Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Sep 23: KNS marked its 81st annual day on Sunday, September 22, at Don Bosco Hall, bringing together esteemed guests and community members. The event featured notable personalities including Fr Rocky D'Cunha, OFM, superior, St Ann Friary, Bejai, Santhosh Sequeira, Anil Lobo, chairman of MCC Bank Ltd, and Alwyn D'Souza, president of Catholic Sabha, who graced the stage as chief guests.
During the ceremony, the prestigious Kalakar Puraskar was awarded to senior play director and actor Jerome Moras, esteemed backstage artist Lucy Mascarenhas, and actor and writer Martine R D'Souza. The KNS president and the executive committee also recognized Santhosh Sequeira, Anil Lobo, and Alwyn D'Souza for their significant contributions to society. Citations were read by Jossy Theodore, Pamela Santos, and Sunil Menezes.
In his remarks, Anil Lobo congratulated the awardees and emphasized the cultural significance of their achievements, noting the crucial role KNS has played in their development. He also highlighted the establishment of KNS Productions, encouraging community support for this initiative aimed at fostering Konkani talent.
Fr Rocky D'Cunha praised KNS for its long-standing legacy, asserting that it remains one of the strongest cultural organizations in Mangaluru. Alwyn D'Souza reflected on KNS's rich history and commended its management for their successful projects.
On behalf of the award winners, Martine R D'Souza shared his heartfelt appreciation. Prizes were distributed to participants of KNS's annual competitions, with names read by Loy Rego.
The event commenced with a welcome speech by KNS president Liston D'Souza, followed by an annual report presented by general secretary Floyd D'Mello Cascia. Gerald Concessao proposed a vote of thanks, and Felcy D'Almeida served as the MC.
Following the formal proceedings, KNS members staged the Konkani comedy drama Phalya Poleyam, directed by Jerome Moras Anjelore and Mellu Valencia, with musical arrangements by DJ Robin. The talented cast included Cletus Lobo, Arun, Jyothi, Rita Fernandes, and others. The stage design was managed by Alwyn Bajal and his team, while makeup was handled by Giriyappa Iddya.
The celebration was a vibrant reflection of KNS's commitment to promoting Konkani culture and nurturing local talent.