Mysore/Mysuru: Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, in collaboration with the Konkani Christian Association (KCA), Mysuru, had organised ‘Kathasandhi’ event with Konkani writer Vally Vagga (Valerian D’Souza) on Sunday at the Konkan Bhavan in Vijayanagar 2nd Stage here.

The programme began with Rev. Fr. Rovel D’Souza, Director, Dhyana Sadhana, conducting the Konkani Mass at 8.30 am followed by a public function at 10 am, which was jointly inaugurated by the dignitaries — Melvin Rodrigues, Member of the Executive Council, Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, Vally Vagga, eminent story writer and poet, John William D’Souza, President of KCA, Joyce Sequeira, General Secretary and Anil Saldanha, Treasurer.

Speaking on the occasion, Melvin Rodrigues gave a brief history of the Sahitya Akademi and lauded the KCA for organising such an event. He also commended Vally Vagga in enriching the Konkani culture through his writing.

During the event, Vally Vagga presented one of his best stories to the audience and the course of his life as a writer and poet. He said that as he was a voracious reader, it was very easy for him to write short stories and poems.

On the occasion, KCA honoured Vally Vagga with Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contribution to the society. A recipient of many prestigious awards like Karnataka Rajyotsava Award and Daiji World Award, Vagga has served KCA as Joint Secretary for two years and President for 6 years. He is also the Founder-Director of ‘Konkan Pathina Sahakara Sangha’, Mysuru.

Later, a cultural programme was presented by the specially-abled children from Mercy Convent, Srirampura and Sairanga Vidya Samsthe, Bannimantap, which enthralled the gathering with graceful dances, pyramid formations and mime show. As a social gesture, a cheque for Rs. 50,000 each was presented to the Institutions for the betterment of the students. This was followed by melodious Konkani songs by the Committee members.

John William D’Souza gave the introductory speech. Joyce Sequeira welcomed the gathering. Meena Dais, Vice-President, proposed the vote of thanks. Vincent D’Souza compered. H.M. Pernal, Shrividya Kamath, Stany Bella, Members of the Konkani Sahitya Advisory Board and Alphonse D’Souza, Konkani writer were present.