Konkani Sambhram, KANAPA-2026

“Konkani Manyata Divas 2026” was joyfully celebrated as “Konkani Sambhram, KANAPA-2026”, a parish-level inter-ward cultural competition organised by Konkani Sahitya Kala and Samskrutik Sanghatan, Udupi District in association with ICYM Udyavar and Mandd Sobhan on 6th September 2026 at St. Francis Xavier Church Hall, Udyavar. Fifteen wards participated with great enthusiasm, showcasing poetry, singing and dance.

Inaugural Ceremony program began with welcome by Rishan Dsouza and compered by Conrad Quadrous.

The event was formally inaugurated by Rev. Fr. Anil D’Souza, Parish Priest, Udyavar, by hoisting the flag. In his inaugural message, Fr. Anil reflected that Konkani is a precious heritage passed down by our ancestors and it is the responsibility of the present generation, especially the youth, to cherish, protect and carry forward this rich mother tongue. He expressed joy at seeing youth actively preserving traditions.

Chief Guest Mr. Anil D’Sa (Anil Pangla) addressed the gathering on the significance of Konkani Manyata Divas, highlighting the need to recognize, respect and preserve our mother tongue so that it flourishes among future generations.

The ceremony was graced by Dr. Flavia Castelino, President of the Sanghatan, office bearers of Parish Pastoral Council, Animators and ICYM office bearers. Vote of thanks by Disha Fernandes.

Judges for the cultural competition were: Singer & Musician, Karavali Kogul Awardee Mr. Anil Dsa Pangla, Konkani drama writer, poet & anchor Mr. Walston Dsa, Shankerpura, and choreographer Mr. Leywin Noronha, Karkala. Competent’s were enthusiastic and full of zeal. The walls of the hall were echoing Konkani and only Konkani music, dance, gumta, and poetry seven hours. Scoring was hardest task but the judges have done a marvellous job.
The valedictory program was presided over by Sanghatan President Dr. Flavia Castelino and welcomed by Delina Aroza.

Chief Guest Mr. Walston Dsa appreciated the richness of Konkani culture and lauded the unity, dedication and teamwork of the youngsters who organized this meaningful parish-level event. He encouraged youth to continue preserving their cultural identity.

Guest of Honour Mr. John M. D’Souza, the guest of honour in his short message, stressed that mother tongue brings people together, strengthens community unity, and must be proudly passed on to future generations.

In her presidential address, Dr. Flavia Castelino spoke on the responsibility of youth in preserving, promoting and using Konkani. She felicitated Sanghatan Secretary Mr. Ritesh D’Souza for his tireless service and coordinators Mr. Glanish Pinto and Delina Aroza for smooth coordination. She urged all to take pride in Konkani and keep it alive.

Judges were felicitated, and Sanghatan Founder President Dr. Gerald M. Pinto was also felicitated for being awarded Best Writer of the Year by Raknno Weekly on the same day.

The winners of Konkani Sambhram, KANAPA-2026 are 1st Prize was bagged by Vailankani Ward, 2nd Prize by Rosary Ward and 3rd Prize by Conception Ward.
Special prize for best anchor out of fifteen wards was won by Mr Anil Menezes from Saud B ward. Glanish Pinto thanked all and concluded the program.
The celebration was a memorable tribute to Konkani, proving that when generations unite, mother tongue will always live on.