Media Release

Mangaluru, May 3: “The survival of any language’s literature depends on its readers,” remarked Dr Fr Praveen Martis, vice-chancellor of St Aloysius University, as he inaugurated the new video series Vinchnar Motiyam (Selected Pearls) at the University’s Konkani Institute.

The initiative aims to revive the declining reading habit in Konkani by introducing a new medium. Through this series, readers will share their reflections on their favorite literary works. Episodes will be broadcast on the University’s official YouTube channel on the first and third Saturday of every month, serving as a valuable resource for students and teachers engaged in Konkani literary studies.

For over 46 years, the Konkani Institute has been dedicated to the promotion of Konkani language and literature. In the past year, it has successfully hosted Bolkanv (Balcony), a unique programme that engaged audiences in literary discussions. The new Vinchnar Motiyam series builds on this legacy, offering readers a platform to connect with classic works.

Dr Martis also highlighted that the Institute has been publishing the research journal Amar Konkani for the past 44 years. Under the leadership of Dr Fr Vijay D’Souza, a new Konkani language research project is set to begin shortly.

Introducing the program’s framework, Dr Alwyn D’Souza, advisor to the Konkani Institute, explained the design and vision behind Vinchnar Motiyam. He expressed confidence that the series would nurture a culture of reading. He further revealed that another upcoming series will simplify literary criticism theories for readers.

The inaugural event was hosted by noted writer and journalist H M Pernal, who welcomed the gathering and anchored the programme. Pinto Vamanjoor proposed the vote of thanks, with assistance from Vanitha.