from Wilson Saldanha and Paul Aranha
for Daijiworld Media Network – Kuwait (SM)

Kuwait, Dec 13:  Abbassiya families here felicitated Vishwa Konkani Kala Ratna, Konkani Sahitya Academy president Eric Ozario at United Indian School Abbassiya here on Wednesday December 12.

The guests were welcomed with traditional way by offering palm-jaggery and tender coconut water. The programme started with prayer by Fr Melvyn. Gladys Noronha gave a brief introduction of Eric Ozario.

Later Eric Ozario was felicitated with memento, shawl, fruits and bouquet by Lancy Mendonca, Fr Melvyn and Monthu Furtardo on behalf of Abbasiya families.  Stany Alvares of Maand Sobhaann was also present on the dais.

Speaking to the audience, Eric Ozario said that he found Abbassiya families like an oasis in the desert during his stay here.  He briefed the forthcoming event ‘Konkani Nirantari’, world’s longest singathon planned to beat the present Guinness record in the name of “Communidade Evangelica Luterana” Sao Paulo of Brazil. 

The marathon will start on Saturday January 26 2008 at 6 am and will run for non-stop 40 hours.  Till date 46 troupes have registered consisting more than 1,200 singers who will sing Konkani songs for 40 hours without any repetition at Kalaangann. 

He also thanked Udayavani and www.daijiworld.com for media sponsorship.  Even though Konkani is not his mother tongue and it is adopted by him, he has done a lot for Konkani and requested all gathered to do something for Konkani as it is their mother tongue.  He also mentioned that starting from June 2008, Konkani will be third optional language in Karnataka state and 91 schools will be teaching Konkani to the students.

Jaya proposed the vote of thanks.  Ronnie Suratkal compered the programme.  The programme came to an end with delicious dinner sponsored by John Tauro and family.