Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje 

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (SB) 

Mangaluru, Jul 21: Renowned Konkani writer, journalist and activist Dr Austin D’Souza Prabhu, was presented with 8th late Victor Rodrigues Memorial Konkani Literature Award at Infant Jesus convention Hall, Bikarnakatte on Sunday, July 21. 

The annual award was instituted by Celine Rodrigues in memory of her husband late Victor Rodrigues, well known Konkani litterateur under the auspices of Samanvaya in 2011. 

During the award conferring ceremony Dr Austin D’Souza Prabhu was honoured with cash award of Rs. 10,000, citation, memento and shawl. 

Fr Ronald Serrao, Rector, Jeppu Seminary presided the event. Fr Pius Fidelis Pinto, Managing Director, Samanvaya, Fr Ronald Cutinho, Director, Samanvaya and Celine Rodrigues were present on the dais. 

After receiving the award Dr Austin said “I never wanted any award or appreciation for my services. As a son of Konkani soil, I am doing my duty and trying to serve my mother tongue. In childhood itself I was attracted towards the Konkani literature, and art. Wherever I went, I tried to bring the Konkani people together. Many supported me in my work. I thank them all, especially my wife and children. They did not interfere in my Konkani service, but instead appreciated me for doing it,”

“After retirement I had some confusion about my daily activities which would keep me energetic. Once I got an idea about starting a Konkani weekly and then decided to execute it. I named it as ‘Veez Konkani’ and to make it available in the internet. ‘Veez Konkani’ has become very popular in Konkani world. It contains more than hundred pages and publishes a detailed article on an achiever in the Konkani world. Every work of this weekly is handled by me alone. It is pleasure to serve my mother tongue in this unique way,” Austin added. 

“I thank Celine Rodrigues and Samanvaya for honouring me. This award will give me more energy for my upcoming Konkani work.” Austin concluded. 

In his presidential address, Fr Ronald Serrao said, “Late Victor Rodrigues was one of the great writers of Konkani world. In his time, he dominated the entire Konkan region with his novels and other literary works. There is no death for literature and achievements. Victor Rodrigues still lives with us with his achievements. Dr Austin D Souza Prabhu is a true soldier of Konkani. When he was in his native, he did a lot for his mother tongue. For earning his daily bread, he reached United States of America and there too he loved Konkani. Being a good leader, he achieved many milestones in life and brought a good name for Mangalurean community. I congratulate him and wish him all success in his future projects.'' 

“Canaranth Padrovado Ani Propaganda Vivad” a book written by Fr Pius Fidelis Pinto was released during the event. 

Fr Ronald Cutinho welcomed the dignitaries and gathering. CGS Taccode, read the citation. Senior writer Dolphy Cascia compered the event.