|
Media Release
Mangalore, Sep 4: “We all know God speaks in a language of love. Konkani, our mother language is also full of love and affection for each other. Hence, love your mother and love your mother language”, urged Fr Paul Pinto, parish priest, Our Lady of Remedies, Kirem to his parishioners. He was presiding over the programme ‘Konkani Fuddhar Divas’ to mark 20th year of Konkani recognition day.
The programme was organized by the Parish Council Cultural Committee at Parish Bi Centenary Hall on Sunday September 2. He commended the role of members of Small Christian Community, who organize the cultural event for the past five years. “Unity is Strength. It’s only through solidarity we can strengthen our language alongside our Christian faith”, he said.
Hemacharya, editor in chief, daijiworld weekly was the chief guest. Addressing the parishioners he appreciated the efforts in rejuvenating Konkani cultural activities within the parish. “Kirem parish had been a pioneer in the struggle of Konkani in the olden days and quite many writers came from here”, he said.
He paid rich tribute to the efforts of Ko Pra Ma (Konkan Prachar Mandal) led by Isac Pinto which published ‘Kopramacho Tallo’, the first hand written Konkani magazine in the sixties. “But I feel, gradually the parish has lost its love and affection for its mother language and of late we don’t get to hear about any commendable Konkani activity from this region”, he regretted.
Fr Jerome D’Souza, principal, Pompeii Junior College felicitated meritorious students who brought distinction in April examinations at all levels. Rolling shields and prizes were distributed to the winners of inter-varado sports competitions.
Cultural committee member Santan D’Souza introduced the guests and welcomed the gathering. Marceline and Vinaya Saldanha conducted the programme. Cultural committee convener Burton Sequeira proposed the vote of thanks.
After a brief stage programme, 14 wards under the church council presented a much participated cultural programme which consisted of songs, dances, biblical tableau, and short comedy skits.
The traditional sweet dumplings steamed in turmeric leaves (Haldi Kolyanchi Patoli) prepared under the supervision of parish ward gurkars and small Christian community members were distributed to the audience who had gathered in large numbers.
|
