Report & Pics by Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai (RD)
Mumbai, Oct 31: Bishop Thomas Dabre of Vasai diocese unveiled the sign board of Vasai Konkani Sangh, here on Wednesday October 29 morning and offered motion to the future programmes of Sangh, by lighting the lamp at the occasion.
Bishop Thomas Dabre, speaking at the occasion, said that India is the abode of multicultural, multi religious and diverse society. It's the responsibility of everyone to nurture his mother tongue. Konkani with its centuries of history is the preferred language of Maharastra populace. It is significant that the Christian missionaries settled in Vasai diocese had made the best of Konkani literature to propagate the faith here that was well blended with Marati.
Meanwhile, Bishop commended the Konkani Sangh being set up in the once popular diocesan centre of Vasai and conveyed best wishes to succeed in its yeomen service to the people.
Aldel Education Trust chairman Albert W D Souza was the chief guest, said that Konkani Sangh set up in the suburban Vasai would unite Konkani speaking community under one umbrella to work for the betterment of society. Christian Konkans are hardworking people who strive to extend their mite to popularize Konkani, traditions and its ancient culture along with their trade or profession.
Fr Oswald Gonsalves, Malaika Appliances Private Limited manager Naveen Kulshekar, entrepreneur Praveen E More, Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy former president Eric Ozario and Sr Celine were present at the dais.
Sangh members Flavia Mendonca, Richard Louis, John Rodrigues, Patrick Menezes, Reginald Santumayer, Ivan Rebello, Alwyn D Souza, Francis D Souza, Melvin Mendonca and Avin pinto were also present.
Vasai Konkani Sangh member Ened D Souza welcomed the gathering, while president Steven A Fernandes welcomed the guests with flower bouquets. Leo Fernandes and Ancy Paladka compered the programme.
Konkani Baila Dhoom, a musical concert of Mandd Sobhan led by Vishwa Konkani Kalaratn Eric Ozario was staged as part of entertainment programme. Mangalore Naach Sobhan, dance troupe mesmerized the audience with their traditional dance and comedian Nellu Permannur presented various skits at the occasion.