Jnanpith Awardee Shri Damodar Mauzo Visits National PU College, Barkur

By Mrs. Ashwini Kanchan, Lecturer in English
Bellevision Media Network

Udupi/Barkur: The students and staff of National PU College, Barkur, were privileged to witness a rare and intellectually enriching event on Friday, 27th June 2025, as they warmly welcomed one of India’s most celebrated literary icons — Shri Damodar Mauzo, an eminent Konkani writer, Sahitya Academy Awardees (1983), and the distinguished recipient of the 57th Jnanpith Award (2022).

 

The literary gathering commenced at 10:00 AM in the college auditorium and was marked by a serene and graceful atmosphere. The event began with a soulful prayer session led by Ms Aishwarya Shetty and Ms Rakshitha, Lecturers in Physics and Sociology respectively, who rendered a melodious Sanskrit shloka, invoking divine blessings for the success of the day’s proceedings.

 

Mrs. Usha Kiran Shetty, Principal of the College, extended a warm and heartfelt welcome to the esteemed Chief Guest Shri Mauzo, and the Guest of Honour, Mr. Kishore Gonsalves — a renowned English professor and recipient of the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy Award for his acclaimed short story collection Rupnni. She also acknowledged the gracious presence of Mrs. Hemavathy P.S., Headmistress of the High School section, along with other dignitaries, faculty members, and students. All the guests were ceremoniously greeted with roses by members of the faculty, a gesture of respect and hospitality.

 

The day’s proceedings were ably anchored by Mrs. Ashwini Kanchan, Lecturer in English, who set the tone of the program. She invited Mrs. Soumya, Lecturer in Biology, to give a brief yet impactful introduction of Shri Damodar Mauzo, highlighting his rich literary journey, notable awards, and invaluable contributions to both Konkani literature and Indian literary culture at large.

In his inspiring and engaging address, Shri Mauzo captivated the audience with his simple yet profound words, speaking in lucid English to ensure clear connection with the largely rural student gathering. He stressed the importance of nurturing reading habits, creative writing skills, and critical thinking, encouraging students to “search the invisible and touch the non-existent.” His anecdotes, reflections, and real-life experiences as a writer deeply resonated with the audience, igniting a literary spark among the young learners.

 

As a mark of honour and gratitude, Shri Mauzo was felicitated by the college. A memento was presented, and he was draped with a traditional shawl by Mr. Archibald Furtado, Administrative Coordinator of National Group of Educational Institutions, Barkur. In his presidential address, Mr. Furtado proudly acknowledged Shri Mauzo’s multilingual command — fluent in Konkani, English, Hindi, Marathi, and with an understanding of Kannada. He remarked, “Today is a proud moment for all of us. A towering personality in literature visited this temple of learning and enlightened us with his inspiring and insightful message.”

 

The programme concluded with a gracious vote of thanks by Mrs. Vijayalakshmi, Lecturer in Commerce, who expressed sincere appreciation to all those who contributed to making the day meaningful and memorable.

 

Indeed, it was truly ‘A Day to Inspire, Interact & Celebrate Literature’ — a rare and cherished opportunity that left an indelible impression on all present. The entire faculty, staff, and student body participated with keen interest and enthusiasm, gaining a deeper appreciation for the richness of language, culture, and literary expression.