PANAJI
In a world where nearly one in seven languages faces extinction, the resilience of Konkani reverberated at the 33rd convention of the All-India Konkani Parishad in Margao on Saturday.
Renowned linguist Dr Ganesh Devi, speaking about the remarkable journey of Konkani and its survival through centuries of challenges ” from invasions to colonisation ” highlighted the fact that the language thrives, producing an impressive 1,500 to 2,000 literary works annually. “This remarkable output positions Konkani as the leading scheduled language in terms of literary production in India relative to its number of speakers, estimated at around 35-40 lakh,” Dr Devi said.
Dr Devi’s remarks celebrate Konkani’s ability to unite diverse communities, embrace cultural influences, and adapt gracefully amid global challenges. As the convention unfolds, it pays tribute to this vibrant language that continues to preserve the cultural identity of the people of Goa and beyond, inspiring future generations to champion its legacy.
Former Konkani Bhasha Mandal president Prashant Naik recalled his memories of the Konkani language agitation and asserted that the issues faced by Konkani-speaking people in other states would also be studied and resolved with the help of the Goa government. Nandkumar Shenoy pointed out that the Parishad would attempt to reach small pockets in different states and help them preserve the language.
Others who spoke at the convention included Nandgopal Shenoy, president of Konkani Bhasha Ani Sanskruti Pratisthan, as well as Fr Mousinho de Ataide, who has taken over the reins of the All-India Konkani Parishad for the next two years. Chetan Acharya, Anant Agni, and Ratnamala Divkar, acting president of Konkani Bhasha Mandal, also addressed the audience.
The two-day convention is organised in association with Konkani Bhasha Mandal.
Books by Cosme Fernandes, R Ramanand Prabhu Korambo, Vishal Sinai Khandeparkar, Kusum Agrawal, and Kumud Naik were launched. Hiresh Mauzo and Godwin Fernandes received floral tributes in memory of the late Narayan Mauzo and John Clar Fernandes. Sahitya Akademi awardees Prakash Paryenkar, Sunetra Jog, Harsha Shetye, and Advait Salgaonkar were felicitated by Nandgopal Shenoy and Dr Ganesh Devi.
