Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Jul 1: ‘Gramaloka’, a cultural programme jointly organised by Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, and Manglurchi Motiyam Cultural Organisation, was held at Lobo Motors premises on Belthangadi Pradhan Road at 4:30 pm on Sunday, June 30.
The event was inaugurated by Fr Walter D’Mello, principal priest of Belthangady Dharmakshetra, who emphasised the cultural significance of the Konkani language. He underscored Konkani’s rich heritage in folklore and literature, urging senior writers and artists to preserve its uniqueness by guarding against foreign influences.
Melvin Rodrigues, head of the Konkani division at Central Sahitya Akademi, gave an introductory speech detailing the Sahitya Akademi’s programmes and welcomed the guests.
The programme featured local poets such as Robert D’Souza Madantyar, Flavia Albuquerque from Puttur, and Thelma Madta from Madantyar, who recited poems. Vidya Nayak from Guruvayanakere presented Konkani shishu songs, providing insights into their background and contemporary relevance. Apollin D’Souza and her team delighted the audience with melodious Konkani jogula songs, while Ronald Lobo, Ronald D’Souza, and Arvin D’Souza entertained with Konkani songs.
Stani Bela, a member of the Central Sahitya Academy’s Konkani advisory committee, moderated the programme. Alphonse Mendonsa expressed gratitude on behalf of the Manglurchi Motiyam organisation in his vote of thanks.
In his inaugural message, Fr D’Mello said, “Konkani language is a language of diversity and inclusive love. Unique folklore and quality literary heritage have been a legacy of Konkani language. Apart from continuing the Konkani heritage, it is also our responsibility to protect the uniqueness of Konkani language by preventing the infiltration of foreign sounds. In this regard, senior Konkani writers and artists should raise awareness. ‘There should be constructive work,’ he called.
The programme celebrated Konkani language and culture through poetry, songs, and cultural insights, reinforcing its importance and fostering community engagement in literary and cultural preservation.
