Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (RJP)
Mangaluru, Apr 10: Veteran Konkani writer, playwright and activist Lancy Pinto Nayak passed away on Sunday, April 10 in the city. He was 60.
Incidentally, his demise came only three days after the release of his latest novel 'Sukhidhad' in a function at Mangalore University on April 7. He was actively interacting with friends and well-wishers till the end, and in fact, had last updated his Facebook page at 11.06 pm on Saturday April 9.
At the launch of his latest novel 'Sukhidhad'
Born on December 13, 1955 in Kinnigoli, his first story was published in the year 1972 in 'Mithr' weekly. Over the years, he wrote hundreds of short stories, 11 novels, 33 Konkani stage plays/skits, 100 articles, poems, reviews and interviews.
His novel ‘Cheddum’ was rewarded with the late Louis Mascarenhas Birth Centenary Award in 1989, ‘Pattim Golfak’ won the award from Konkani Bhasha Mandal Goa in 1989 and ‘Vidhov’ won 2 awards, Karnataka Sahitya Academy award and the Late Louis Mascarenhas Birth Centenary award in 1991. His popular drama ‘Airik Soirik’ won prizes from Kala Sampath Mangalore. In addition the same stage play was also awarded by Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy Award and Dr TMA Foundation book award in 1997. In 2010, Daiji Dubai honoured him with its Literary Award.
He breathed his last due to brain haemorrhage he suffered. He was admitted into a private hospital.
He was a resident of Kulshekar. He was in Kuwait for the past few years and came back to Mangaluru for good just a few weeks ago.
He leaves behind his wife Jacintha, son Dagny Ian Pinto and daughter Daphny Ruweena Pinto.