Kinnigoli: “Konkani Language” a symbol of national unity

By Pundalika Marathe
Bellevision Media Network

Kinnigoli, 07 August 2011: Konkani language is one of the recognised languages in India and is also the mother tongue of Hindus, Muslims and Christians of the coastal areas from Cochin in Kerala up to South Kenara, Udupi, North Kenara and Goa. It has history, culture and has distinctive varieties. Konkani language is a symbol of national unity, said B. Pundalika Marathe - Member of Karnataka Konkani Sahithya Academy and also Journalist.

 

 

  
 
He was speaking in his presidential address in the inaugural function of the “Konkani Vovyo ani Versa” training workshop at Kirem Church 200 years anniversary Hall in Thamaskatte near Kinnigoli. The training workshop was jointly conducted by; Karnataka Konkani Sahithya Academy, Matov Mangalore, Catholic Sabha and Jyothi Sthree Sangatane Kirem.
 
There are 42 communities with Konkani as their mother tongue. Every community has its own heritage culture and folklore varieties in Konkani. Government of Karnataka provides all necessary grants through Konkani Academy and encourages to preserve and maintain it and all the Konkans should make use of this opportunity, said Pundalika Marathe.

 

 

 

 

Rev. Fr. Paul Pinto – Parish Priest of Kirem Church inaugurated the program by lighting the lamp. Upon inauguration in his speech he said that, The traditions which were systematically in practice have been diminishing. The Vovyo and Versa which were being sung in wedding functions are no more in practice with the new generations. With the noise of the orchestra in the marriage functions in the halls these are being brushed aside. The efforts to preserve and maintain these has to be done on regular basis, he said.
 
James D’Souza – Correspondent of Matov Mangalore in his introductory note briefed on the significance of the workshop. Guests and dignitaries present on the dias were; Philomena Sequeira – Member of Kinnigoli Grama Panchayath and also the resource person, Robert Rodrigues – Vice President of Parish Pastoral Council, Richard Saldanha – President of Catholic Sabha, Flavia Suvares – President of Jyothi Sthree Sandhatan, Chetan Arun D’Souza and Eric Pais – President of Kinnigoli Varado.
 
Also present on the occasion were; Valerian Sequeira, Lawrence Fernandes and Lydia D’Souza. Sewrine Lobo – Secretary welcomed the guests and the gathering. Sunita Rodrigues compeered the program. Sr. Richard from Sthree Sanghatane proposed vote of thanks.