Mandd Sobhann Creates History with 12 Days, 12 Hours and 12 Minutes of Non-Stop Singing, Setting a New Guinness World Record
Mangaluru: In a historic moment for the Konkani-speaking community across the globe, Mandd Sobhann successfully completed its ambitious 12 days, 12 hours and 12 minutes of non-stop singing, marking a major milestone in its bid to set a Guinness World Record. The historic musical celebration concluded on November 15 at Town Hall, Mangaluru, fulfilling the long-cherished dream of Mandd Sobhann’s late Gurkar, Eric Ozario.
The remarkable vision of the late Eric Ozario was brought to fruition under the leadership of Mandd Sobhann President Louis J. Pinto. His determination, dedication, and tireless efforts transformed an ambitious dream into a historic reality, creating an unforgettable milestone in the journey of Konkani music and culture.
The previous Guinness World Record for the longest singing marathon by multiple singers stood at 11 days, 11 hours and 11 minutes (275 hours and 11 minutes). The record was set by Shree Harikrushna Kirtan Yaag in Vadtal, India, from July 9 to July 20, 2024, to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Shree Swaminarayan Mandir, Vadtaldham.
Determined to surpass this record, Mandd Sobhann organised the First World Konkani Music Mega Convention, featuring a non-stop musical marathon lasting 12 days, 12 hours and 12 minutes. The event commenced at 6 a.m. on November 3.
The convention was inaugurated by Goa Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant, in the presence of the Bishop of Mangaluru Diocese, Dr Peter Paul Saldanha. The inauguration marked the beginning of an extraordinary musical journey dedicated to promoting and preserving the Konkani language and its rich musical heritage.
The mega convention witnessed the participation of an impressive 300 teams comprising 6,789 singers from diverse backgrounds and regions. Together, they rendered more than 4,500 Konkani songs composed by over 250 composers, showcasing the richness, diversity and timeless appeal of Konkani music.
For 12 days, 12 hours and 12 minutes, Town Hall resonated with melodious Konkani songs, creating an atmosphere of celebration, unity and cultural pride. Singers belonging to different generations came together on a common platform, demonstrating their passion for music and commitment to preserving the Konkani language and its musical traditions.
The organisers made elaborate arrangements to ensure the smooth and uninterrupted conduct of the marathon. The event brought together singers, musicians, volunteers, coordinators, technical teams, supporters and well-wishers. Their collective efforts and dedication played a vital role in making this ambitious record attempt possible.
The convention commenced with a performance by the Izo’yche Ko’lle Bejai group, setting the musical tone for the historic event. After 12 days, 12 hours and 12 minutes of continuous singing, the marathon concluded with a performance by the Sumell Mandd Sobhann group, bringing the extraordinary musical journey to a memorable close.
The successful completion of the marathon is not merely a remarkable record attempt but also a tribute to the vision of the late Eric Ozario and the collective strength of the Konkani community. It demonstrates how dedication, teamwork and a shared passion for one’s language and culture can transform an ambitious dream into reality.
The First World Konkani Music Mega Convention will remain etched in the history of Konkani culture as a landmark celebration that brought together thousands of voices on one platform. It has sent a powerful message that Konkani music and cultural traditions continue to flourish across generations.
A Dream Fulfilled, A Record Attempt Completed, and Konkani Music Celebrated!