Media Release
Pics: Nitin Periera
Udupi, Jan 13: The 19th Kavita Fest, organized by Kavita Trust, celebrated Konkani poetry's unique charm and cultural significance with a blend of art, tradition, and community spirit. Held at Ashiyana, the residence of Sujatha and Alwyn Andrade in Sasthan, Pandeshwar, the event on January 12 was a grand success, in collaboration with ‘The Expressions’ group.
The day commenced with a delightful breakfast of idli and manni. A brass band-led procession marked the inauguration, where dignitaries released flower petals into the air, symbolizing the global spread of poetic expression. Bishop Henry D'Souza of Bellary led the ceremony.
Chief guest Joseph Elias Menezes, director of Fortune Life Wealth Pvt Ltd, Delhi, shared humorous anecdotes about his struggles with Konkani poetry during childhood, emphasizing the positivity poets bring to life. Bishop Henry D'Souza reflected on poetry's power to transcend barriers and unite people, commending Kavita Trust for strengthening these connections.
Kavita Trust president Kishoo Barkur welcomed attendees, sharing the Trust’s journey. Praveen L Carvalho, president of The Expressions, expressed pride in hosting the festival. Secretary Averyl Rodrigues and hosts Sujatha and Alwyn Andrade were also present.
A day of poetic expressions
The festival featured diverse activities celebrating Konkani poetry:
- Traditional Performances: Dolphy Mascarenhas and his group presented soulful lullabies (jayojompi) and wedding songs (vovios), preserving Konkani heritage.
- ‘My Life: My Poetry’: An insightful conversation between award recipient Syed Samiulla Barmawar and Dr Rajay Pawar highlighted Samiulla’s literary journey. Trustee William Pais introduced the session.
- Poet-Reader Dialogues: Anvesha Singhbal engaged poet Smitha Shenoy in a discussion on women’s sensitivities and inspirations in poetry.
- Open Poetry Stage: Fourteen poets, including Pius James Karugalnade, Flavia Albuquerque, Juliet Moras, and others, shared creative verses.
- Young Poets’ Presentation: Supported by Sahitya Akademi, this session featured young talents Anthara Bhide, Venkatesh Nayak, Supriya Kankonkar, and Amey Nayak, chaired by Andrew L D'Cunha.
Culinary delight
A sumptuous lunch featuring pathrade, chicken sukka, vorn, and holige added flavor to the celebrations.
Victorious valedictory
The valedictory ceremony featured chief guest Dr Purnananda Chari, Dr Roopa Chari, Fr Sunil D'Silva, and award recipient Syed Samiulla Barmawar.
The dignitaries launched Swargachi Pakshi (Bird of Heaven), a poetry collection by Smitaprajna, introduced by Trustee Vittori Karkal. The Mathias Family Poetry Award was presented to Syed Samiulla Barmawar, including Rs 25,000, a shawl, citation, and memento.
Dr Purnananda Chari lauded Kavita Trust for uniting Konkani people and uplifting poetry’s prominence. Fr Sunil D'Silva and Dr Roopa Chari blessed the event. Vice president of The Expressions, Shwetha Pinto, expressed gratitude.
Conclusion
The program, efficiently compered by Steven Lewis Matpady, celebrated the richness of Konkani poetry, fostering creativity, tradition, and hope for the future. Kavita Fest 2025 was a poetic triumph resonating with inspiration and unity.