Pics: Justin D’Silva

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Jan 29: The decennial year celebrations of the ‘Uzwaad’, Udupi diocese’s Konkani fortnightly was held on Sunday January 28 at Milagres College grounds, Kallianpur.

In his opening remarks, Fr Denis D'Sa expressed, "I congratulate the editor, writers, and all the trustees on this occasion. Uzwaad has faced many challenges, but it has remained steadfast in its goals. Today is a day to reflect on history, review, and move forward. With the inception of the Udupi diocese, many challenges and difficulties emerged. Uzwaad became the mouthpiece of the Udupi diocese, with Fr Chethan Capuchin as its founder editor, laying a strong foundation. Fr Royson Fernandes, the subsequent editor, led with resilience amidst the challenges posed by COVID."

In his address, Dr Jerald Pinto, the writer, stated, "Uzwaad is the mouthpiece of Udupi, yet it has reached places where Udupians reside. Fr Chethan is the driving force behind this. Even during the COVID times, the fortnightly was successfully published and delivered under the editorship of Fr Royson Fernandes. Now, the helm is in the hands of Fr Alwyn Sequeira, and I wish him all the best in this endeavour."

Fr Chethan Lobo, Capuchin, the former editor, remarked, "On this occasion, I remember Msgr Baptist Menezes. During my tenure as editor, the trustees of Deepa trust never interfered in editorial matters. This editorial freedom was crucial for delivering a quality fortnightly. The diocese members, especially those of the women's commission, are the reason for our fortnightly's subscription. It's not just about the subscribers; it's about readership today. A decline in readership is concerning. We have deviated from the habit of reading, leading to our cultural decay."

James Mendonca, president of Mangalore Konkans, Dubai, in his chief guest address, remarked, "The editor may have encountered numerous challenges initially. Despite all odds, Fr Chethan has laid a strong foundation. Uzwaad has consistently maintained its quality. Daiji Dubai has supported and organized literary competitions, providing opportunities to emerging writers."

Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, bishop of the diocese of Udupi, in his presidential note, said, "Uzwaad began as a monthly and later transformed into a fortnightly. The first meeting was held at Milagres Cathedral. Mable Rebello facilitated us in all regulatory matters, especially in name registration. Fr Chethan Lobo expanded Uzwaad's reach. Fr Royson Fernandes, the subsequent editor, moved places, spread the word, and supported young writers. Now, Fr Alwyn Sequeira shoulders the responsibility of Uzwaad. I thank all three editors for their selfless service. In this decennial year, let us adopt Uzwaad's motto for every family and work towards this goal. Through this fortnightly, let's collaborate to preserve and promote Konkani culture and tradition. I express gratitude to Daiji Dubai for their unwavering support from the beginning."

Msgr Ferdinand Gonsalves, vicar general and chairman of Deepa trust, extended a warm welcome to the gathering. Alwyn Danthy Pernal compered the program, and Fr Alwyn Sequiera, the editor, proposed a vote of thanks.

Nanu Marol was honored on behalf of Daiji Dubai for their immense support and contributions to the fortnightly. Wilfred Padil, the designer, and other notable dignitaries behind Uzwaad fortnightly were also honored. Prizes were distributed to the winners of various competitions on the occasion.

A Konkani play titled ‘Dadlya Bhitar Tu Sadenv’ written by Dr Fr Alwyn Serrao was presented by the Astitva team.