Mangaluru: “We must first speak Konkani at home with our children and elders, and make it the official language of our household. That’s the real recognition. Only then will we be worthy of giving public speeches in the language,” said S. L. Prashant Shet, Executive Member of the Konkani Bhasha Mandal Karnataka(R).
He was speaking after inaugurating the Konkani National Recognition Day (Konkani Manyta Divas) celebrations organized by Konkani Bhasha Mandal Karnataka(R) at Ladyhill Victoria School by lighting the lamp.
“We should learn all the languages of the world, but none should make us forget our mother tongue,” he advised.
Chief guest Sr. Maria Kripa A.C. said that educational institutions like theirs can contribute to the growth of the Konkani language by encouraging students to sing Konkani songs, explore its literature, and host such events.
At the valedictory function, chief guest Joseph Mathias, President of the Konkani Cultural Association of St. Mary’s Church, Dubai, distributed cash prizes, certificates, and trophies to winners of the student dance competition conducted in Konkani.
He remarked, “I cannot tolerate the neglect of our language. Wherever I go, I give priority to those who speak Konkani first. I have followed this principle while running my business in Dubai. If you do the same, you are serving the Konkani language.”
The event began with a welcome by Raymond D’Cunha, Secretary of KBMK, who also anchored the program. K. Vasanth Rao presided over the function and conveyed his greetings.
Ladyhill Victoria High School headmistress Sr. Pushpa Pinto A.C. expressed gratitude to everyone who supported the celebration of Konkani Mother Language Recognition.
A Konkani quiz was conducted by executive members of KBMK.
Senior teachers Wilma D’Souza and Wilma Lobo delivered the vote of thanks, while teacher Sweety D’Souza anchored the cultural segments.
Also present were KBMK executive members Geetha C. Kini, Meenakshi Pai, Lawrence Pinto, Robert Menezes, Jossy Pinto, Shanti Veronica, Adolphus D’Souza, Joint Secretary Juliet Fernandes, and Konkani Cultural Association President Prabha.
Teachers of the Ladyhill Victoria institution also extended their support for the program.