Goa CM inaugurates World Konkani music convention in Mangaluru
The 13-day event marks the 40th anniversary of the cultural organisation Mandd Sobhann.
Goa Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant inaugurated the first World Konkani music mega convention at the Town Hall in Mangaluru on Tuesday. The event was launched at 6 am with the Chief Minister playing the traditional Gumot percussion instrument, according to the Deccan Herald.
Dr Sawant praised the Konkani-speaking community in Mangaluru for their commitment to maintaining the language without relying on state assistance. He noted that while Konkani is the official language of Goa and receives government support there, the Mangaluru community has kept the language thriving through their own efforts.
The Chief Minister stated that although dialects vary across regions like Pernem, Canacona, Salcete, and Sattari, the community remains united by a shared cultural identity. He encouraged the community to take their language to a global stage.
The convention is being held to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Mandd Sobhann and is dedicated to its founder, the late Eric Ozario. Goa MLA Michael Lobo also commended the late Ozario for his work in promoting Konkani culture and supporting young talent.
A major feature of the 13-day event is a 12-day non-stop singing marathon titled ‘Konko’nni Niro’nto’ri – So’msar So’raso’ri’ in an attempt to enter the Guinness World Records. The marathon expects over 6,700 singers and 300 teams to perform more than 4,500 songs.
The convention will continue until November 15.