Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, May 9: Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy organised a poetry meet titled ‘Kavyan Vhalo-14’ at the academy hall on May 9.

Academy president Joachim Stany Alvares presided over the programme. In his introductory address, he said the Konkani language has grown beyond the barriers of caste and religion and appealed to all Konkani-speaking people to maintain close ties with the academy. He also welcomed the gathering.

Chief guest Prakash Noronha, secretary of Parichaya Pambur, said Konkani is a great language spoken by people belonging to major religions in Karnataka including Hindus, Muslims and Christians.

He said any language can survive only if it evolves over time without rigid restrictions, and by incorporating words from other languages while striving to speak it properly, the language can continue to grow. He further noted that Konkani is widely spoken among communities such as Kharvis, Siddis, Kudubis and Catholics. If all Konkani communities respect the unity of the language, the blessings of Konkani Mother will remain on everyone, he said.

He appreciated the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy president and members for organising several programmes aimed at the growth of the language.

Senior Kudubi community artiste K Sundar Gowda was felicitated during the programme.

Renowned poet Dr Venkatesh Nayak conducted the poetry session and gave detailed insights into poets and poetry.

Poets including Avil Raskinha, Kusum Kamath, Sanjana Mathias, Jerry Bondel, Suma Vasanth, Praveen Tavro, Vismaya Lobo and Dr Sumati Karkala recited their poems.

Academy member Ronald Crasta compered the programme and delivered the vote of thanks. Academy member Naveen Lobo was also present.