PORVORIM
Secretary (Education) Prasad Lolayekar has appealed to all Goans to work hard to preserve Goan culture and the Konkani language.
He was speaking at Porvorim as chief guest at the function organised by the Thomas Stephens Konknni Kendr (TSKK ) to present puroskars to the writers who have done exemplary work in the field of Konkani literature.
“Institutions like the Thomas Stephens Konknni Kendre should offer support and encourage the Konkani writers so that Konkani literature can flourish. It is heartening to note that TSKK is striving hard to promote the culture of Goa be it in literature, music and art,” said Lolayekar.
“Learning in the mother language boosts the self-confidence of children and helps preserve our cultural roots and deepen our understanding of our heritage. Konkani language is the identity of Goans and it is the duty of every Goan to preserve it for posterity,” Lolayekar added.
On the occasion, Ashok Chodankar was awarded the prestigious Antonio Pereira Konknni Puroskar consisting of a cheque for Rs 30,000, a memento and shawl.
The recipients of other Puroskars were Marcos Cosme Andrade (Dr Jack Sequeira Konknni Puroskar), Sr Ameline Fernandes (Maria Afonso Konknni Puroskar), Dr Glenis Mendonca (Valerio Carvalho Konknni Puroskar), Fr Vital Miranda (Pri Casmiro D’Mello Konknni Puraskar) and Fr Roman Rodrigues (Martir Floriano Vaz konknni Puraskar). These puroskars consist of a cheque of Rs 8000, a memento and shawl.
TSKK Director Pandurag Phaldessai welcomed the gathering, while Ashok Chodankar, Dr Glenis Mendonca and Marcos Andrade also spoke on this occasion and expressed gratitude for honouring them with puroskars.
During this occasion, the 27h edition of ‘Sod’ book was released by the chief guest. Christina Esteves and Pio Esteves compered the function and Fr Jose Silveira proposed the vote of thanks.
