Media Release

Mangaluru, Aug 2: "As a fiction writer I have tried my level best to maintain sanctity in language and narrative, and used short stories as a medium to convey a social message," said Dolphy Fedrick Lobo, senior fiction writer and journalist.

He was speaking in the Sahitya Akademi Kathasandhi programme at Bishop's House, Kodialbail, hosted by Raknno - Konkani Weekly on July 30.

Popularly known as Dolphy Cascia, Lobo presented his short story ‘Mai Kityaak Rodtha’ (Why Mother Crying). He further emphasised the alcoholism problem among lower middle class families in his neighbourhood prompted him to take up the issue of alcoholism in his short story and he feels he has succeeded in his endeavours addressing a burning social issue. The story highlights the destruction of families and stigma of young children in rural areas particularly among the labour class.

He addressed the queries on the short story and explained in brief how elements like a curious beginning, twist in the end and catchy title make a short story different and attractive.

H M Pernal, member, Language Advisory Board introduced Dolphy Frederick Lobo to the audience and briefed about various Sahitya Akademi programmes like Kathasandhi, Garama loak, Through my Window, Kavi Sandhi, Meet the Author, Nari Chethana to name a few. Pernal mentioned that the Kathasandhi programme is the third programme by Sahitya Akademi in the month of July in this area and two more programmes are lined up for the month of August. He further explained about the Sahitya Akademi Publication and various grants like travel grants to youth writers. He urged to make the best use of Sahitya Akademi programmes in future on the occasion.

Earlier, poet Melvyn Rodrigues, executive committee member and convenor of Konkani at Sahitya Akademi escorted Dolphy Lobo to the dais.

Fr Roopesh Madtha, editor of Raknno Weekly moderated the discussion and proposed the vote of thanks.