Daijiworld Media Network – Puttur
Puttur, Sep 15: The Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy, in collaboration with the GSB Mahila Mandali, Puttur, organized Konkani Rangataranga and Sahitya Sambhrama-3 at the Sukratindra Kalamandira, Puttur, on Sunday, September 14.
The programme was presided over by academy president Joachim Stany Alvares. In his introductory address, he said, “The Karnataka government established the Konkani Sahitya Academy to promote literature, art, and folklore. The Academy is making efforts to reach people, create awareness about its role, and bring closer those who have contributed to literature, art, and folk culture.”
Dr Ashok Prabhu, Dharma Darshi and manager of Shri Lakshmi Venkataraman Temple, inaugurated the event by lighting the lamp. In his address, he observed, “The usage of the Konkani language is declining in present times. Therefore, we must start speaking Konkani at home itself. Only then can we preserve and develop the language.”
Chief guest Dr Y Umanath Shenai, leader of the Kudala Deshastha Gowda Brahmin community, spoke about the origins of Konkani, its history, and his research on the subject, while extending his best wishes for the event.
As part of the academy’s Sahitya Sambhrama segment, veteran Konkani musician Panduranga Nayak engaged in a conversation with artist Krishnananda Nayak of the Patanjali Yoga Shikshana Samiti, sharing insights on his interest in music and his journey in the field.
The programme also featured a food festival, a handicrafts exhibition, and cultural performances. A comedy play titled Patto Nattille Rail was staged at the conclusion of the event.
Continuing its tradition of honouring writers each month, the academy felicitated senior litterateur Ullas K Pai during the programme. Additionally, talented individuals were honoured by the GSB Mahila Mandali.
The event was attended by Vidya M Bhat, president of GSB Mahila Mandali, and academy members Samarth Bhat and Naveen Lobo. The proceedings were compered by Poornima Mallya, while Vidya Bhat proposed the vote of thanks.