Report and pics by Rons Bantwal for Daijiworld News Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Sep 4: The Konkani Basha Mandal Maharashtra celebrated the 14th Konkani Day at Zaveribehn Popatlal hall, Ghatkopar (E) here, on Sunday September 3.

Ratnakar Gokharna, director, Shamrao Vittal Bank, was present as the chief guest. He honoured the talented students and students who secured high marks and said that the love of mother tongue is the essential ingredient of Indian culture.  “Konkani has a rich history and I wish that more and more people should make it a point to converse in Konkani whenever and wherever it is possible,” he added.

Antony Sequeira, working president, Arcadia Shares and Stocks Pvt Ltd., who was present as the chief guest, presented the A M Hattangady Special Award to Avonil D’Souza, Mangalore.

Fiola D’Souza  performed the welcome dance. P N Shanbaug, president, welcomed the gathering.

Noted Konkani writer William Fernandes and Sumanth Kelekar who passed away recently were paid rich homage on the occasion.

Lawrence D’Souza Kamani compered the programme.  Clement Lobo organized the cultural programme.

J B Moraes, working president, Leo Fernandes, treasurer and Joe D’Souza, were present on the stage. Joy Paladka, chief secretary, proposed the vote of thanks.

Victor Concessao and Kenny Zazarthe troupe presented a musical programme. Well-known comedians from Mangalore – Gerald Rasquinha, Joseph Pinto and Arthur D’Souza, entertained the gathering.