Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 18: The Konkani Natak Sabha (KNS) hosted the 4th edition of the Voviyo Verse Competition at Don Bosco Hall, Mangaluru, on Sunday, August 17, as part of its annual cultural events. The competition was organized with the aim of preserving the rich tradition, art, and culture of the Konkani community.
The event commenced with the KNS anthem, followed by the traditional lighting of the lamp. The ceremony was led by KNS vice president Floyd D’Mello, general secretary Pamela Santos, assistant secretary Jerome Moras, treasurer Ivan D’Silva, and conveners Anil D’Cunha and Loy Rego, along with the panel of judges.
Vice president Floyd D’Mello Cascia delivered the welcome address, extending warm greetings to the guests, judges, participants, and attendees.
In his inspiring message to the participants, Floyd D’Mello said, “Just like in cricket, where 11 players form a team, a player not performing well on a given day does not mean he is a bad player—it simply was not his day. Similarly, every team that participated today is excellent in its own way. However, only three can be declared winners. Not winning does not mean you are not good; it only means the performance of other teams was slightly stronger. Never be disappointed—take every experience as a lesson and move forward. This competition is not just about winning but about showcasing the treasure of Konkani tradition and culture for future generations. I salute all the teams for participating and wish them great success.”
The distinguished panel of judges included renowned MC and actor Manu Bantwal, along with Irine Rebello and Sapna Crasta.
A total of eleven teams participated in the competition:
1. Parzalchim Taram – Prima Mezita Ferrao & Group, Belvai
2. Mercy Group – Nathalian Monteiro & Group, Manjeshwar
3. St Rita, Cascia – Irene Mendonca & Group, Cascia
4. Chinche Fulam – Lovina Lobo & Group, Bejai
5. Rang Tarang, Bidryam – Liza Flora Rodrigues & Group, Moodbidri
6. Mariashram Thalapady – Sandra D’Souza & Group, Talapady
7. Our Lady of Fatima – Bejoy Monteiro & Group, Miyapadav
8. Aprosa Surngar – Clara Sylvia Pinto & Group, Cordel
9. Team Vojem – Maxim D’Cunha & Group, Mogarnad
10. Wilma D’Souza & Group, Manjeshwar
11. Mothiyancho Ghos – Anusha Jessica Fernandes & Group, Vamanjoor
The smooth conduct of the event was overseen by KNS manager Gerald Concessao. tabulation of scores was carried out by Ivan D’Silva and Jerome Moras. The KNS Cordel unit, along with committee members, also provided valuable support, assisted by Keith Furtado, Raymond D’Cunha, and Joseph Theodore.
The stage decor was beautifully arranged by Glanny D’Souza (Bajal unit), while the technical aspects were handled by Christopher Mascarenhas (Bendur unit) and Deon Joshwin Pinto (Cascia unit).
The introduction of judges, compering, and announcement of results were managed by Loy Rego, while Anil D’Cunha delivered the vote of thanks.
Results of the Voviyo Verse Competition:
First Place: Mariashram Thalapady – Sandra D’Souza & Group, Talapady
Second Place: Aprosa Surngar – Clara Sylvia Pinto & Group, Cordel
Third Place (two winners): St. Rita, Cascia – Irene Mendonca & Group, Cascia and Rang Tarang, Bidryam - Liza Flora Rodrigues & Group, Moodbidri.
Upcoming KNS Competitions at Don Bosco Hall:
* Aug 31, 3:30 pm – 2nd Gumtam Gayan Competition
* Sept 14, 9:30 am – 61st Singing Competition (Grand Finale)
* Sept 28, 5:00 pm – Annual Day Celebration & Prize Distribution (featuring MickMax’s award-winning play Pati Polenaka)