Mangalore: A Trendsetter in Konkani Folklore Research—‘Mogrem-Karan’

Pics: Prajwal Ukkuda
Daijiworld Media Network—Mangalore (TU/CN)

Mangalore, Nov 17: K K Pai, president, TMA Pai Pratistan, Manipal, released Konkani folklore book ‘Mogrem-Karan’, authored by Paul Moras at the TMA Pai International Convention Centre on Sunday November 16.

The book is published by Padval Prakashan and is the third publication about the Konkani movement. Addressing the gathering, chief guest Dr M Mohan Alva, chairman, Alva’s Shiksan Pratistan, said that folklore and culture of every community in the world has been confronted with globalization on their fight for survival. It is need of the hour to attract the younger generation to their folklore, he said.

‘It is sad that many of us are unaware of the meaning of folklore. Conducting cultural and folklore programmes will be a futile exercise until one has knowledge about them’, he opined. Praising author Moras, he said that a research book on Konkani folklore is a great contribution to society, which will enrich the language. Such work should be done in every language to uplift the variety of folklore in the country, added Dr Alva.

‘The contribution of the Muslim community of North India to Indian folklore, is phenomenal. Unfortunately, most of the South Indian Muslims never show interest in  such activities. Every community should work to uplift their language, culture, and tradition’, he stressed.

Basti Vaman Shenoy, Fr William D’Silva, Fr Godfrey Saldanha and Fr Ronald Serrao also spoke on the occasion. Goan freedom fighter and Sahitya Akademi award winner Nagesh Karmali was felicitated.  Melvyn Rodrigues introduced the poet to the audience.

Fr Francis Rodrigues welcomed the gathering. K K Pai presided over the function. Fr Eric Crasta proposed vote of thanks. Sandesha artistes performed folk dances.