Konkani Community’s Contribution to Mangalore Celebrated at Kalakar Puraskar Ceremony
Mangaluru: The significant role of the Konkani community in the development of Mangalore city was lauded by MLA Vedavyas Kamath during the 21st Kalakar Puraskar ceremony held at Kalangann on November 2nd. The event, which also marked the 287th Monthly Theatre, celebrated the contributions of Srinivasa Rao S., widely known as Kasaragod Chinna, a distinguished figure in Konkani theatre, literature, and cinema.
The Kalakar Puraskar, a joint initiative by the Carvalho Household and Mandd Sobhann, was presented to Kasaragod Chinna by MLA D. Vedavyas Kamath. The award comprised a shawl, a garland, fruits, a memento, and a cash prize of Rs 50,000.
In his address, Mr. Kamath emphasized the Konkani community’s integral role in shaping Mangalore, highlighting the contributions of dramatists like Kasaragod Chinna and composers like Eric Ozario. He also noted the increasing recognition of the Konkani language, exemplified by its use in the Lok Sabha. Mr. Kamath urged collective efforts to promote the Konkani language and ensure its transmission to future generations, pledging his support for the completion of the Konkani Bhavan.
Accepting the honor, Kasaragod Chinna expressed his gratitude and emphasized the unifying power of languages. He acknowledged the diverse efforts of Konkani organizations while noting disparities in literary contributions across different Konkani communities. He called for unity in advancing Konkani, despite potential differences of opinion.
Stanley Fernandes ‘Dattu’, a prominent patron of the arts and a key figure in the Konkani community in Oman, graced the occasion as the guest of honor. Rev. Dr. Pratap Naik SJ, representing the Carvalho Gharane, provided an insightful overview of the award’s origins and evolution.
Michael Dsouza (Dubai) and Jerry Pinto (Qatar), key supporters of Kalakul and Mandd Sobhann respectively, were recognized with floral tributes. Treasurer Sunil Monteiro read the citation, while Louis Pinto (President, Mandd Sobhann), Rony Crasta (Secretary), Roy Castelino (Kalangann Pirjent), and Anita, the spouse of Chinna, were present on the dais. The felicitation ceremony was skillfully compered by Yogita Bellare, with Keron Madtha handling the announcements.
Following the award ceremony, the 287th Monthly Theatre commenced with Dubai-based businessman Francis Dsouza ringing the bell. The evening featured the 17th ‘Maxim Nite’, showcasing the talents of Melody Star Maxim Pereira and his troupe. Maxim Pereira, Shilpa Cutinha, Prakash Dsouza, Sonal Monteiro, Priya Menezes, William Rebello, Genelia Saldanha, and Derrick Machado delivered captivating performances, accompanied by the ‘G-Major’ band, featuring Sheldon Pereira (Bass Guitar), Alister Dsouza (Lead Guitar), Veekshith (Tabla), Milton Pereira (Drums), Macklin Dsouza (Keyboard), and Sunil Kumar (Violin). The team ‘Maskiri Manglur,’ consisting of Joseph D’Souza and Nilesh, provided comedic relief with their skits. Sheldon Crasta and Glany Fernandes served as the comperes for the theatrical performances.
