Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (JS)
Mangaluru, Aug 24: It was a treat for Konkani theatre enthusiasts as the most-awaited Konkani drama 'Paanch Mornam' was staged on Sunday August 23 at Don Bosco hall in the city.
The gripping drama was written by Konkani columnist and author Richie John Pais and directed by renowned director John M Permannur. ’Paanch Mornam’ in Konkani means five funerals.
In a brief formal stage programme, V P Lobo, managing director of T3 Urban Developers said, "In November 1983 two youngsters had watched a drama called 'Makdacho Paayi'. Today on August 23, 2015, 30 years later, both the youngsters are here. The only difference between us is I am in the audience and Richie John Pais is the writer of the drama.
"Pen is mighty, it can do constructive or destructive work. So there is more responsibility on writers. Today many of us use e-pen, which is dangerous and at the same time has brought countries together. It has made the world a smaller place. I call upon all writers of the Christian community to influence the youngsters of the community to contribute to the society in a good way. I congratulate Richie John Pais and his team."
Veteran drama artiste Mabel Kent was felicitated on the occasion for her achievements in the field of Konkani drama.
Roy Castelino, president of Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy said, "This week many Konkani programmes were held. In spite of that, my heart is filled with joy to see so many people here. This is an answer to those who say Konkani is losing its ground. This drama is written by Richie John Pais and directed by John Permannur. Drama is not only a form of entertainment but it can also give a social message. By these dramas, Konkani can live long. Today Mabel Kent was felicitated and I think this was an honour given to Konkani language itself. They have chosen the right person. I congratulate each and everyone associated with this drama."
'Paanch Mornam' drew a large gathering of over 700 people who enjoyed every bit of the drama. People remained glued to their chairs until the last minute. The dialogues were punching and evoked a huge round of applause from the audience. It was a tragedy drama on contemporary issues played after a long time. The drama conveyed a moral message to the audience. It was evident that there was a connection between the characters on screen and personal experiences of people in the audience. The cast and crew did a brilliant job and did justice to both the story and the characters.
Artistes in the drama were Jossy Rego Bendur, Melvyn Peris Angelore, Martin D'souza Vamanjoor, Clita Noronha Jeppu, Nigel Pereira Milagres, Steven Fernandes Rosario, Sandeep Tellis Panir, Nishma D'Souza Valencia, Shahila D'Almeida Rosario, Alwyn Tauro Rosario, Vinolyn D'Souza Bendur. Nia Francisca Pais made special appearance. Harish was the makeup man. Nellu Permannur gave the music. Chris Electronics provided sounds and lights. Babitha D'Sa had rendered voice for the title song written by the drama author and tuned by Ashith Pinto. Jerry Concessao and Leslie Ferrao were in charge of stage management.
Fr J B Crasta blessed the occasion while Vincy Pinto compered the event.
Joseph Mathias, Ancy D'Souza, Titus Noronha, Pascal Pinto and Richie John pais were the dignitaries on the dais.