Media Release

Mangaluru, Aug 31: The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM), Omzoor unit, celebrated Konkani Manyata Divas with devotion and pride on Sunday, August 31.

The event took place at the church premises, shortly after the novena to the Nativity of Mother Mary, bringing together parishioners, youth, and community leaders in a spirited tribute to the Konkani language and culture.

The programme began with a cordial welcome by the master of ceremonies, Diyola D'Souza, who extended warm greetings to the distinguished guests. Among those present were: Fr William Menezes, parish priest and director of ICYM Omzoor; Fr Victor D'Souza, residential priest and assistant director of ICYM Omzoor; Arthur D'Souza, vice president of the parish pastoral council (PPC); Dafny Lewis, secretary of PPC; Elroy Saldanha, 18 commission coordinator and ICYM animator; and Dean Jones Vas, president of ICYM Omzoor. The gathering was further graced by the presence of the honorary guest, Raymond D'Cunha, esteemed editor of Pingara and a renowned orator from Moodbidri.

The ceremonial unfurling of the Konkani flag set the tone for the morning, symbolising unity, pride, and respect for the mother tongue. This was followed by an address from Raymond D'Cunha, who captivated the audience with his eloquence.

He emphasised the importance of speaking Konkani within families and communities, remarking that language forms the foundation of culture and identity. He also highlighted the pride the community shares in Konkani being recognised in the Constitution of India, affirming its status as a national language.

Adding to the reflections, Fr William Menezes spoke on the responsibility of the younger generation to safeguard and pass on the rich legacy of Konkani. He reminded the youth that preserving language is not just about words, but about upholding traditions, values, and identity.

A solemn moment of silence followed as the gathering remembered and prayed for the soul of the late Eric Ozario, Gurkar and founder of Mandd Sobhann and recipient of the prestigious title "Vishwa Konkani Kala Ratna", who passed away on August 29 at the age of 76. The congregation recited the "eternal rest" prayer in his memory, acknowledging his immense contributions to the Konkani community.

The cultural segment of the evening featured a skit performed by ICYM members. The engaging performance drew a contrast between old and modern Konkani traditions, creatively conveying the importance of preserving the richness of Konkani culture amidst changing times. The audience responded with appreciation, reflecting the community’s shared commitment to its heritage.

The event concluded on a note of gratitude, with emcee Diyola D'Souza expressing heartfelt thanks to the parish clergy, dignitaries, ICYM members, guests, and parishioners for their active participation and encouragement. She acknowledged the collective effort that made the celebration a meaningful success.

Through the day’s proceedings, Konkani Manyata Divas at Omzoor was not just a cultural event, but a heartfelt expression of love for the mother tongue and a reaffirmation of the community’s resolve to preserve and promote its linguistic and cultural heritage for generations to come.