The 35th Konkani Manyata Divas was celebrated with great grandeur, enthusiasm and cultural pride at Valencia Church on 23 August 2026. The celebration, which also marked the Silver Jubilee of Konkani Manyata Divas celebrations at Valencia Church, continued a cherished tradition that has been upheld by the parish for the past 25 years.
The celebrations began at 5.30 pm at the Golden Jubilee Hall. The Guest of Honour for the occasion was Stany Alvares, President of the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy. The program was presided over by Fr Cyprian Pinto Parish Priest in the presence of Fr Alwyn Crasta SCJ Assistant Parish Priest, Ronald Rodrigues Vice-President of the Parish Pastoral Council, Leeda Aquinas Secretary and Julian DSouza Coordinator of the 22 Commissions.
Addressing the gathering, Stany Alvares spoke about the richness, beauty and enduring legacy of the Konkani language. He recalled that Konkani received official recognition 35 years ago and said that this was a matter of great pride for every Konkani-speaking person. He also highlighted the unique way in which the language varies from place to place while retaining its cultural identity.
Making a special mention, there are many individuals who have tirelessly worked for the preservation, promotion and growth of Konkani language, culture and traditions. He acknowledged that people have contributed in different ways through literature, music, art, cultural activities and various community initiatives and that their collective efforts have played a significant role in keeping the Konkani identity alive. He proudly pointed out that a major number of these individuals who have toiled and contributed to the Konkani cause are from Valencia Parish, making the parish’s contribution to the preservation and promotion of Konkani culture particularly significant and worthy of recognition.
Expressing concern that many children today do not regularly speak Konkani, he urged parents and families to encourage the younger generation to use the language in their homes and daily lives. He stressed that the responsibility of preserving and passing on this precious linguistic heritage rests with every generation. He concluded by extending his warm wishes to everyone on the occasion of Konkani Manyata Divas.
In his presidential address, Fr Cyprian Pinto began by recalling the spirit of Konkani culture through the song “Mhoji Bhaas Konkani” by the late Konkan Kogul Wilfy Rebimbus. Extending his best wishes to all, especially as Valencia Parish celebrated the Silver Jubilee of its Konkani Manyata Divas tradition, he called upon everyone to take pride in their mother tongue and its rich heritage.
Fr Cyprian appreciated the tremendous efforts behind the successful organisation of the celebration, especially the dedication of the Parish Council, the Vice President, the various commissions and the parishioners. He said he had personally witnessed the hard work, enthusiasm and commitment of people of all ages who had been practising for the program over the past month.
He also expressed his joy at witnessing the beautiful spirit of togetherness among parishioners. Referring to the community effort earlier in the day, including the preparations for the traditional dinner, he said it was heartening to see people coming together in a spirit of love, service and unity towards the Church and the community. He congratulated everyone involved and wished that this spirit of fellowship and the strong bond among parishioners would continue to grow.
The cultural program that followed was a vibrant celebration of Konkani culture and talent. Parishioners from the various zones of the parish participated enthusiastically, presenting colourful and lively performances.
The program commenced with a welcome prayer by the Children’s Choir, followed by a welcome address by Parish Pastoral Council Vice President Ronald Rodrigues. The cultural presentations captivated the audience and showcased the enthusiasm and talents of parishioners, both young and old. The program was ably and gracefully compered by Dolphy Saldanha. The formal program concluded with a vote of thanks by Parish Pastoral Council Secretary Leeda Aquinas.
Around 1,500 parishioners witnessed and participated in this memorable celebration of Konkani identity, language and culture. The celebrations concluded with a delicious traditional Mangalorean dinner, prepared and served with the wholehearted cooperation and participation of the parish community, adding a warm and homely touch to the evening.
News by Gordon DAlmeida
Pics by Nikhil Studio
