Media Release
Beltangady, Aug 31: The Konkani Maanyatha Divas 2026 celebrations were held with great enthusiasm at St Antony Church, Naravi, on August 30 featuring a vibrant ward-wise cultural competition that beautifully showcased the richness of Konkani language, culture and traditions.
The programme, organized by the Youth Commission, ICYM and YCS of St Antony Church, Naravi. Around 300 parishioners gathered to witness the colourful performances presented by all nine wards of the parish.
The programme was graced by Fr Valerian Fernandes as the main celebrant and Fr Jerome D’Souza, parish priest, as the chief guest. Sanjay Miranda, vice president of the Church Pastoral Parishad; Sumitha D’Souza, secretary; Sunil D’Souza, commission convener; Clinton, ICYM Beltangady deanery president; Jovel Fernandes, Church ICYM animator; Iona Miranda, YCS animator; Winston, ICYM president; and Clerissa, ICYM secretary, were present on the stage.
Winston, ICYM president, warmly welcomed the dignitaries and the gathering.
In his address, Fr Valerian Fernandes highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting Konkani language, culture and traditions, encouraging everyone to value and pass them on to the younger generation.
Fr Jerome D’Souza, parish priest, also addressed the gathering and appreciated the efforts taken by the youth and parishioners in organizing and participating in the celebration.
The highlight of the evening was the ward-wise competition, in which all nine wards presented their performances with great enthusiasm and creativity. The performances reflected the rich Konkani cultural heritage and received an enthusiastic response from the audience. Three distinguished judges evaluated the performances.
The YCS girls beautifully conducted the master of ceremony, adding grace and energy to the programme. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Clerissa, expressing gratitude to the priests, dignitaries, judges, organizers, performers and all the parishioners who contributed to the success of the celebration.
The celebration stood as a joyful reminder of the importance of preserving Konkani language, culture and identity, while bringing the entire parish together through music, dance, drama and fellowship.