Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SB)
Pics: Donald Pereira Beltangady

Mangaluru, Feb 23: "The periodicals that are published from parishes are like a nursery for writers. These periodicals not only share information about happenings in their churches but also become a platform for budding writers. Editors of these periodicals should therefore be more active guiding them," said Fr Francis Assisi, director of Sandesha Foundation for Culture and Education.

He was speaking at the inaugural of a conference of editors and writers of Konkani periodicals published by parishes that was held at Sandesha conference hall here on Sunday, February 23.

"Every writer has his/her own taste and interest. In our society we can see specialized writers in law, art, social service, philosophy and other fields. But it is difficult for a writer to write articles on all subjects. The habit of reading and assimilating knowledge from related sources makes us good writers. At the same time, it is wrong to write an article on a subject without proper knowledge or homework. Editors need to give clarity and guidance on this to budding writers," he added

In his presidential address, Rolphie D'Costa, president, Catholic Sabha Mangaluru Pradesh, and publisher of 'Amcho Sandesh' said, "Periodicals that are published by parishes and deaneries make a major contribution towards enrichment of Konkani language and culture. Many of the noted Konkani writers grew from these periodicals. Hence we can say that editors of these periodicals are the primary teachers of the writers. Nowadays the habit of reading and writing has declined. People are addicted to gadgets and digital platforms. This is the time for editors to think about bringing people back to the habit of reading. They should take it as a challenge."

Konkani activist Richie Moras, founder of Konkani Writers Forum, Karnataka, Dolphie Cassia, senior writer and former editor of 'Jelho' monthly Dr Edward Nazreth were present.

After the inaugural the symposium was held. Lavi Ganjimatt, award winning writer spoke on write short stories. Dr Jerry Niddodi, Known writer gave talk on write report and articles for periodicals. Macha Milar , Editor, writer was the moderator.

Dolphie Cassia, welcomed the dignitaries and gathering. CJS Taccode rendered vote of thanks. Irene Rebello, compared the event.

The conference organized by Sandesha Prathishtan , Konkani writers forum , Karnataka and Amcho Sandesh, Konkani Monthly. Editors and writers from various periodicals from Mangaluru diocese were present in large numbers.