On August 20, we commemorated the 35th Konkani Manyata Divas, celebrating the official recognition and rich heritage of our mother tongue, Konkani. At Valencia Parish, this celebration held a special significance as we marked the 25th year of Konkani Manyata Divas celebrations in the parish.
The day began with great enthusiasm, cultural pride and a deep sense of gratitude at Valencia Parish on Sunday, 23 August 2026. The celebrations commenced with a solemn Eucharistic celebration at 6:30 am, presided over by our Parish Priest, Rev. Fr Cyprian Pinto. The Holy Eucharist provided a meaningful beginning to the day’s celebrations.
Following the Mass, a brief flag hoisting ceremony was held, marking the significance of the day. The morning’s guest of honour was Roy Castelino, Public Relations Officer Diocese of Mangalore, President Rachana Catholic Chamber of Commerce & Industry and former president of Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy. The event was presided over by Fr Cyprian Pinto, along with Assistant Parish Priest Fr Alywn Crasta SCJ. Also present were Parish Pastoral Council Vice President Ronald Rodrigues, Secretary Leeda Aquinas.
Chief Guest Roy Castelino, spoke eloquently on the rich history, heritage and cultural significance of the Konkani language. He highlighted the fact that the Konkani speaking community has long been recognised for its learning, intelligence, resilience and strong sense of identity.
Reflecting on the long and determined struggle for constitutional recognition of Konkani. Castelino spoke about the challenges faced by the community in preserving its linguistic and cultural identity. Drawing from his own experiences with government officials, he shared instances that underlined the importance of recognising, respecting and giving due importance to local and regional languages.
He also touched upon the history of Konkani migration, recalling how Konkani speaking communities travelled to different regions and made places such as Mangaluru and Goa their homes. He noted that migration continues even today, with members of the community moving across the world in search of education, employment and better opportunities.
Castelino emphasised that wherever we may go, we carry our mother tongue, heritage and identity with us. He urged the community to take collective responsibility for preserving, protecting and promoting Konkani and most importantly, passing it on to future generations. He encouraged everyone to take pride in speaking Konkani and to recognise the language as an integral part of our identity, heritage and culture.
He also commended the parish community of Valencia for its remarkable contribution to the promotion of Konkani. He acknowledged the many talented individuals from Valencia Parish who have worked tirelessly and selflessly for the Konkani language across various fields. Their dedication and contribution, he said, are truly commendable and serve as an inspiration to continue nurturing and strengthening the language for generations to come.
Vice President Ronald Rodrigues welcomed the gathering, while Secretary Leeda Aquinas delivered the vote of thanks. The program was smoothly compered by Valerie Lobo
The celebration witnessed the participation of around 250 parishioners, all of whom were treated to the traditional delicacy Patholi, adding a homely and cultural touch to the event.
News by Gordon DAlmeida
Pics by Nikhil Studio
