Media Release

Mangaluru, Aug 31: The Milagres College Mangalore Konkani Club celebrated Konkani Manyatha Divas on Wednesday, August 31.

Victor Mathias was the chief guest for the programme. In his message, he said, “Konkani was included in the Eighth Schedule to the Constitution of India as per the Seventy-First Amendment on 20 August 1992, adding it to the list of official languages. This recognition has increased the respect and value for this language by leaps and bounds. Hence, it is our duty to strive towards the development of Konkani.”

Fr Michael Santhumayor, principal of the college, presided over the program. He said, “Konkani is the mother tongue of thousands of coastal people, yet its development is stagnated due to various reasons. Therefore, incorporating Konkani language in the primary education system is the need of the hour. The future of Konkani lies on the shoulder of the young generation. He proudly said that about 80 students have taken Konkani as a second language. This shows the keen interest in the youth towards learning Konkani and culture.”

Founder of Mandd Sobhann, Eric Ozario, president Louis J Pinto, Konkani Club coordinator Tressy Pinto and the team ‘Osmitay’ were present. On this occasion, the promo of the Konkani movie ‘Osmitay’ was displayed to the audience.

Preema D’Souza spoke on the significance of the day. Konkani students entertained the gathering with melodious ‘Ghumat’ performance. A cultural programme was held. Denson D’Silva, president of Konkani Club welcomed the gathering. Juhi D’Cunha proposed a vote of thanks. Jaison D’Souza compered the event. About 140 Konkani students participated in the programme.