Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SB)

Mangaluru, Aug 23: The Konkani Sangh of Milagres College celebrated the 25th 'Konkani Manyata Divas' at Milagres College auditorium here on Tuesday August 22.

Principal of the college, Fr Michael Santhumayor presided over the programme. Paul Moras, writer and member of Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy, Devadas Pai, registrar Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy and Denzil Pereira were the chief guests on the occasion.

After inaugurating the programme, Paul Moras said, "Twenty-five years have gone by after the Konkani language was entered in the 8th Schedule of our Constitution. When the announcement came from the government, we rejoiced with loud slogans. It was thrilling moment for us. Because of the hard work of many Konkani writers and supporters, our mother tongue became one of the national languages. Besides literary works, these leaders have given much needed leadership to Konkani community.

"I am happy to see that young generation continues to work for the promotion and protection of our mother tongue. Of course, there are complaints that today's youth are not much into learning Konkani. But we cannot blame them. Parents should teach them Konkani and tell them about the rich legacy of our mother tongue," he added.

Speaking on the occasion, Fr Michael Santhumayor said, "Today, people have lots of opportunities in the field of Konkani language. There is opportunity to secure degree in our mother tongue now. We need not have doubts about learning Konkani as it leads to employment now. We have gathered here today with love and interest for our mother tongue. I salute the Konkani Sangh of our college for organising this wonderful event."

Paul Moras and Denzil Pereira were felicitated by Fr Santumayor on the occasion.

Devadas Pai distributed the prizes to the winning schools in folk song competition which was held at college as part of the celebration.

Prior to the programme, there was a workshop on ‘Vovyo Ani Varse’ conducted by Anil D’Cunha and Irene D’Cunha.

Lavita , coordinator of Milagres Konkani Sangh welcomed the gathering. Prem Sequeira rendered vote of thanks. Anisha D'Souza compered the event.

More than 500 students and teachers from various colleges and schools took part in the programme.