Report and pics by Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai (SP)

Mumbai, Jun 23: The annual 'Pintam Konkan Kalakaar Mumbai' awards being conferred on artistes with distinguished contributions, were awarded for the years 2006 and 2007 at a function held here on Sunday, June 22.

The awards are being given in the name of gifted Konkani theatre actor Valerian Pinto, popularly known as 'Pintam Derebail' who is no more now. The 'Abhinay Master' award was conferred on theatre artiste Alphonse Crasta for the year 2006 while the award 'Pratibhanvit Kalakar' for 2007 was given to music director  Benjamin Miranda.

At the award distribution ceremony organised at the St Antony High school hall in Sakinaka here, Konkan Kalakaar founder, dramatist Sunny D'Souza, who was the chief guest, handed over the award to Alphonse. Veteran musician Henry D'Souza, known widely as 'Sangeet Samraat' who was also present, handed over the award to Benjamin.

Municipal officer P L Lopez, 'Divo' weekly editor Lawrence Coelho, St Antony Church assistant priest Fr Savio D'Souza, enterpreneur Brian Rego, Victor Concesso and others were present.They handed over mementoes to the children who underwent Kalakar training.

Children who were trained by the Konkan Kalakaar, presented an entertainment programmes, followed by 'Konkani Musical Evening' programme by Victor Concesso, Charles D'Cunha and Antony Tavro and group.

Welcome song was sung by the children of the Kalakaar group. Kalakaar president John Sequeira welcomed and introduced the guests. Joachim Serrao explained the working and programmes of the organisation. Irene D'Souza and Anita Machado introduced the awardees. Secretary Linette Nazareth and Karen Sanctis presened the programme. Clement D'Souza Mandantyar proposed vote of thanks.