Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (MM/MB)

Mangalore, Aug 18: The first death anniversary of well-known Konkani writer Johny Suratkal was observed at Suratkal on Saturday August 18.

Henry Surathkal, Panchu Bantwal and Dophy Cascia

Kuwait-based Johny was suddenly taken ill while on holidays in Mangalore in August 2006 and breathed his last in Fr Muller Hospital.

Following a prayer service in Sacred Heart Church in Suratkal, a condolence meet was held in the auditorium of Hotel Lalith International.

Walter Nandalike

Dolphy Cascia, former editor of ‘Jhelo’ Konkani monthly, also family friend of Johny Suratkal, spoke on his close association with Johny and said that his death came as a great loss to the Konkani literary world.

Walter Nandalike, editor-in-chief of ‘www.daijiwold.com,’ spoke about the late Johny Suratkal and recalled his contribution towards Konkani literature, his helping nature and friendly disposition.

Hundreds of Johny's well-wishers and relatives, Konkani writers, musicians, religious brothers and sisters and his friends from Kuwait were present on the occasion.

Henry D’Silva proposed vote of thanks. Panchu Bantwal compered the programme.