By Alfie D'Souza, Pics by JP, Team Mangalorean

Mangalore: Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy hosted “Konkani Samvedana”, a programme to honour the talented tabla player S. Shivanand Shet on Saturday July 14, at Sahitya Academy premises. Ashok Shet, Convener  welcomed the guests and the august gathering.

The programme was inaugurated by lighting the traditional lamp by Mangaldas Gulwadi, a renowned Tabla artist. Kasargod Chinna, the President of Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy introduced the guests to the audience, and also spoke about the projects and history of the academy.

He said that the idea of organizing ' Konkani Samvedana' was to recognize the talents and contribution of disabled musicians, singers, artists, writers and other talents. Referring to Shivanand Shet, a disabled but talented artist, Chinna mentioned that it was the task of the academy to encourage such extra talented people. He also said that Shet had been a much sought after accompanying tabla artist.  To honour such kind of disabled, yet talented persons is indeed a blessing and honour for the academy. Right now by taking an initiative in honouring Shet, we have made a start with the project of Shivanand Shet.

Shivanand Shet, who is physically challenged since childhood, had been an accompanying artiste for many singers, also including well known vocalists like Puttur Narasimha Nayak and many other renowned artists and musicians. Shet presently resides in Car Street, Mangalore.

Other dignitaries on the dais included Vasanthi R Nayak, well-known musician, Dr. Devdas pai, Registrar, and Agnel Rodrigues, CEO of Coastal Times TV. The vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. Devdas Pai.

The inaugural formalities, was followed by a 30 minutes musical treat rendered by Shivanand Shet on Tabla , accompanied by Venkatesh Rao on harmonium, Lokesh Moodbidri on flute, and Shilpa on Tala.