Pics:Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (SP)

Mangalore, May 4: ‘Konkani Rangotsav’, being organized by Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy in association with Kumble Srinivas Bhat Foundation, in memory of great dramatists, went under way in the city on Monday May 3.

The programme was inaugurated by MLA, N Yogish Bhat.  Speaking on the occasion, he observed that Konkani has made valuable contributions to the fields of literature, art, folklore and music. He noted that the state government has been extending an annual grant of Rs 40 lac to the Academy. He advised the Acadmy to organize more programmes to further the interests of Konkani language. He also recollected the services rendered to the field of drama by a great local talent, the late Ramanand Choorya.

Yakshagana Academy president, Kumble Sundar Rao, participated as chief guest. “Plays have a history running into several centuries. Konkani scholars should join hands with the Academy to take the programmes of the Academy to greater heights,” he advised. He also hailed the concept of holding programmes in memory of great artistes.

On this occasion, on behalf of the Academy, Srinivas Choorya, son of legendary Konkani dramatist, the late Ramanand Choorya, was felicitated. Academy president, Narayan Kharvi, presided.

Namdev Shenoy, member of the Academy, welcomed. Registrar, S H Shivarudrappa, delivered the introductory address. Gopinath Bhat proposed vote of thanks. Vittal Mangesh Bhat presented the programme.