Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 16: The Konkani Natak Sabha (KNS), one of the region’s oldest and most respected cultural institutions, hosted the grand finale of its 61st Annual Konkani Singing Competition on Sunday, September 14, at Don Bosco Hall, Mangaluru.
Held in a festive, culturally rich atmosphere, the event began at 10 am and attracted a large gathering of music enthusiasts, artistes, and supporters of Konkani heritage. With more than 150 participants across 13 categories, the competition reaffirmed its reputation as a premier platform for both budding and seasoned vocalists in the Konkani community.
The programme opened with a soulful rendition of the KNS Anthem.
The competition was inaugurated with the lighting of the lamp by KNS vice president Floyd D’Mello, together with philanthropist and chief guest Santhosh Sequeira Kankanady and renowned singer Ivan Sequeira Valencia.
Joining them on the dais were KNS general secretary Pamela Santos, assistant secretary Jerome Moras, treasurer Ivan D’Silva, the competition judges, followed by competition conveners Joseph Theodore and Flavia Mascarenhas.
This year’s contest featured a vibrant track-singing format, culminating in a grand finale with the top five finalists who advanced through two earlier elimination rounds.
Participants ranging in age from 5 to 10 years, 10 to 15 years, 15 to 45 years, and above 45 years competed in solo, duet, mixed-group, and married-couple categories. A total of 61 performances reached the final stage, captivating the audience with their range, style, and musical artistry.
The concluding ceremony in the evening was graced by an impressive line-up of dignitaries:
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Walter Nandalike, founder & managing director of Daijiworld Media Pvt Ltd
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Silvia D’Silva and Vincent D’Silva of MDVK
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Noted philanthropist Santhosh Sequeira
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Anil Lobo, chairman of MCC Bank Ltd.
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Fr Gerald Lobo OFM Cap, superior of St Anne's Friary, who presided over the event
The ceremony began with the newly re-recorded KNS Anthem, which was inaugurated by Walter Nandalike. It preserved the original lyrics and melody while enhancing its sound quality.
In his welcome address, Floyd D’Mello Cascia, vice president of KNS, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants, parents, supporters, and dignitaries for their unwavering encouragement.
Special tokens of gratitude were presented to Stany Bela, Sanjay Rodrigues, Raina Sequeira, and their team for their commendable work on the KNS anthem’s re-recording.
Additionally, Remona Evette Pereira, a Golden Book of World Records awardee for her achievements in Bharatanatyam, was honoured for her outstanding contribution to the arts.
The panel of judges included Fr Alwyn Sequeira OCD, noted musician and editor of Uzwaad fortnightly; celebrated singer-composer Alwyn Noronha Bajpe; and acclaimed music director Roshan D’Souza Angelore, whose discerning evaluations lent depth and credibility to the competition.
In his inspiring address, Walter Nandalike emphasised the value of healthy competition and personal growth, urging participants to view both victory and defeat as opportunities to learn and improve. He encouraged young artistes to compete with themselves rather than with others and to pursue excellence with resilience and dedication.
Guest of honour Anil Lobo echoed these sentiments, praising KNS for its steadfast commitment to nurturing local talent. Presiding guest Fr Gerald Lobo expressed deep appreciation for the Sabha’s ongoing efforts to promote the Konkani language and cultural values through artistic initiatives such as this competition.
Pamela Santos, general secretary of KNS, delivered a warm vote of thanks, acknowledging the generous contributions of sponsors, volunteers, performers, and the audience.
Singing competition conveners Flavia Mascarenhas and Jossy Theodore were recognised for their exceptional coordination, while the seamless flow of the event was credited to the skilled compering of Maxim D’Souza Angelore. Jerome Moras, Assistant Secretary, and Ivan D’Silva, Treasurer, were also present on the dais.
The event enjoyed extensive media support from Daijiworld Media Pvt Ltd, the official media partner.
Smooth execution was ensured by KNS manager Gerald Concessao, with strong support from the KNS managing committee members, including Stany Bela and Keith Furtado, among others.
The striking stage décor was artistically crafted by Glanny D’Souza (Bajal Unit), while the technical brilliance came from Christopher Mascarenhas (Bendur Unit) and Deon Joshwin Pinto (Cascia Unit).
The grand finale not only marked the culmination of another remarkable season of music but also reaffirmed KNS’s enduring mission to celebrate, nurture, and elevate Konkani talent. Through sustained effort and vibrant community engagement, KNS continues to preserve and showcase the rich musical and cultural heritage of the Konkani people.