Report: Gordon D’Almeida

Pics: Shivaprasad Yeyyadi 

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (SB)

Mangaluru, Aug 25: “The concept of pure language does not suit the modern world, as every individual today is open to multiple languages. The younger generation, influenced by diverse cultures and communities, naturally blends languages in their daily communication,” said noted Konkani writer, social thinker, and journalist Stany Bela.

He was addressing the Konkani Manyata Divas held at St Vincent Ferrer Church, Valencia, on Sunday, August 24.

Bela observed that many youngsters hesitate to speak or perform in Konkani because of the rigid notion of “purity in language.” He said, “The invisible idea of standardization in Konkani holds them back. Just as a river changes its course, language evolves with new slang and meanings. No one can claim their dialect is pure and others inferior. By embracing new words, pronunciations, and dialects, we become more open-minded. Imposing rigid formulas only makes a language stagnant.”

Highlighting the richness and literary legacy of Konkani, especially in poetry, Bela stressed the need for the younger generation to learn and practice the language. Without active use, he warned, Konkani risks fading into obscurity. He concluded by extending wishes to the community on the occasion of Konkani Day.

The celebrations began at 5:30 pm in the Golden Jubilee Hall. Parish priest Fr Roque D’Sa presided over the event, joined by assistant parish priest Fr Pradeep Rodrigues, parish council vice president Ronald Rodrigues, secretary Rita Menezes, and 21 Commissions coordinator Steevan Rodrigues.

In his presidential address, Fr Roque D’Sa emphasized pride in Konkani identity, urging everyone to speak and read the language regularly to keep it alive. He praised the organizers for their two months of preparation and thanked gurkars, ward representatives, and zone coordinators for leading the cultural performances.

Fr Pradeep Rodrigues, in his welcome address, recalled a popular song by Wilfy Rebimbus and said, “Wherever we go, we should carry our mother tongue with pride. Konkani Manyata Divas reminds us of the fighters who secured Konkani’s place in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution, and of the stalwarts who preserved our culture and heritage.”

As part of the program, Walter and Jacintha Mascarenhas were honoured for their generous financial contributions to the development of the church, a gesture warmly appreciated by the parish community.

The cultural segment featured vibrant performances from different parish zones, showcasing unity and enthusiasm. The evening concluded with a traditional Mangalorean dinner, enjoyed by nearly 1,400 parishioners.

Steevan Rodrigues delivered the vote of thanks, and the event was gracefully compered by Belinda Rodrigues.