Pics: Steephan Kayyar

Daijiworld Media Network - Kasargod

Kasargod, Aug 14: "Nowadays the majority of media houses turn out to be carriers of a certain propaganda which is created by someone or organization and heavily engaged in creating confusion in society. At the same time, the people's view on the media also changed and somewhere they also knowingly or unknowingly backed the propaganda and accepted the media, based on their ideology and political thinking. Tackling this situation is a big challenge for a true journalist or writer who always faces the threat of being suppressed, exploited and neglected," said Stany Bela, journalist and writer.

He was speaking in a debate organized by Konkani magazine Mahima, published from Kasargod on its silver Jubilee celebration held at St Monica Church hall on Sunday, August 13.

Stany Bela stated, "Writing isn't merely a skill; it transforms into the role of an analyst or writer when personal opinions, responses, and observations are incorporated into the writing format. Even fiction writers require astute observation to infuse creativity into their works. We find ourselves in a time of examination, where nature, administration, politics, corporate entities, and digitization compel us to evaluate our position and consider how we are treated as individuals. Only media houses and writers who adhere to ethical standards can effectively represent the perspectives of the common people."

Fr Stanly Periera, vicar forane of Kasargod Catholic deanery, presided over the silver jubilee celebration and highlighted the significance of 'Mahima' in fostering unity among the 16 parishes of the Kasargod deanery. He praised the magazine's role in bringing families together across different parishes and distances. Fr Stanislaus D'Souza, the editor of Mahima for the past 11 years, was commended for his efforts in organizing the jubilee celebration.

Fr Rupesh Madta, editor of Raknno weekly, appreciated Mahima's editorial board for maintaining the magazine's literature and fostering its success over its 25-year history. He lauded the publication for producing numerous renowned Konkani writers and wished for continued jubilees in the future.

Fr Chetan OFM, director of Assisi Press, Mangaluru, and Fr Anil Prakash D'Silva acknowledged the dedication of past and present editors and the editorial board in making Mahima a vital and united entity in the lives of Konkani people within the Kasargod deanery.

Fr Stanislaus expressed gratitude to the editorial board, advertisers, writers, and readers who have supported Mahima throughout the years. He emphasized the emotional connection that the word "Mahima" now holds for families who eagerly await its publication.

The event included reflections by Raju Ukkinadka, an associate editor of Mahima for 23 years, and Stany Lobo, a writer and member of the Mahima editorial board for the past 25 years, who provided insights into the magazine's journey.

The contributors of Mahima, across various forms, were felicitated by Fr Staly and Fr Stanislaus during the event. A special issue of Mahima was released by dignitaries.

The occasion saw the presence of Ambrose Crasta Bela, secretary of Parish Council, Kasargod Deanery, along with past and current representatives of Mahima, writers, and advertisers.