Mysuru: The Konkani Christian Association (KCA) of Mysuru celebrated Konkani Manyata Divas recently at Jagannatha Centre for Art and Culture (JCAC), Vijayanagar 2nd Stage, Mysuru.

Manyata Divas was inaugurated with the lighting of the lamp by chief guests Dr. M. Jagannath Shenoy, Managing Trustee of Mangalore Ganesh Beedi Works and Melwin Johnson Peris, a well-known Konkani Music Composer and Singer. They were accompanied by Valerian D’Souza (Vally Vogga), a writer and Konkani Sahitya Academy Awardee, John William D’Souza, President of KCA, Stany Lobo, Vice-President, Anil Saldanha, Treasurer, Joyce Sequeira, General Secretary, Sylvester D’Mello and Pramila Monis, Joint Secretaries.

John William D’Souza, in his Presidential address, briefed about Konkani language included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution on 20th August 1992 and highlighted the achievements of Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy.

Melwin Peris emphasised to uphold the values which bound the Konkani families. On the occasion, the Association feted multi-talented performer Peris for his expertise in Konkani Music and for enriching Konkani language among youths.

Dr. Jagannath Shenoy was also felicitated for his philanthropy towards the society.

The event concluded with the screening of the popular Konkani film ‘PAYANN’ (Journey) which tells the story of a struggling musician named Christopher Peris, who learns that true                                      harmony in life extends beyond musical mastery.

Stany Lobo welcomed the gathering. Anil Saldanha proposed a vote of thanks. Meena Dias, Vice-President, compered the programme. Konkani residents of Mysuru along with priests and nuns attended  the celebration.