Daijiworld Media Network - Margao

Margao, Sep 15: 'Aitaracheo Katkutleo' a konkani book of humorous essays in Roman script was released at an impressive function in Utorda here recently.

Damodar Mauzo, noted Konknni writer and  Sahitya Akademi Award winner released the book in the distinguished presence of Premanand Lotlikar, President, Dalgado Konknni Akademi (DKA) and Fr Britto Fernandes,  parish priest of Our Lady of Lourdes, Utorda.

Addressing the large gathering comprising of writers, dramatists, Konkani lovers, villagers of Utorda, and students, Damodar Mauzo congratulated the Kuwait-based writer Lino B. Dourado for organizing the book release ceremony in the village where he spent his growing years and reminded the audience of the special bond that exists between us and "our mother, mother-tongue and mother-earth".

He also exhorted those present on the occasion to make it a practice to speak and write in Konknni, so that the language is enrichened and sustained for posterity. There is nothing wrong in learning English he said, but, one should not forget or neglect one's mother tongue. 

Premanand Lotlikar briefly narrated the objectives of Dalgado Konknni Akademi and appealed to everyone to promote Konknni in Roman script, and assured all necessary encouragement for writers in Roman  script  Konknni language, from DKA.

Jose Salvador Fernandes, well known Konknni writer, Konknni lecturer, and  Secretary of DKA, spoke on the book . As the name suggests, the essays in 'Aitaracheo Katkutleo', he said, not only tickle the reader but reveal the wisdom, wit and sarcasm of Lino B. Dourado as well. He complimented the writer for his keen sense of observation and for his tact in putting it in prose form. The book has been dedicated by the writer to his late parents Martinho Filipe Dourado and Antonetta Dourado. The book has been  published under the Goa Konknni Akademi's 'Poilo Chonvor' Scheme, meant for new writers. 

Konknni writer and poet Walter Menezes, Thomas C. Fernandes, Vincy Quadros, Editor of konknni magazine 'Jivit', Winner of Martyr Floriano Vaz Award 2007 for his book 'Koslich Malis Nastana' author Daniel F. de Souza,  Romi Lipi Action Front Convenor, Wilmix Wilson Mazarello, Fr Martinho Dourado, Parish Priest Our Lady of Amparo Church, Mandur,  Michael Gracias, and  Tarkeshwar Naik, were present at the book release function.

Earlier, Wency Pereira,  President of United Club of Utorda welcomed and Connie Dourado delivered the vote of thanks. Lino Dourado and Fr Britto Fernandes also spoke on the occasion.