Pics: Ramesh Pandith
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Mar 16: The inaugural function of the platinum jubilee of Konkani Natak Sabha (KNS) was held at Don Bosco hall on Thursday, March 15.
Fr Alwyn Serrao, principal, Padua College of Commerce and Business Management unveiled the jubilee year logo. Fr Paul Melwyn D’Souza, president, KNS, Mabel Kent, senior drama actress, Dolphy Saldanha, senior drama actor, Bro Victor Crasta, assistant director, Sandesha, Sunil Menezes, vice-president, Judith D’Souza, secretary, Jerald Concessao, treasurer were present.
Speaking on the subject 'Konkani drama - past, present and future’, Fr Alwyn said, "Drama is a copy of real life. It reflects our life and the happenings in our surroundings. Konkani drama world does not have a history of thousand years. According to details available with Konkani Sahitya Academy, Konkani dramas exist from 100 years. In the beginning, Konkani dramas were original. But after 1950, many writers wrote original dramas and they were presented with the help of various drama troupes. KNS started a revolution in Konkani drama field. Writers were influenced by both religious and social issues. So these dramas attracted large audiences.
“When Tulu drama world adopted a new style of presentation which is mainly concentrattion on single screen, lighting effects, less story and package of fun, some Konkani dramatists and teams also adopted the same style and people accepted it. In the recent days, we have seen modern dramas in Konkani. We have a few teams and artistes who have earned a tremendous name in modern theatre.
“But the saddening part of Konkani drama world is that it is facing a crisis in audience. People are not interested to watch dramas. So it is time for drama writers, directors and artistes to think on this issue seriously. They should try to know the pulse of the current audience. They should try to innovate and bring technical changes which can attract new audience,” he said.
Sharing her experience in dramas, Mabel Kent said, “'Chukon Gelli Sheli' was my first drama. I have acted in hundreds of dramas here since then. Konkani dramas gave me name and fame. Today, I am happy to attend this event, because I have always considered KNS as my soul mate. It is my request to all artistes and Konkani drama members, you all should create history through KNS.”
Fr Melwyn said, "After KNS came into existence, it has continuously worked for Konkani drama. Besides drama, it has also conducted many Konkani cultural programmes especially on poetry and music which has support our talents. And due to this, many of our artistes and singers have made name worldwide.
“We cannot separate KNS and Don Bosco hall. Both have worked for the cultural development of Konkani. We have a dream of building a new Don Bosco hall and hope to realise it within two years with help from generous people. It is our responsibility to provide a platform for our future generation,” he said.
Dolphy Saldanha presented a brief history of KNS.
Sunil Menezes welcomed the dignitaries and gathering. Floyd D’Mello compered the programme.