Media Release

Dubai, Feb 2: Under the patronage of the government of Karnataka and in the aegis of Mangalore Konkans Dubai, the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy is set to present its first-ever Vishwa Konkani Fest in the United Arab Emirates. This day-long cultural extravaganza, celebrating Konkani language, art, and literature, is scheduled to be held in Dubai in November 2026.

The announcement was made by Stany Alvares, president of the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy, while addressing a gathering at Winneys Restaurant, Karama, on January 31. The audience included presidents of Konkani associations, community leaders, and prominent business personalities from the Konkani community in the UAE.

Addressing the gathering, Alvares highlighted the academy’s ongoing efforts to promote and upskill the Konkani language, exploring avenues to expand its reach across Karnataka and India. He emphasized that the Vishwa Konkani Fest represents a major step in broadening the academy’s horizons beyond state and national boundaries, connecting with Konkani-speaking communities abroad. Noting that the UAE hosts a significant number of Konkani expatriates, he said the Fest aims to unite people across religions, communities, and associations who speak Konkani and are committed to its development both in the UAE and internationally.

Stephan Vamanjoor, president of Mangalore Konkans Dubai, welcomed the guests, while James Mendonca, chief coordinator of the Vishwa Konkani Fest, briefed the gathering about the event.

Distinguished patron and veteran Konkani community leader Dr Ronald Colaco expressed his delight at the initiative and assured his full support. He also shared his role in securing financial backing from the government of Karnataka for the event.

Businessmen Pratap Mendonca and Ronald Martis were present on the dais. The programme was compered by Roshan D’Silva, who also delivered the vote of thanks.