Media Release

Mumbai, Nov 10: The Maharashtra Konkani Kala Sanstha here organized the fifth Konkani Amateur Singing Competetion at Our Lady's Home, Dadar here, recently.

The chief guest for the contest was Bella Coutinho, a choreographer for folk dances and wife of the well-known tiatrist, late Seby Coutinho. Three personalities, well-known for their contribution towards Konkani music, namely, Tony Dias, Nephie Rod Pradhan and Baptist Pais, judged the 60 contestants who took part in the Solo, Duo-Duet and Group singing in 3 different age groups.

Lawrence Coelho and Susan Coelho of DIVO and SECULAR CITIZEN were the guests of honour at the event which started with a prayer by Divo Sahitya Puroskar awardee Fr Baptist Pais. In all 31 entrants were selected through the hardwork and dedication of Divo Life Time Achievement Awardee Victor oncessao from the Sacared Heart Parish, Mahakali, Andheri (e). Leo Fernandes from Maharashtra Konkan Association brought in 9 enteries. It was a pleasure listening to new talents at the well-organized competetion.

The MKKS has promised the winners, a platform to show-case their talent at the Lorna Nite to be held in the month of January 2011.

There were 14 winners, who stood at first and second place in the 7 different sections. The Alshsan Gudinho Super Singer Rolling Trophy in memory of late C ALVARES was given to Mylin Dantas and The Elcy De Elly Mini Rolling Trophy in memory of James De Elly was won by Augustine Coelho with cash prizes of Rs 3000 and Rs 2000 respectively along with gift hampers.

Susan Coelho, gave away certificates of appreciation and gifts to all the 60 participants. Bella Coutinho, handed over certificates and trophies to the winners.  

The competetion ended with the vote of thanks by Evan Fernandes, the president off the MKKS and a prayer followed by a hymn by Fr Baptist Pais. Francis Fernandes, the secretary of the MKKS compered the contest.