Media Release

Dubai, May 18: A soulful celebration of Konkani literature came alive at Al Nasr Leisureland’s Nashwan Hall, as poetry lovers gathered for 'Kavitha Suvad', a Konkani poetry recital featuring renowned UAE-based poets, and 'Kaavy Prayog', an artistic poetry presentation by young Konkani-speaking children.

The event was organised by Mangalore Konkans Dubai in association with Team Geet Gazaal and the literature web portal Aankri.com.

The programme began with a warm welcome speech by Stephan Menezes, president of Mangalore Konkans Dubai. He extended heartfelt greetings to the guest of honour, Lancy D’Souza, executive director of Leyton Shipping, along with all poetry enthusiasts. As part of the inaugural ceremony, Menezes recited a poem titled “Kavitha”, penned by poet Avina Miyar, setting a poetic tone for the evening.

The literary session was skillfully narrated by celebrated Konkani poet Robert Fernandes Udyavar. He was joined by an impressive lineup of poets including Annu Kulshekar, Ronald Olivera Padukone, Preethi Seema D’Souza Bikarnakatte, Sannu Niddodi, Melwyn Kalakul, Dinesh Correa, Valerian Almeida, Lancy Noronha Bellur, Sudarshan Hegde, Anil Kardoza Belman, Janet Madanthyar, Fabian Santhosh Arwa, Kiran Nirkan, and Sannu Monis Boliye.

A special highlight was the delightful children’s poem “Aambe”, written by Kiran Nirkan and presented by young talent Nichole Eva Tauro. Each participating poet was honoured with a floral welcome by Stephan Menezes.

The second half of the programme featured Kaavy Prayog — a vibrant and emotive poetry performance by children that captivated the audience and evoked deep nostalgic feelings of home and childhood memories.

Participants included Leora Vevina D’Souza, Shanelle Ashlynn D’Almeida, Delisha Ruth Correa, Deona Rebecca Correa, Anor Teran Mendonca, Amor Manuel Mendonca, and Sianna Ishal Mathais. The script, music, and direction of the presentation were artfully managed by Melwyn Kalakul, Rohan Kalakul, and Aenstin Kalakul.

The guest of honour Lancy D’Souza presented mementos to the participating children and praised the efforts of all involved. In his address, he congratulated the poets, performers, and organisers for orchestrating a meaningful and moving literary event.

He emphasised the importance of preserving the Konkani language through creative and community-driven programs such as Kavitha Suvad and Kaavy Prayog, and pledged his continued support for future initiatives.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Sannu Monis Boliye, chief coordinator of Team Geet Gazaal and editor of Aankri.com. On behalf of Team Geet Gazaal, he also felicitated Stephan Menezes for his recent election as president of Mangalore Konkans Dubai.