‘This Record Will Definitely Happen’ – Dinesh Gundu Rao Upon Unveiling the Logo
Mangalore: “Although the Konkani population is small, their enthusiasm and creativity are commendable. The Konkani community is at the forefront of the cultural realm and social service. Music is in their blood. Mandd Sobhann, an organization that has set many records, is now gearing up to create a new World Record with 6,000 singers and 5,000 songs. I am confident that this record will definitely be achieved. If possible, I will also attend the program,” said Dinesh Gundu Rao, the Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka.
He was speaking after inaugurating the First World Konkani Music Mega Convention, organized from November 3rd to 15th by the Premier Konkani Cultural Organization, Mandd Sobhann, on the occasion of its Ruby Jubilee celebrations. He inaugurated the event by lighting 12 differently colored lamps on a replica of a Veena and unveiled the convention’s logo from a flower bud.
Guest of Honor and MLC, Ivan Dsouza, handed over the Musical Baton to music director Joel Pereira and spoke. “Mandd Sobhann, an organization that has made magnificent achievements, has not yet been given the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award. The government’s attention will be drawn to this matter. The government must provide grants for this program, organized by an institution that forever flies the flag of Konkani glory high. I wish this record attempt a grand success,” he said.
Guest of Honor, Mangaluru South MLA Vedavyas Kamath, and Goan Artiste Michael Gracias conveyed their best wishes.
Delivering the introductory remarks, President Louis Pinto said, “Continuing the work of Eric Ozario, who brought immense glory to Konkani music, is the true tribute we can offer him. This will not just be a Guinness World Record attempt, but an opportunity to celebrate Konkani unity, hoist the Konkani flag to global heights, and thereby celebrate the rich heritage of Konkani Music. Seeing the discipline and impeccable organization of our programs, people have cooperated so far. This program will also be successful with everyone’s cooperation.”
Singer Joyce Ozario was honored during the event. MESCOM Chairman Harish Kumar, Mandd Sobhann Coordinator Stany Alvares, and Secretary Ronald Crasta were present on the dais. A singing performance was delivered by the ‘Sumell’ troupe led by Raina Sequeira. A documentary showcasing the journey of Mandd Sobhann was screened. Kalaangann ‘Pirjent’ Roy Castelino proposed the vote of thanks. Irene Rebello compered the program.