Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Jan 20: Konkani Bhasha Mandal Maharashtra (KBMM) organised Kaviraj J B Sequiera Memorial Kavi Sammelan and Kavita Competition on January 19 at Asha Kiran, St Pius Complex, Goregaon East, Mumbai.

John Dsilva, president KBMM in his welcome speech remembered Kaviraj Late J B Sequiera and his remarkable contribution to Konkani Literature.

Lawrence Dsouza, Kamani briefed about the event. Walter Dsouza Jerimery, president Maharashtra Konkan Association and Benedicta Rebello, director of Maharashtra Konkan Association also graced the dais alongwith P N.Shanbhag ex president of KBMM. Francis Olivera Padukone, compered the event very beautifully.

During the Kavita competition nine Mumbai based poets Jerald Dsouza, Oliver Dsouza, Hilary Dsilva (Prasann Niddodi), Cyril Castelino, Pascal Lobo and Mary B Pinto, Helen Godinho, Irene Taccode, Rita Albuquerque took part with their new creations. It was tough time for judges to decide the best three out of nine.

KBMM has a Fixed Deposit (Donated voluntarily from members) in Bank of Rs 1 Lac in the name of Late J B Sequiera Memorial Fund towards rewarding best three poems every year.

This year the best Kavita won by  Helen Godinho,  Irene Taccode and Cyril Castelino respectively of Rs. 3000/-, 2000/- and 1000/- from the interest generated.

After the tea break a Kavi sammelan was organised and five poets Jeral Dsouza, Pascal Lobo, Victor Concessao, Rita Albuquerque, Helen Godinho participated. Cyril Castelino chaired the Sammelan and summarized the event beautifully.

Lawrence Dsouza Kamani proposed vote of thanks, Francis Olivera, Padukone and Cyril Castelino compered the entire programme.