Report and pics from Rons Bantwal
for Daijiworld News Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Dec 3: The prestigious 'Divo Sahitya Puraskar -2006' was conferred on Bangalore's Fr V J Menezes and musician Wilfred Fernandes at a function in Antonio D'Silva School at Dadar here.

The annual award has been instituted by 'Divo,' a Konkani weekly published from Mumbai.

Arcadia Shares Private Limited working president Anthony Sequeira was the chief guest while Blue Star Elevators Private Limited administrative director Lawrence D'Souza was the guest of honour.

On behalf of Fr Menezes, his sister Rose Victor received the award. Fr Menezes known for his contribution to Konkani literature as well as for his social work.

Wilfred Fernandes is renowned for his service to Konkani music over the past four decades.

Jury members Raymond Lobo Mulund and Austin D'Souza Mumbai were felicitated on the occasion. New assistant editor of Divo, S Lobo assumed his post on the occasion. Veteran writer P D'Souza Fund award was presented to C M Thottam and Joker Cascia Malwani.
 
'Kavita Poli', a book by veteran poet V D'Silva was released on the occasion by Konkani writer Jerry Kulshekar in the presence of Divo sub editor Walter Lasrado.

'Moga Valyam Kagat', a play by Charles D'Cunha and his troupe, a Konkani musical show directed by Felix D'Souza and scripted by Naveen Kulshekar entertained the audience.

Earlier, V D'Silva Kanjur Marg inaugurated the programme while Divo editor Lawrence Coelho delivered the inaugural address. Lydia A D'Souza and Naveen Kulshekar compered.