Mangalore: Vishwa Konkani Awards were presented to noted Konkani writers Pundalik N Naik, novelist and playwright and Uday L Bhembre at a function at TV Raman Pai Hall in Mangalore on December 12, Wednesday, under the aegis of the Konkani Language and Cultural Foundation. The function was organized on the occasion of the 80th birthday of Vimala V Pai.

Prof Mallepuram, Vice Chancellor of  Karnataka Sanskrit University conferred the awards which comprised a cash prize of Rs one lakh, a memento and a citation.

Speaking after receiving the award, Pundalik Naik said he was immensely pleased to receive the coveted award. Uday L Bhembre said every Konkani speaking person had a role to play in promoting Konkani art literature and culture.

Vimala V Pai was felicitated on the occasion. Among others present were Pradeep Pai, Venkatesh Baliga, Guru Baliga, Ramdas Kamath, Melwyn Rodrigues and Dr Geetha Shenoy.