Mangalore : Dr. Ashok Pai, the internationally acclaimed psychiatrist, launched the Global Konkani Organization ceremony organized as a part of the World Konkani Day celebrations held at the IT Auditorium of St. Aloysius College Mangalore on Aug 20 Saturday.

Speaking on the occasion, he said that Mandd Sobhann is being doing a good work by holing World Konkani Cultural Convention, proving that language transcends all boundaries.

Eminent Kannada film director and lyricist Hamsalekha was the chief guest of the event. In his address, he said that Konkani needs to be respected since it has received place in Indian Constitution.

He also said that he is willing to sing for a Konkani movie in future.

 The office bearers of the newly launched organization are Tomazinho Cardozo of Goa (president), K. K. Uthara of Kerala (vice president for India), Pascal Pinto of Kuwait (vice president for the Gulf), Rene Beretto of UK (vice president for other countries), Eric Ozario of Mangalore (general secretary), Lawrence D’Souza of Mumbai (associate secretary), Roy Castelino of Mangalore (treasurer), and Ancy D’Souza of Mumbai (PRO).

The members of the executive committee are Canute Menezes of Mumbai, Edwin J. F. D’Souza, Sindhudurg, Ramanand Raikar of Goa, Michael Gracias of Goa, Thomas C. Fernandes of Goa, Premananda Lotlikar of Goa, M. S. Kamath of Bangalore, Vasanth Banderkar of Karwar, Valerian D’Souza of Mysore, Vijayan Kerala, Vincent Menezes of Delhi, Sidhanath Buyao of Goa, Vasudev Shanbhag of Sirsi, Richard Moras of Bahrain, Arun D’Souza of Palimar, Dr. Austin Prabhu of USA, Ronald Fernandes of Canada, James Mendonca of Dubai, Stanley Fernandes of Oman, Stanley D’Cruz of Australia, and Johnson D’Souza of Israel.

A cultural programme featuring a Kudmi dance by Mandarthi troupe, music by Mother Theresa Brass Band of Honnavar, Konkani dance performances by Naach Sobhann, a skit by Kalaakul Theatre, and others formed the highlight of the event.