Gerry D'Mello
Daijiworld Media Network - Toronto
Toronto, Dec 9: Radio Mango, the first ever Konkani channel that created history in North American hemisphere by broadcasting Konkani programme, after a brief silence got back melodiously on November 6. Undoubtedly that was yet another red-letter-day for the Konkani diaspora and it was a matter of pride and immense joy for thousands of Konkani speaking people residing in Canada and worldwide.
On the occasion of its glorious return the president, producer and host of Radio Mango informed Daijiworld Canada that – “Today is the birthday of my beloved brother Milton, who is up there, shining among the stars. Radio Mango’s first comeback show is dedicated to his memory – for his steadfast love and support for Radio Mango, and Konkani language and culture. Memories never die…”.
It is a great feeling when you give birth to a great idea and the feeling becomes even stronger as you start nurturing it, watching it grow slowly, but surely. Making sure everything goes right so that one day it can stand tall and proud. Yes, Radio Mango had taken its first step on September 29, 2012 towards carving a tiny but significant niche for itself in the world of entertainment. Kudos to the founding team - Milena, Alan, Pedro and Wilson who are proud of their beloved offspring have succeeded in taking this project to a way higher level than expected through their tremendous selfless dedication and hard-work. Through this one and only Konkani Radio broadcast in the Western and Northern hemispheres they have succeeded in bringing joy into countless homes. Not just here in Canada, but in the USA, India, England, Germany, Dubai, Pakistan and even as far as Australia.
With a mission statement ‘Amchi Bhaas, Amkham Khaas’ every broadcast on Radio Mango starts with an awesome signature tune composed by Goa's renowned musician and lyricist Lawrence de Tiracol and ends with sweet and juicy greetings by the brain & brawn of this Konkani Radio broadcast who is none other than Milena Marques-Zachariah. The programme generously delivers Konkani entertainment with Goan/Mangalurean Konkani songs, interviews with great Konkani personalities in Canada and Goan/Mangalurean news.
‘We were the First, we are the Future’
In Milena’s own words – “Radio Mango created waves in Canada, indeed all over the world, by being the first radio programme in Konkani in North America. We went on air on September 29, 2012, on FM 101.3, and every Saturday thereafter for 6 years. Being one of a kind, Radio Mango gained popularity all over the world. For the very first time, we specifically targeted the South Asian diaspora from the Konkan coast, providing a voice and platform to this segment that has been part of the Canadian mosaic since the early 60’s, but had never been spoken to in their own language before. Radio Mango fans expect the best from us. Hence, we always set high standards for ourselves. Growing from strength to strength, we have built a strong listenership from coast to coast to coast in Canada, and all over the world. .Our excellent programming has made us favourites with Konkani lovers all over the globe - from Australia to Zanzibar – even inspiring other Konkani programmes. Now I am back as your host to take you on a nostalgic journey through old, familiar songs, while introducing you to the talent of our young artistes. Through your favourite programme, we aim to bring together the various Konkani speaking communities while helping the community identify with its roots and cultural heritage through a common and strong touch point: language. All global Goans and Mangalureans, wherever in the world, get ready to get entertained and informed, and re-experience and re-connect with our roots.”
About the President, Producer and Host of Radio Mango
Milena Marques-Zachariah is an accomplished writer, columnist and blogger. With over 25 years experience in multi-national advertising in India, Dubai and Canada, she has gained critical international experience in creating and building brands. Her creative shop, Out Of My Mind, is focused on the South Asian and ethnic markets in Canada. She has worked as creative director and multicultural communications specialist with leading agencies, helping major national and international brands relate to their consumers by aligning their messages to ethnic markets. This valuable exposure came in handy when she conceived and launched Radio Mango – the first and only Konkani language broadcast in North America. She has interviewed mayors and ministers, and eminent authors like Pico Iyer and Anosh Irani. Her journalistic contributions include a column ‘Confessions of an Immigrant Housewife’ in a leading South Asian newspaper, and essays and poetry in various anthologies. Canadian Chronicles is yet another creative pursuit, where she blogs the extraordinary journeys of new immigrants to Canada - waiting to be published as a book. Her current blog: ‘Chasing the perfect Curry’ has gained international popularity among foodies and those seeking unchartered adventures.
Milena is a global citizen born in India, with work experience in the UAE for 12 years, and is now a Canadian citizen since 2 decades. She has widely travelled.
Now the Konkani music lovers worldwide can tune into nostalgia on the easily available podcast, every Saturday - featuring the best of Goan and Mangalurean music and culture. Further details are also available on their website www.radiomango.ca and the Facebook page Radio Mango Toronto.