Mangalore: On Sunday, February 11, at 4 p.m., the much-anticipated Konkani film "Payan" by the renowned singer and lyricist Melwin Peris marked its grand debut at the Kulasekhara Church Mini Hall. With a musical journey spanning over 55 years and more than 110 entertainment programmes across India and abroad, Melwin Peris showcased his directorial skills in this inaugural venture. The event, organized by Sangeeth Ghar Productions began with a prayer by Rev. Fr. Clifford Fernandes, and was hosted by Manu Bantwal.
Produced under the banner of "Sangeeth Ghar Productions," the film titled was unveiled by Walter Nandalike, the founder director of Daijiworld Media Pvt. and an esteemed actor. The stage was graced by the presence of Luvi Pinto, President of Konkani Cultural Organisation "Mandd Sobhann’, Rev. Fr. Clipperd Fernandes, the Parish priest of Cordel Church, Producer Neeta J. Peris, and Joel Pereira of "Asmithai" fame, responsible for the story, screenplay, dialogue, and direction of the movie, alongside Melvin Peris.
During the title unveiling, Nandalike drew parallels between the impact of the Tulu film "Oriaddori Asal" and the Konkani film "Asmithai," hailing the latter as a milestone in Konkani cinema. He expressed confidence that "Payan" would similarly inspire future Konkani films. Nandalike commended Melwin Peris for his significant contributions to both the music and devotional music fields, predicting the success of "Payan."
The guest of the programme, Luvi Pinto, described Melvin Peris as a relentless artist and singer, emphasising the support the Mand Sobhan organisation would provide. Gratitude was extended to those who contributed to the success of the previous film, "Ashmithai."
Renowned Konkani music director Joel Pereira, who played a crucial role in "Ashmithai," shared insights into "Payan." He described it as a narrative exploring a musician's journey to find true harmony in life, delving into personal challenges, deceit, breaking stereotypes, and leaving a lasting legacy.
In his opening remarks, MelwinPeris expressed gratitude to his relatives, friends and the Konkani community for their unwavering support throughout his musical career. He sought their continued cooperation for the success of "Payan."
The programme concluded with the felicitation of the film's artists and the technical team, including Brian Sequeira, Dr.Jasmin D'Souza, Kate Pereira, Shaina D'Souza, RynelSequeira, Leslie Rego, Jerry Rasquinha, Walter Nandalike, Jeevan Vas, and JossieRego, among others. The technical team included Roshan D'Souza, Angelore for music, V. Ramanjaneya for photography, Mevil Joel Pinto for editing & Co-direction, and others who contributed to the film's success. "Payan" promises to be a cinematic journey that breaks new ground in the Konkani film industry.