Report by Viju Mangalore, Pics by Praveen Tauro
For Daijiworld News Network - Mangalore - Wednesday, 7-15 pm
Mangalore, Feb 22: The need to bring out a lexicon for Konkani language by the Konkani Institute of St Aloysius College was highlighted at the silver jubilee celebrations of the institute held at the college auditorium on Wednesday February 23 evening.
Inaugurating the celebration state president of Konkani Sahitya Academy Eric Ozario said that the work to prepare a Konkani lexicon was initiated around 20 years ago, but ceased due to various reasons. However, the Konkani institute must take up this work with earnestness. Only a premier institute of Konkani language like the Konkani Instituted can form a comprehensive lexicon, he added.
Ozario also expressed the need to take up research in Konkani language and also documentation of the various elements related to Konkani language.
Education is another area of concern where a pro-active leadership should be taken by the institute, he said.
Konkani activist and writer Dr Edward Nazareth delivered the Bennett Pinto memorial lecture.
“In order to conserve Konkani language and its culture, Konkani must be spoken at home, in church and at one’s workplace. Further efforts must be made to learn catechism in Konkani and not in English,” said Dr Nazarath.
He also stressed on the formation of a Konkani Prachar Sabha to promote Konkani language.
On the occasion three Konkani books were released.
Dr Leo D’Souza brother of Dr Valerian D’Souza released the biography of Late Dr Valerian D’Souza written by Gladys Rego. Monica Alvares released ‘Kamalachem Ghor Bhorlolo Azo’ written by Jose Alvares while ‘Vhovio Ani Vers’ of Gladys Rego was released by Prof Alban Castelino.
The event, which gathered Konkani lovers, well wishers of the institute, writers and activist was participated by rector St Aloysius Institutions Fr Francis Serrao, principal St Aloysius College Fr Eugene Lobo, rector, St Joseph’s Seminary Jeppu Fr Victor Machado.
A cultural programme was also organized on the occasion.