KONKANIZ Launched to Unite Konkani Communities Across the Globe
- Collective Platform Seeks to Build Bridges Across Dialects, Scripts and Geographical Boundaries
Mangaluru: KONKANIZ, a collective platform aimed at bringing together Konkani-speaking communities across the globe, was launched in Mangaluru on Wednesday in the presence of dignitaries and representatives of Konkani-speaking communities.
The community-driven platform, with the active support of Dr Vivek Mendonsa of the Mendonsa Foundation, seeks to unite Konkani-speaking communities on a common platform and build bridges between people separated by dialects, scripts and geographical boundaries. It aims to strengthen shared bonds by promoting the Konkani language, cuisine, music, dance, cinema, sports and cultural heritage.
As a precursor to its broader vision of building lasting bonds of unity through creative expression, the Department of Konkani, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), will screen the internationally acclaimed Konkani film Nachom-ia Kumpasar at LCRI Hall on the university campus on Friday, September 18, 2026, at 3.45 p.m.
The screening is being organised under the leadership of Prof. Flora Castelino, Head of the Department of Konkani, in association with Mr Rex Fernandes and Mr Bardroy Barretto, the film’s director, writer and producer.
Produced by Goa Folklore Productions, Nachom-ia Kumpasar is among the most celebrated films in the history of Konkani cinema. The film has received 24 international honours, three National Awards and 10 Goa State Awards. It has also been recognised at the London Indian Film Festival and screened at several prestigious film festivals worldwide.
Set against Goa’s vibrant music scene of the 1960s and 1970s, the film draws inspiration from the lives and music of legendary Goan musicians. Through memorable Konkani songs, powerful performances and evocative storytelling, it pays tribute to an extraordinary generation of Goan musicians whose contributions helped take Konkani music beyond India’s shores.
The screening forms part of a broader cultural vision to bring the people of Goa and Karnataka closer together. Although the two states have distinct identities and traditions, they are connected by centuries of shared history, the Konkani language, migration, music, faith, cuisine and family ties.
Speaking about the initiative, Prof. Flora Castelino said:
“Language and culture have the power to build bridges between people. Through cinema, drama, literature, music and other creative expressions, we want the younger generation to understand and appreciate the deep cultural relationship between Goa and Karnataka. Nachom-ia Kumpasar is an ideal film with which to strengthen this dialogue.”
Mr Rex Fernandes said: “This film is not merely entertainment; it is a tribute to Konkani music, musicians and the cultural memories of an entire generation. We are delighted that the film is being presented at St Aloysius, an institution that has consistently supported Konkani language, literature and culture.”
Mr Bardroy Barretto added: “Goa and Karnataka may have distinct identities, but we share so much—our language, music, food, memories and, above all, our people. These connections have endured across generations and geography.
“I believe cinema can help us rediscover what unites us. Nachom-ia Kumpasar is rooted in the memories and music of Goa, but its emotions belong to a much larger Konkani world. I hope this screening opens the door to more films, music, conversations and collaborations between Goa and Karnataka.”
The organisers envision the screening as part of a continuing Goa–Karnataka cultural exchange involving films, drama, theatre, music, dance, food festivals, literature, heritage programmes and sporting activities. Such engagements, they said, could encourage students, artists, cultural organisations and citizens from both states to meet, collaborate and celebrate their shared heritage.
The initiative also seeks to encourage people to celebrate their distinct identities while rediscovering their shared roots and building a lasting cultural bridge between Goa and Karnataka.
Those present at the press meet included Dr Vivek Mendonsa, H.M. Pernal, Rex Fernandes, Antonio Fernandes and Titus Noronha.