Mangalore, Nov 4: More than 130 Konkanni writers and editors of Konkanni journals interacted together in Konkanni Writers’ Convention organized by ‘Raknno’ Konkanni Weekly on the November 3 at Bishop’s House, Mangalore on the occasion of its Platinum Jubilee celebrations of Raknno.
Rev. Msgr Denis Prabhu, the Vicar General of the Diocese of Mangalore inaugurated the Convention and released the Konkanni book ‘Chiknni Mothiya’ (Littlle Pearls) of William Kumar Kinnigoli published by Kalasagar Publications of Navin Kulshekar.
“Writing skills is a gift of God which has to be used for the growth of humanity and betterment of the society. Many have used this gift through Raknno,” Msgr Denis Prabhu said in his presidential address.”
He further said that Raknno has enriched the Konkanni language. Let us use our talent of writing and let us share our knowledge.
The convention included informatory and open discussion sessions on the role and responsibility of editors, feature articles, being a good reader and letters to the editor. Editors of different Konkani Journals and writers from South Canara and neighbouring districts participated in the convention. The exhibition of books and magazines was held during the convention.
Well known Konkanni writers and linguists Melwin Pinto, Dolphi Cascia, J.F. D’Souza Attavar and Eddie Netto were the resource persons. Vally Vagga, renowned Konkanni writer from Mysore led discussions and dialogue session.Well known writer Fr Maxim Rosario (Majar Kuppepadavu) the local organizer welcomed the gathering.
Writers Ancy Paladka, Wilma Bantwal, Dolphy Saldanha, Irene Castelino and Vincy Pinto introduced the resource persons. While Fr Francis Rodrigues the Raknno Editor gave the introductory note Cyril G. Sequeira the Convenor of Raknno Platinum Jubilee celebrations proposed vote of thanks. Vithori Karkal compeered the programme.
The Platinum Jubilee year of Raknno (1938-2013) was launched in December 2012 and will have a jubilant valedictory on December 15, 2013. During the jubilee year, Raknno has organized literary meetings, media awareness programmes, publication of books, study of journalistic history of Raknno, exhibition of books and magazines, reader’s surveys, novel writing and literary competitions etc. Raknno will also institute the Raknno Literary Life Time award to a senior Konkani writer. The award carries a cash prize of Rs 50,000/-.
