Daijiworld Media Network-Udupi

Udupi, Nov 23: 'Sangeet Sambrham', the maiden Konkani album by Leslie Cornelio was launched by Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, bishop of diocese of Udupi, on Wednesday November 23 in a colourful event held at Mother of Sorrows Church grounds here.

Addressing the gathering, bishop Dr Gerald said, "Talent is given by God and it depends on the individual to use it for good cause. Right from the beginning, Leslie has been using his talent to sing praise and glory of God. He joined the church choir group at a very young age. And now he has taken a step further to exhibit his talent. I congratulate him on his first step in the music field. If we support him, he will definitely reach greater heights in the field of Konkani music. I wish that he comes up with more albums in the coming years."

Fr Clement Mascarenhas said, "As he was a student in my science class, I knew he used to sing melodiously. I congratulate him for his maiden Konkani album. We have another great personality in our locality in Loy Castileno who has helped Leslie in bringing out the album. Loy Castelino has been an inspiration for many budding singers."

Parish priest of Mother of Sorrows Church Fr Fredrick Mascarenhas said, "Leslie is an active member of the church choir. I knew him as singer but now I came to know that he is also a good composer too. He was my student in the 80s. I wish him greater success in the years to come."

The inaugural programme started with a prayer song sung by Leslie and other members. Joshwita Menezes welcomed the gathering.

Singers Anil D'Sa, Nelson Lewis, Santhosh, Asylse D'Souza, Jovita, Rentia, Ria Pinto sang various popular Konkani songs and entertained the gathering.

Loy Castelino was honoured for his lyrics and compositions, along with sponsors by the bishop of the Udupi. 

Mithra Mandal felicitated Leslie Cornelio for his achievement. He is also a member of the group which brought out the album.

Comedy skits were performed by Antony Roche, Prem Pinto and Glen Monis, Brahmavar.

Music for the event was given by Gladson Ravindra on keyboard, Roshan Crasta on lead guitar, Ashwin Corera on bass guitar and Sachin Sequiera on drums.

Fr Valerian Mendonca, chancellor, diocese of Udupi, Fr Denis D'Sa, PRO, diocese of Udupi, Fr Lawrence D'Souza, secretary, Fr Clement Mascarenhas, Fr Royson Fernandes, Dr Neri Cornelio and others were present.

The birthday of Fr Clement Mascarenhas was celebrated on the occasion. Roshan Crasta Kulshekar compered the programme.