The prestigious annual awards, Dalgado Puroskar 2025, were conferred at a ceremonial function on seven individuals who have excelled in the literary and cultural fields and have significantly contributed to the preservation and promotion of Konkani literature in the Roman script and the cultural heritage of Goa. The event was held on January 31 at the Ravindra Bhavan Conference Hall, Margao.
The chief guest for the event was Rev Fr Manuel Gomes, an eminent writer, historian, and Parish Priest of Our Lady of Amparo Church, Mandur. The ceremony was graced by the presence of DKA office-bearers, including President Celso Fernandes, Secretary Fr Myron Jeson Barreto, and Treasurer Afonso Braganza, who occupied the dais.
This year, the Dalgado Konknni Akademi introduced the Dalgado Jivon Gourov Puroskar (Lifetime Achievement Award). This award was presented to Tomazinho Cardozo for his immense contribution to Romi Konkani across literature, culture, and service.
The Dalgado Sahityik Puroskar was awarded to Vincy Quadros, the Dalgado Romi Konknni Seva Puroskar to Fr Alfred Judas Vas, the Dalgado Sonskrutik Puroskar to Platilda Afonso e Dias, the Fr Freddy J Da Costa Potrkarita Puroskar to Daniel F de Souza, the Joel D’Souza Daiz Puroskar to Miguel Braganza, and the Berta Menezes Ostori Puroskar to Sandhya Angeli Fernandes.
In his address, Rev Fr Manuel Gomes extended warm wishes to the awardees and called upon everyone to work and serve Romi Konknni. He remarked that there is a need for both readers and writers and acknowledged that while readership has declined, one should not lose hope. He noted that many foreign languages are becoming extinct and emphasised that, in the digital age, there is a need to digitalise literature. He further stated that one should not oppose other scripts and stressed the importance of working together while simultaneously protecting Romi Konkani.
Celso Fernandes, President of DKA, thanked all the awardees. In his speech, he said that everyone must work to promote Romi Konknni and that selfless service will surely be rewarded. He added that promoting Konkani does not require positions of authority, but rather the use of individual talents, and finally called upon everyone to work together, hand-in-hand, to promote and protect Romi Konkani.
Fr Myron Jeson Barreto extended a warm welcome to the gathering, while Afonso Braganza proposed the vote of thanks. Sonia Gomes efficiently compered the event, ensuring its smooth execution. The programme concluded on a patriotic note with the collective singing of the National Anthem.
