News and pics: Rons Bantwal

Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai (EP)

Mumbai, Mar 22: “The Konkani language is conducive to relationships. Several communities have accepted it as their native langauge. It has its own glory and it is our duty to promote it,” said Vishwa Konkani Kendra Mangaluru president, Konkani Sardar Basti Vaman Shenoy.

He was addressing Konkani Mano Milan programme held by Akhila Bharatiya Konkani Parishad and Maharashtra Konkani Association at St Jude school auditorium, Jerimeri, Kurla west on Sunday evening March 20.

Konkani Parishad president Gokuladas Prabhu, Jnaneshwara Chari, Anantha Ammambela, Venkatesh Shenoy, Konkani Bhasha Mandal Mumbai president John D'Silva, Konkan Association former president Walter D'Souza, president Benedicta B Rebello and others were present on the dais.

Jerry Bondel and Lancy Niddodi sang a welcome song. Konkani Parishad vice president Dr Chandrashekar N Shenoy welcomed the gathered. Maharashtra Konkan Association founder president Leo Fernandes gave the keynote address.

The poetic conference was presided by Ron Michael. Valerian Quadros, Philomena Sanfransisco, Cyril Castelino, Mary B Pinto, Rita Albuquerque, Helen Gudinho, Philip D'Souza, Ashok Dais Byndoor, Neri
Nazreth, Pascal Lobo, Victor Concessao, John D'Silva, Venkatesh Shenoy and Leo Fernandes participated and presented their poems.

Ashok Dais, Konkani Vasai Balaga, Jerimeri Konkani women's group and Andheri Mahakali Konkani group presented dances and skits. Philomena Sanfransisco interviewed Lalitha Bailooru and Janavi Balavalli.
Master Levin Fernandes and Leron Fernandes presented Konkani songs.

Ancy Cordeiro presented a cultural programme. Honorary chief secretary Cyril Castelino introduced the guests, compered the hall programme and proposed the vote of thanks.