PANAJI
Young voices brought the golden melodies of Konkani music back to life as Avila Mary Grace Fernandes, Alroy Fernandes and Antonio Jenoy Rodrigues emerged winners in the senior female, senior male and junior categories respectively at the 8th edition of Mhozo Tallo Aikat, held at Menezes Braganza Hall, Panaji, on Sunday.
Organised by the Goa Cultural and Social Centre, Panaji, in association with Clube Vasco da Gama, the All Goa Konkani Solo Singing Competition celebrated the evergreen hits of yesteryears. The finalists delivered the songs with confidence and flair, winning appreciation from an audience treated to an evening of nostalgia and music.
The competition drew 91 entries for its preliminary round on August 2, with 43 contestants in the junior category, 29 senior females and 19 senior males. Following the auditions, nine juniors, 10 senior females and eight senior males advanced to the finals.
The young singers were backed by a live band featuring Roy Menezes on saxophone, Sammy Braganza on trombone, Edrol Fernandes on trumpet, Bernado Cardoso on bass, Anthony Pereira on rhythm, Xavier de Moira on drums and Walsh F Fernandes on keyboard.
The performances were assessed by judges Boney Alex Dias, Felix Fernandes and Kenneth Lobo. The evening was compered by the Fernandes brothers, Agnelo and Armando of Borim.
Speaking at the event, Goa Cultural and Social Centre president Francisco Noronha outlined the centre’s efforts to foster and promote Goa’s rich artistic and cultural traditions. General Secretary Milagres Fernandes proposed the vote of thanks and commended the working committee for its continued dedication to the centre’s activities.
In the senior female category, Avila Mary Grace Fernandes of Porvorim took first place, followed by Rishona Denica Gomes of Nuvem in second and Glenis Maria Mendonca of Panaji in third.
Alroy Fernandes of Margao claimed the senior male title, while Robert Ryan D’Souza of Mandrem finished second and Ansh Sai Bandekar of Raia secured third place.
Antonio Jenoy Rodrigues of Arambol won the junior category, with Anzia Olsie Rogtao of Betalbatim securing second place and Phebe Annette Rodrigues of Borim finishing third.
