Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 29: The Konkani Natak Sabha (KNS) celebrated its 82nd Annual Day with grandeur and cultural splendour on Sunday, September 28, at the iconic Don Bosco Hall. The evening’s highlight was the much-acclaimed Konkani drama Pati Polenaka by MicMax, which kept the audience thoroughly entertained.
The celebration was graced by an impressive lineup of dignitaries. Fr Gerald Lobo, OFM Cap, superior of St Ann Friary, Bejai, presided over the programme. Richard Moras, president of the Konkani Lekhak Sangh, was the chief guest. Guests of honour included Gilbert D’Souza and Sylvia D’Silva on behalf of MDVK, philanthropist Santhosh Sequeira of Kankanady, Anil Lobo, chairman of MCC Bank Ltd, and Stany Bela, production director at Daijiworld Media.
Also present on the dais were Fr Rocky D’Cunha, OFM Cap, president of KNS; Floyd D'Mello Cascia, vice-president; Pamela Santos, general secretary; Jerome Moras, assistant secretary; and Ivan D’Silva, treasurer.
Michael D’Souza Kalakar Puraskar 2025 conferred
The prestigious Michael D’Souza Kalakar Puraskar was conferred on veteran Konkani stage artistes Victor Correa (Derebail), Molly Fernandes (Cascia), and Vincent Correa (Bendore) for their outstanding contributions to Konkani theatre. Heartfelt citations were eloquently read by Edward Coelho, Jossy Theodore, and Loy Rego.
Each award comprised a shawl of honour, fruits and flowers, a citation, a memento, and a cash prize of Rs 25,000, generously sponsored by Michael D’Souza of Dubai as part of his ongoing efforts to preserve and promote Konkani culture. Instituted in 2014, the Kalakar Puraskar has, over the past 11 years, recognized 29 distinguished Konkani artistes.
Cultural legacy and contributions lauded
In his presidential address, Fr Gerald Lobo reminisced about performing on the Don Bosco stage 42 years ago, calling it a ‘divine platform’ that has nurtured countless artistes. He lauded the awardees and praised KNS for its steadfast dedication to advancing Konkani culture and theatre.
In his keynote address, Richard Moras celebrated the society’s remarkable legacy, noting, “The history of KNS is synonymous with the history and evolution of Konkani drama. From religious plays to modern stage productions, this platform has birthed many renowned writers and artistes. Even after 82 years, the legacy thrives.”
Annual competitions and felicitations:
Fr Rocky D’Cunha, in his welcome address, commended the tireless efforts of the KNS executive committee and acknowledged the generous support of sponsors and well-wishers. Winners of KNS’s various annual competitions were honoured, with Sunil Menezes announcing their names.
The annual report was presented by General Secretary Pamela Santos, while Vice-President Floyd D’Mello Cascia offered a warm vote of thanks.
The programme was elegantly compered by Maxim D’Souza of the Angelore Unit, with special support from KNS manager Gerald Concessao and the managing committee.
Daijiworld Media Pvt Ltd. served as the exclusive media partner.
Show-Stopping Drama: Pati Polenaka
The grand finale of the evening was the uproarious Konkani play Pati Polenaka, directed by Jerome Moras Angelore with lively musical arrangements by Sathish Surathkal.
The talented cast featured Loy Rego (Bendore), Cletus Lobo (Urwa), Anil D’Cunha (Cordel), Mable Menezes (Bejai), Nilesh Rasquinha (Angelore), Prakash Fronterio (Jeppu), Jyothi D’Souza (Bendore), Keith Furtado (Urwa), Gyan Concesso (Derebail), and others.
Stage design, which added striking visual richness, was expertly executed by Glanny D’Souza Bajal and his team. Giriyappa Iddya handled makeup, Chris Electronics managed the sound, and Benson Electricals Praveen Gurpur oversaw the lighting. Songs for the drama were penned by Jerry Bondel, rendered in vocals by Ivan Sequeira, with music beautifully arranged by Joswin Pinto Bendore.
In a special gesture, Helen Joyce D’Souza, wife of the late drama writer MicMax, was honoured on behalf of her late husband, along with director Jerome Moras and renowned artiste Dolla Mangluru.
The celebration stood as a shining testament to the Konkani Natak Sabha’s enduring mission to promote the Konkani language, theatre, and local talent. The packed hall and enthusiastic participation showcased the community’s deep-rooted pride and unwavering support for its vibrant cultural heritage.