Mysore/Mysuru: The Konkani Christian Association (KCA) of Mysuru recently celebrated Konkani Manyata Divas recognising the Konkani language included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution on Aug. 20, 1992 and Family Day at the Konkan Bhavan in Vijayanagar 2nd Stage, Mysuru.

The programme began with Konkani Holy Mass at 8.30 am. The principal celebrant was Rev. Fr. Wilfred Rodrigues of Pushpashram concelebrated with two priests Fr. Merwin Noronha and Fr. Nicholas D’Souza, followed by a public function.

Family Day was inaugurated by Association President John William D’Souza along with a few tiny-tots by aiming the basket. Several games for different age groups and couples were conducted by the Konkani teachers and Vice-Presidents Meena Dias and Stany Lobo.

In the afternoon, Manyata Divas was inaugurated with the lighting of the lamp by well-known Konkani and Kannada Writer Vally Vagga (Valerian D’Souza), a recipient of Rajyotsava Award. He was accompanied by President of Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy Joachim Stany Alvares, who was the chief guest.

Speaking about the history of Konkani language and the need to enrich and uphold its tradition and culture, Joachim Stany Alvares appreciated the contribution of KCA in community involvement and serving the society in different ways.

Association General Secretary Joyce Sequeira announced monetary support of Rs. 25,000 to Little Sisters of the Poor, Gandhinagar. Similarly, two more beneficiaries suffering from prolonged illness received Rs.25,000 each as medical assistance. 

On the occasion, KCA honoured special guest Stany Alvares and 30 past office-bearers who had rendered selfless service to the Association. This programme was assisted by Sylvester D’Mello.

A special stall was arranged for the sale of Konkani story books and traditional food delicacies. The celebration concluded with the distribution of prizes by the chief guest.

John William D’Souza, President of KCA, welcomed the gathering. Anil Saldanha, Treasurer, proposed a vote of thanks.  Meena Dias, Vice-President, compered the programme.

Konkani residents of Mysuru and Chamarajanagar districts attended the celebration.