Pics: Prashanth Thokkotu
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Apr 11: Konkani biblical-drama, "Somyachi Nimanim Baram Voram" was staged on Sunday, April 10, at Cordel Church ground in the city by the Konkani Natak Sabha (KNS).
Prior to the drama, a brief stage programme was held in which Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangaluru, Fr Cliford Fernandes, parish priest, Cordel Church, Fr Paul Melwyn D'Souza, president, KNS, Leo and Lavina Rodrigues, patrons of the show, Walter Nandalike, founder, Daijiworld Media Group, Liston D'Souza, vice president, KNS, Floyd D'Mello Cascia, secretary, KNS, Praveen Rodriguez, secretary assistant, KNS, Gerry Concessao, treasurer graced the dais.
Speaking on the occasion, Bishop Peter Paul said, "Based on the narration of the Bible, there are many plays and movies produced. Mel Gibson's movie 'Passion Of the Christ' is the known art form which visualised the life of Jesus Christ and his final hours. These types of efforts will help spread the gospel to the people.The words of Jesus are still valuable in our life and the visualization or recreation of his life will help us to be strong in our faith. On this occasion, I congratulate the entire KNS and the drama artistes for their commitment towards their faith and church. I wish them all the success in their future projects."
In his speech, Leo Rodrigues said " When the president of KNS approached me, I was attracted towards the project only because of the understanding that it comes under the proclamation of gospel. KNS had a motive to recreate the final hours of Jesus in front of the audience. These types of efforts should always be encouraged and appreciated."
Appreciating KNS, Walter Nandalike said, "Due to Covid restrictions during the past three years, the entertainment industry has completely collapsed. There was a fear of losing the crowd for shows. But today KNS gave a good start to the entertainment industry. They succeeded in bringing more than 5, 000 audiences and it will be a new boost to drama and other art forms."
In his short note, Fr Clifford Fernandes explained about the Cordel Church and its history. He also welcomed people to the parish to know its rich religious history and miracles.
Fr Paul Melwyn D'Souza narrated the history of KNS and its activities. Gerry Concessao proposed a vote of thanks. Liston D'Souza welcomed the dignitories and gathering. Floyd D'Mello Cascia compered the event.
Immediately after the stage programme, the play "Somyachi Nimani Baram Voram" was staged. The drama is directed by senior artiste and known play director Dolla Mangaluru . Sangeeth Guru fame Joel Pereira has penned the dialogues and songs for the drama. He has effectively blended the two-and-half hour play with his music. Claude D’Souza Bendur, Clarence Pinto Padil, Jerome Moras and Melwyn D’Almeida Valencia were the co-directors of the drama.
More than 100 artistes took part in the drama while more than 100 technicians and support staff worked behind the stage for the success of the event. More than 5,000 people witnessed the drama which was very engaging with the troupe's acting, lighting and well designed costumes.