Daijiworld News Network - Mangalore (GA)

Mangalore, Feb 3: Noted Konkani actor and director Arun Raj Rodrigues has bagged the coveted "Artiste of the Year" award instituted by Thomas Stephens Konknni Kendr (TSKK) and Carvallo family of Goa.  The award includes a citation and cash prize of Rs 25,000.

Arun Raj Rodrigues has been in the forefront of Konkani theatre with his superb acting and directorial skills.  Currently he is the convener of "Mandd", the theatre group of Mandd Sobhann.

His memorable performance in the famous plays such as "Abramachem Yajnadaan", "Mamma Retire Jata", "Ward No 66", "Dakter Damianv" and "Judas" (said to be the first-ever solilloquy in Konkani) has been  highly appreciated by Konakni theatre buffs.

He has also directed two Konkani tele-serials for Konkani TV, "Dakter Damianv" and "Guspoddi Gustin".  Over the years he has also scripted and directed several street was well acclaimed.

The prestigious award will be presented at a function to be held prior to the 50th 'Moinealli Manchi' of Mandd Sobhann to be held on Sunday February 5 at 6 pm at the Norin and Ronald Mendonca open stage at Kalaangann here. The award will be presented by former speaker of the Goa assembly and secretary of the Viswa Konkanni Parishad Tomazinho Cardozo.

Voice of Goa troupe will present a programme named "Goencho Pormoll" as part of 50th 'Moinealli Manchi' monthly theatre programme of Mandd Sobhann.