Pics: Stanly Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Sept 4: A heartfelt tribute to late Konkani cultural icon Eric Ozario was held at Bendur Mini Hall on Thursday, September 4, organised by the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Akademi. The event gathered literary and cultural leaders who fondly remembered Ozario’s lifelong service to Konkani music, language and identity.
Walter Nandalike, founder of Daijiworld Media Pvt Ltd, addressed the gathering and remembered Eric Ozario as a man of remarkable inner strength, openness and forgiveness.
“Eric never hesitated to express what he felt. In the Konkani music and linguistic world, everyone experienced both his appreciation and his corrections. His openness often brought him critics, even haters, but he taught us how to remain strong in a world full of judgement,” said Nandalike.
He noted three standout traits in Eric’s life — resilience, a forgiving nature, and unbreakable willpower.
“He turned criticism into achievement. He never wasted time trying to convince people — he simply lived by what he believed. Eric greeted even those who opposed him with the same warmth. He never held grudges. Despite battling kidney disease, he never let it dampen his spirit. Right till the end, he remained active at Kalaangann and other Konkani events,” Nandalike added.
In his introductory remarks, Stany Alvares, president of the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Akademi, spoke of his 30-year-long association with Ozario.
“Thirty years ago, Eric held my hand and invited me to work with him. From that day, I stood with him for Konkani language and culture. He taught me leadership and commitment. When Eric was president of the Akademi, its working style gained new momentum. Roy Castelino later carried forward that same vision. It is our duty to honour a man who gave so much to our community,” he said.
Other speakers reflected on different facets of Ozario’s legacy. Concepta Fernandes highlighted his organisational leadership. Charan Mallya acknowledged his pioneering contribution to Konkani music and culture. Stevan Quadros spoke of his influence in education and his leadership in the Akademi.
During the ceremony, the Akademi honoured Joyce Ozario, wife of the late Eric Ozario, in a touching moment of recognition. The Ozario family also offered floral tributes at the venue.
Samarth Bhat, member of the Akademi, delivered the vote of thanks. Rony Arun compered the programme.
The event was attended by many noted personalities from the Konkani world, including Luvi J Pinto, president of Mandd Sobhann, Roy Castelino, PRO of the Mangalore Diocese, and other writers, artists and cultural leaders — all of whom came together to honour a man who lived for his language, people and legacy.