Mangalore: Konkani Translation of Veerappa Moily's 'Tembare' Released

Pics: Brijesh Garodi
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (BG)

Mangalore, Nov 11: Dr M Veerappa Moily, union minster for petroleum and natural gas on Sunday November 11 released the book 'Tembare', a Konkani translation of Moily's book by the same name in Kannada.

The event, at World Konkani Centre, Shaktinagar was presided over by Basti Vaman Shenoy and the keynote address was delivered by Dr Narendra Rai Derla. The translator of the book, Ramesh Laad and the secretary of World Konkani Centre Venkatesh Baliga were also present on the dais.

In his keynote address on the book, Dr Narendra Rai said that 'Tembare' not only focuses on the external beauty of Tulu folk art, but also gives a deep insight into the inner pain and anguish of the people or a particular caste involved in that art for long years.

"For Shivaram Karanth, caste was a question, but for Moily, caste is an answer in the context of this novel," he added.

Addressing the gathering after the release of the book, Dr Veerappa Moily said that he had never see a visionary like Basti Vaman Shenoy. The visions of World Konkani Centre have been realized because of his hard work and dedication. Everyone should strive to emulate him," he said.

"None of us is a born litterateur or a politician or a rich person, but I have derived richeness from well-wishers like all of you gathered here. I am lucky to be born in this place, admist such great personalities of the coastal distict," he said.

"This centre has been doing immense work towards preserving Konkani culture and language. The centre itself has stood as a role model to other languages and academies.  The main reason for writing this book 'Tembare' is to show to the world the richness of our Tuluva culture and also to focus on the hidden pain of the ones who are really working hard to preserve it, even till today."

"The fragrance of the Tuluva culture and the boon of being born here has saved me from all troubles and tragedies at all times, even from the flight accident that occurred years ago. Even today there a few anti-social practices being followed in our surroundings, very important being discrimination against women. This has be stopped completely and uprooted by the next generation," he said.

"Many reforms have been carried out over the years. These, as well as the real pain of the true followers of culture are what the book focuses on. The book has received several awards including the Jnanpith, but the real award to me will be when everyone follows what I expressed through this book," he urged.

In his address, the translator, Ramesh Laad said that the book 'Tembare' will surely attract readers and culture lovers, especially in Goa. The book focuses on the rich cultural heritage and fragrance of the south.

Ramesh Laad was felicitated on the occasion. Bast Vaman Shenoy welcomed and Naresh R Kini proposed the vote of thanks.