Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Jun 6: The Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy organised a vibrant poetry recital programme titled ‘Kavyan Vhalo-15’ at its auditorium on Saturday, June 6, bringing together poets, scholars and cultural figures to celebrate Konkani language and literature.
The event was presided over by Academy president Joachim Stany Alvares, who in his opening remarks expressed satisfaction over the Academy’s continued efforts to identify and honour individuals from the Konkani community for their contributions in music, literature, theatre, and other cultural and educational fields. He welcomed the gathering and underlined the importance of preserving and promoting Konkani heritage.
Chief guest Dr Vijayalakshmi Nayak, assistant professor at St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru, described Konkani as a “great language” spoken across Hindu, Muslim and Christian communities. She highlighted that Konkani is written in five scripts, calling it a distinctive feature that reflects its cultural depth. She also noted that Konkani finds a place in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India, granting it official recognition, and praised its rich literary and linguistic tradition.
Addressing the gathering after receiving an honour from the Academy, deputy chief traffic warden Francis Maxim Moras delivered a message of social harmony, saying: “Let caste and religion remain at home, let God remain in the heart, and let this life be a light to the world.” He urged those present to contribute positively to society and perform at least one good deed in their lifetime.
The poetry session was conducted by noted poet Felcy Lobo Derebail, who offered detailed insights into poets and the art of poetry, setting the tone for the recitations that followed.
A series of poets including Valerian Moras Taccode, Smita Shenoy, Remy Katipalla, Dr Flavia Castelino, Anil J Coelho, Radhika Pai, Pedro Prabhu Taccode, Marlene Mascarenhas, Alreesha Rodrigues and Lavina Danti presented their original compositions, adding colour and diversity to the literary evening.
Academy member Sapna May Crasta compered the programme and proposed the vote of thanks, while member Naveen Lobo was also present at the event.