MOTHER TOUNGE IS THE ROOT OF MANKIND: MADAM GRACE PINTO

Mumbai, Aug. 22: Konkani Bhasha Mandal Maharashtra celebrated its Platinum Jubilee and National Konkani Day at St. Anne’s High-School Hall, Borivili (W). Madam Grace Pinto- Managing Director of the Rayan International Educational Institutions, inaugurated the program and expressed her views.

The program held in the presidency of John D’Silva. Uday Kumar P. Gurkar- president of Shyamrao Vittal Co-operative Bank Limited and Roy Castelino- presidential candidate of Karnataka Konkani literature academy were present as honorary guests. Albert W. D’Souza- vice-president of bhasha mandal, Henry Lobo, John R. Pereira – general secretary, Walter D’Souza Kalmady- Treasurer and P.N. Shanbhag- former president were present on the dais.UdayGurkar and Roy Castelino expressed their views.

Henry D’Souza- Senior and the prestigious musician was honored with an award. Jokim Steny Alwaris, Tony Martis, Francis Fernandes Cassia, and H.J. Govias were also honored in the occasion.

In this event Madam Pinto released the platinum jubilee edition and Albert D’Souza unveiled the Konkani films website. Later prizes were distributed to the winners of various competitions and scholarships were offered to students.

Pascal Lobo- Joint Secretary of Bhasha Mandal, Cyril Castelino- Joint Treasurer, members of the executive committee-Biatris Nahz Fernandes, Antony Buthello, Stanly Dias, Rozario K. Fernandes, Benedicta B. Rebello, Cyprian Alburkark, AnanthaAmmembal, Leo Fernandes, Walnes Rego and many others were present in the program.

John D’Silva welcomed the gathering and delivered the introductory speech. Lawrence D’Souza- member of the bhasha mandal, compiled the program. Leo Fernandes and Veronica Noronha compiled the cultural program. Henry Lobo proposed the vote of thanks.