Mangaluru : Konkani Lokotsav 2017, a three-day festival of Konkani language and culture,  jointly organised by the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy and Kannada and culture department was inaugurated at Town Hall here on Friday February 10.

Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) mayor inaugurated Konkani Lokotsav 2017, by playing and the ‘Gumatt’ Konkani traditional drum.

In his inaugural address Harinath stressed on the services rendered by the Konkani people. ‘The Konkani native speakers, even when they are pushed to corner are capable of giving their best and therefore heave played a very important role in the progression of India’ he said.

Roy Castelino, President Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy in his welcome address proposed that the Konkani people are given a platform to openly and strongly declare themselves as belonging to the one and only Konkani identity. He asked the all gathered to shout out ‘Jai Konkani’ with all pride and prestige.

Pradeep Kumar Kalkura, President Dakshina Kannada unit of Kannada Sahitya Parishat released two books, ‘Sutkaye Zujant Sthriyo’ by Smt. Gladis Quadros Permude and ‘Aaj Taka-Phalyan Thuka’ by Smt. Catherine Rodrigues Katpadi. He spoke of the success of Konkani people in facing challenges put up by the Globalization and the inflow of strong pro English move. When a political leader, Religious head or an officer of high rank uses Konkani it creates an atmosphere of self respect and pride among the native speakers.

Msgr Denis Prabhu, Vicar General of the Diocese of Mangalore said that ‘Konkani is in no way less than the heavenly language to her beloved children. The native speakers of Konkani have protected and preserved their linguistic identity and it is very sure that they will continue to keep us their mother tongue richness. All minds will be happy and joyful when Konkani speakers belonging to various backgrounds like Kharvi, Kudmi, Navayati, Siddi, Saraswat or Christian background join together and share their views in their mother tongue.

Commissioner of Police Shri M Chandrashekar I P S in his address stressed on the nature of Konkani people. He said that due to the kindness and sweet mildness of these people they have always won the hearts of the millions. Though divided geographically they could achieve the emotional unity with all rich diversity because of the positive spirit of mind they possess. In the present day scenario where hatred and tension is ruling large the Konkani spirit of acceptance and regard is very much needed’ he said, During the occasion the members of the Academy were felicitated. Shri Venkatesh Baliga proposed the vote of thanks. Smt Irene Rebello and Shri M R Kamath compered the programme.

The three days bonanza of Konkani language, literature, heritage and culture was given a meaningful start with the band and dance troops performing in the stage put up in front of the Town Hall. Mother Theresa band from Honnavar was the first to showcase its rich musical talents. Siddi Daff dance group from Haliyal, Siddi Dammam group from Mundgod, Pugudi Dance group from Yellapur and the Zakai Dance troop from Sirsi presented their colourful dances which won the hearts of thousands.

 Rt Rev Msgr Denis Prabhu, Vicar General of the diocese of Mangalore with other dignitaries  inaugurated the Lokotsava Stalls put up in the ‘Matov’ of Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Akademy in front of the Town Hall.

The stage programme was given a very beautiful kick start by the hundred more singers led by  Eric Ozario of Mandd Sobhann fame and renowned singer Smt Vasanti R Nayak singing the theme song of the ‘Lokotsav’ and other relevant songs. Shwetha Kamath and team presented the heart winning welcome dance.