Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Nov 3: Kalangann stood witness to a grand dual celebration on Saturday, November 2, as the 21st Kalakar Puraskar and the 287th monthly theatre were held in a vibrant cultural evening dedicated to the Konkani language and performing arts.
The prestigious 21st Kalakar Puraskar was conferred upon Srinivasa Rao S, fondly known as Kasaragod Chinna — an artiste who has brought immense prestige to Konkani theatre and earned acclaim in literature and cinema as well. The honour, jointly instituted by the Carvalho Household and Mandd Sobhann, was presented by Mangalore South MLA D Vedavyas Kamath.
The award comprised a shawl, garland, fruits, a memento, and a cash prize of Rs 50,000.
Speaking on the occasion, Kamath said, “The Konkani community has played a vital role in Mangaluru’s development. Dramatists like Kasaragod Chinna and composers like Eric Ozario have made remarkable contributions. Now, Konkani is also spoken in the Lok Sabha — a proud moment for us all. We must continue to work together to promote the language and preserve it for future generations. The work on the Konkani Bhavan has stalled; I will extend my full support to see it completed.”
Visibly moved after receiving the honour, Kasaragod Chinna expressed his gratitude, saying, “I am a Konkani man, though I have worked in Tulu, Kannada and Malayalam. Languages should unite hearts and minds; they must never become a cause for division. Many organisations are doing commendable work for Konkani. However, it is true that, for various reasons, other Konkani communities have not produced as much literature as the Catholic Konkani people have. We may have two eyes, but our vision must be one. Let us work unitedly for Konkani, despite differences of opinion.”
The guest of honour, Stanley Fernandes (‘Dattu’) — a prominent arts patron and strong pillar of the Konkani community in Oman — extended his best wishes for the event’s success.
Earlier, Dr Pratap Naik SJ, linguist and representative of the Carvalho Gharane, traced the origins and journey of the Kalakar Puraskar in his introductory address.
Kalakul Co-sponsor Michael D’Souza (Dubai) and Mandd Sobhann supporter Jerry Pinto (Qatar) were felicitated with floral tributes. Treasurer Sunil Monteiro read the citation, while Mandd Sobhann president Louis Pinto, secretary Rony Crasta, Kalangann Pirjent Roy Castelino, and Anita Chinna, the awardee’s spouse, graced the dais. Yogita Bellare compered the felicitation ceremony, and Keron Madtha made the announcements.
Following the award ceremony, the 287th monthly theatre was inaugurated by Dubai-based businessman Francis D’Souza, who rang the ceremonial bell.
The evening came alive with the 17th ‘Maxim Nite’, headlined by Melody Star Maxim Pereira and his troupe. Performers included Maxim Pereira, Shilpa Cutinha, Prakash D’Souza, Sonal Monteiro, Priya Menezes, William Rebello, Genelia Saldanha, and Derrick Machado, accompanied by the ‘G-Major’ band — Sheldon Pereira (bass guitar), Alister D’Souza (lead guitar), Veekshith (Tabla), Milton Pereira (drums), Macklin D’Souza (keyboard), and Sunil Kumar (violin).
Adding laughter to the evening were Joseph D’Souza and Nilesh from ‘Maskiri Manglur’, whose comedy skits delighted the audience. Sheldon Crasta and Glany Fernandes compered the entertainment segment.
The event concluded with loud applause for the artists and organisers, marking yet another milestone in Mandd Sobhann’s continuing efforts to celebrate and preserve the Konkani cultural legacy.