Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 19: The 'Konkani Manyatha Divas' was celebrated with great fervour on Sunday, August 17 at St Joseph the Worker Church, Neermarga, Mangaluru.
The chief guest, Arun Raj Rodrigues, inaugurated the event by unfurling the special delicacy 'Patrode' on the occasion. Mangalurean delicacy Patrode was prepared by the parishioners in their respective wards.
Rodrigues highlighted that Konkani gained official language status on August 20, 1992, when it was included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. He emphasized that to preserve and pass on the Konkani language to future generations with the same enthusiasm, Konkani native speakers must use the language in their households.
The event was presided over by the parish priest of Neermarga Church, Fr Paul Pinto, who shared that he had initiated the Konkani Recognition Day celebration 25 years ago while serving as a priest at Valencia church. He noted that the celebration has now expanded to the diocesan level and expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to its success at Neermarga church.
The vice-president of the parish pastoral council, Sandeep Misquith, delivered the welcome address. The secretary of the parish pastoral council, Usha Fernandes, Sr Sujatha, the manager of St Joseph English Medium School, Sr Maria Jane, the superior of Carmel Ashram AC Convent and media consultant Elias Fernandes were present.
Savitha Pereira compered the programme and Shabitha Saldanha, the coordinator of the Small Christian Community, proposed the vote of thanks.
The stage backdrop decorated by Sunil Pereira (M/s Maria Arrangers) and the sound and lights arranged by Maxim Vas (M/s Max Sounds and Lights).
The event featured performances across 14 categories, including songs, dance, skits, and traditional mandos, presented by parishioners from 16 wards.
The celebration concluded with a community delicacy, resonating with the heartfelt slogan 'Namaan thuka mogal Konkan Matha’ ('Mother Konkani, our salutations to you'). The event fostered unity and cultural pride among the attendees.