue. I have seen God and love in the language and I am blessed. Even though I am editing English language magazine at present, my love of my mother tongue is as before. We Konkani writers should unite and fight for our needs. We should live for the love of others, Our society has many needs. Let us work towards them and achieve our aim”, said Daijiworld Weekly editor, senior writer Hemacharya (Stephan Mascarenhas).
He was speaking as the Chief guest in the 'Konkani Sahamilan 2015' organised by progressive Konkani writer's association for Konkani writers, artistes, musicians and Konkani workers at Gyan Ashram, Mahakali Caves road, Andheri east on Sunday afternoon, December 13.
The gathering presided by Kanik Konkani monthly founder editor Andrew Mondonca, Gyan ashrama music director Rev Fr Cyril D' Souza, Kelmbet lit the traditional lamp and inaugurated the programme. He also inaugurated www.painari.com website on the occasion.
Even though I have inevitably remained away from Konkani, I am living sincerely loving the language, said Rev Fr Cyril D' Souza. He surprised the audience by melodiously singing a song by Melwyn Peris.
Senior author Geo Agrar (Joe D' Silva) gave a key note address. Authors and writers have the capacity to create awareness of society's health. They can nurture the society and mother tongue through their literature, he said.
Melwin Neri Nazareth gave information on poinnari.com. He also gave in depth introduction to rhe chief organizer Vally Quadros.
Konkani Bhasha Mandal Maharastra president John D' Silva, Maharastra Konkani Association founder president Leo Fernandes Jerimeri, senior musician Lawrence Saldanha, Henry D' Souza Goregaon, Konkani Welfare Association Mira Road president John Crasta, Secretary Arun Noronha, treasurer Lawrence Mathais, Hilary D' Silva Niddodi, Francis Olivera and others were present.
In a poet's conference presided by Vally Quadros, senior poet V D' Silva, Nery Nazareth and other poets participated and presented their poems. Jerry Bondel, Lancy D' Souza and Delisha D' Souza sang Konkani songs. Mira road artistes enacted a skit titled 'Kahn' written by Vally Quadros and directed by Hilary D' Silva on the occasion.
Joy Paladka welcomed the gathering in the beginning. Vally Quadros introduced the guests and proposed vote of thanks.