Media Release

Mangaluru, Sep 7: The Konkani Natak Sabha (KNS), Mangaluru, proudly organised the second Annual Gumta Gayan Competition for various teams from the Mangaluru and Udupi dioceses on Saturday, September 6, at the historic Don Bosco Hall. The evening was a true celebration of Konkani culture and tradition.

The event began on a soulful note with the KNS anthem, followed by a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony led by Floyd D’Mello, vice president of KNS, along with philanthropist and well-wisher Santhosh Sequeira, who was the chief guest of the event.

The vibrant ceremony was further graced by Marcel D’Souza (Machcha Milar) as guest of honour. The dignitaries were joined on stage by general secretary Pamela Santos, assistant secretary Jerome Moras, treasurer Ivan D’Silva, competition conveners Anil D’Cunha and Loy Rego, and the esteemed panel of judges.

In his inspiring welcome address, vice president Floyd D’Mello Cascia highlighted the glorious 82-year journey of KNS in uplifting the Konkani language and nurturing artistic talent. He proudly recalled how KNS had pioneered several competitions such as the Voviyo Verse Competition in 2019, which later inspired parishes and other organisations to adopt the tradition.

“Similarly, last year we introduced the Gumta Gayan Competition, and today, in its second edition, we are thrilled to see this unique celebration of the gumott – the only traditional percussion instrument of Konkani. Our dream is that this competition will inspire others to preserve and promote the legacy of Gumta Gayan for future generations,” he said.

The judging panel featured renowned personalities:

• Joel Pereira, fondly known as Sangeet Guru, noted musician and film director.

• Lynette Pereira, accomplished gumott player and lecturer.

During the programme, Sangeet Guru Joel Pereira paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Eric Ozario, recalling his relentless fight for workers’ rights, his life-long dedication to Konkani art, music, and culture, and his invaluable contributions alongside Chafra D’Costa.

“The best tribute we Konkani people can give to Eric Ozario is to attend Konkani programmes, support our language, and ensure that our art and culture live on through the generations,” he expressed.

The event ran seamlessly under the leadership of KNS Manager Gerald Concessao. Ivan D’Silva meticulously tabulated the results, while the KNS Cordel unit and committee members extended strong support, joined by Stany Bela, Joseph Theodore, and others.

The stage décor was beautifully crafted by Glanny D’Souza (Bajal unit), while the technical support came from Daijiworld Media Pvt Ltd, with expertise from Christopher Mascarenhas (Bendur unit) and Deon Joshwin Pinto (Cascia unit).

On behalf of the judging panel, Lynette Pereira shared encouraging feedback with the participants. The event was compered with charm by Loy Rego, who also delivered the vote of thanks. Judges’ introductions and the announcement of results were done by Anil D’Cunha.

The competition was a melodious blend of tradition and talent, leaving the audience enthralled and reaffirming KNS’s commitment to safeguarding and celebrating the richness of Konkani culture.

Results of the Gumta Gayan competition:

• Winner: Rang Tarang Bidryam, Moodbidri

• Runner-up: Gumtam Daiz, Cordel

• Second Runner-up: St Aloysius University, Mangaluru

• Consolation Prizes: Karkolche Yuvak, Karkal & Amit Moras & Group , Kelarai