By News Karnataka
Copyright newskarnataka
Puttur: The Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy, in association with the GSB Mahila Mandali, Puttur, organised Konkani Rangataranga and Sahitya Sambhrama-3 at Sukratindra Kalamandira, Puttur, on Sunday, September 14.
Call to preserve Konkani at home
Presiding over the event, academy president Joachim Stany Alvares highlighted the efforts of the Academy to promote Konkani literature, art, and folklore. “The Karnataka government established the Konkani Sahitya Academy to promote literature, art, and folk culture. We are striving to reach people, create awareness of our role, and bring closer those who have contributed to these fields,” he said.
The event was inaugurated by Dr Ashok Prabhu, Dharma Darshi and manager of Shri Lakshmi Venkataraman Temple, who lit the traditional lamp. He stressed the importance of language conservation, remarking, “The usage of the Konkani language is declining in present times. We must start speaking Konkani at home itself. Only then can we preserve and develop the language.”
Guest insights and discussions
Dr Y Umanath Shenai, leader of the Kudala Deshastha Gowda Brahmin community, served as chief guest and spoke on the origins of Konkani, its history, and his research on the subject, while extending his best wishes for the event.
As part of the Sahitya Sambhrama segment, veteran Konkani musician Panduranga Nayak engaged in a conversation with artist Krishnananda Nayak of the Patanjali Yoga Shikshana Samiti. The interactive session shed light on Panduranga Nayak’s deep interest in music and his long journey in the field.
Cultural highlights and honours
The day’s programme also featured a food festival, handicrafts exhibition, and vibrant cultural performances. The highlight was a comedy play, Patto Nattille Rail, staged at the conclusion of the event, which entertained the audience.
Continuing its tradition of honouring writers every month, the Academy felicitated senior litterateur Ullas K Pai during the programme. Additionally, GSB Mahila Mandali honoured several talented individuals for their contributions in various fields.
Organisers and participation
The event was attended by Vidya M Bhat, president of GSB Mahila Mandali, along with academy members Samarth Bhat and Naveen Lobo. The proceedings were compered by Poornima Mallya, while Vidya Bhat delivered the vote of thanks.
With its mix of literary discussions, cultural showcases, and community honours, Konkani Rangataranga and Sahitya Sambhrama-3 reaffirmed the Academy’s role in promoting Konkani heritage and underscored the need to preserve the language for future generations.
