Mangaluru:  A distinguished gathering of writers, poets and literary enthusiasts witnessed the release of ‘Vinchnar Kaaniyo‘ (Selected Stories), the latest collection by veteran Konkani writer Vally Vagga of Mysuru (Valerian D’Souza of Nirkan — Vagga, popularly known by his pen name). The event was held at the St. Aloysius Sahodaya auditorium in Mangaluru recently.

Speaking at the function, Melvyn Rodrigues, poet and convener of the Konkani Advisory Board of the Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi said, “When I began writing in Konkani, Vally Vagga was already active and even today he continues with remarkable consistency.”

“To us younger writers, he is not only an elder brother but also a unifier — someone who bridges differences among Konkani authors and strengthens relationships. His six decades of dedicated literary service deserve the highest respect,” he said.

Rodrigues further noted that accuracy, brevity, and conciseness are the ABC of storytelling, adding that these qualities shine through in Vally Vagga’s works.

H.M. Pernal, Sahitya Akademi Award-winning writer, who introduced the book, highlighted that since beginning his literary journey in 1964, Vally Vagga has written extensively in both Konkani and Kannada.

Pernal observed that the author’s stories consistently champion marginalised voices and affirm the value of life. He remarked that stories written across three decades — 1966, 1996 and 2026 — stand as a testimony to their timeless relevance.

The programme began with a welcome address by Libera D’Souza, followed by a vote of thanks from the author himself. His son, Loy D’Souza, was present. The event was compered by poet Titus Noronha.