Mangalore: “Tsunami Simon” Konkani novel written by Goan writer Damodar Mauzo in 150 pages was chosen for Vimala Pai Viahwa Konkani Literary award of Rs 1 lakh and writer Mauzo came down to T.V.Raman Pai Hall on Thursday evening form Goa, to receive it at the hands of Vimala V. Pai, the donor.

Pradhan Gurudatt of Bangalore was present to honour the recipient with a shawl and citation.

The novel relates to Boatmen(Kharvi) and their struggle to survive, between a traditional fishing life and modern ways of fishing.

Presenting the award, Pradhan indicated that awards recognise writers and help the growth of forms of literature in any language. What English language has done to its literature, Konkani has to do to reach a global level.

He lauded Konkani-speaking communities on their multifarious achievements in diverse fields in life. Pradhan admitted that there was no other book on Tsunami, than in Konkani.

Mauzo replied to the felicitations. T.V. Mohandas Pai instituted the award in his mother’s name and spoke on the occasion.

Basti V. Shenoy welcomed the gathering V. Baliga thanked. Sandhaya Pai released the award book. There was a dialogue session by writers of several languages, on common literature.