Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Aug 26: "Some important developments have taken place as the Konkani language is recognized. The inclusion of Konkani language in the eighth schedule of the Indian constitution has given the opportunity for central and state governments as well as Konkani speaking people to make it prosper. Now opportunity is given to write UPSC (IPS/IAS etc) examinations in the Konkani language," said poet Melvyn Rodrigues, who has been honoured with the Sahitya Academy award.

Melvyn was speaking as the chief guest on the occasion of celebration of Konkani Manyata Divas that was held at the auditorium of St Joseph the Worker Church at Vamanjoor on Sunday, August 25. The programme was organised by the church in association with Sangati Vamanjoor.

Continuing his address to the gathering, Melvyn said, "Konkani language, which is one of the 22 national languages is used in various levels of government. People's representatives have the opportunity of using Konkani language for communication in legislature and parliaments, whereas the civilians can use them in the government department. Many opportunities are open now for the development of composing literature and translation. The work of education, higher education, employment for teachers in Konkani should take pace now. Various facilities that are given to the Konkani speaking people might be availed at a suitable time. However, love for Konkani should be nurtured in the heart first. Konkani programmes, artistes, literature and magazines have to be encouraged. Then only, Konkani language will
evolve and the recognition given in the eighth schedule of the Indian constitution will be effective."

Vice president of the church, Sunil Pinto, who presided over the function inserted the Konkani flag in the rice, which resembles the agricultural tradition and inaugurated the function. He read the message of Fr Cyprian Pinto, parish priest of the church, who could not attend the function due to unavoidable circumstances.

'Tapkate Phulan', a Konkani novel written by David D'Souza Vamanjoor and published by Srijan Prakashana was released by Melvyn Rodrigues on the occasion. Publisher Vitori Karkala gave the glimpses of the book. David and Melvyn were felicitated on the occasion.

Honorary guest and president of Mandd Sobhann Luvi Pinto and registrar of St Agnes College Charles Pais were present on the occasion.

Cyprian and Roshan sang a devotional song at the beginning of the programme. Rovita, Ankita and Sandhya did the welcome dance. Lawrence D'Souza welcomed the gathering and also gave the introductory speech. Roshan Menezes compered the programme and also rendered the vote of thanks.

The guests were given Kokum fruit plants as memento. At the end of the programme, the second drama of Kalakulotsav - 2019, written and directed by Arun Raj Rodrigues, 'Paying Guest' was presented to the audience by artistes of Kalakul.