VASCO
The "Parkonim Kitem Tem Sang," a unique first-of-its-kind riddles contest in Konkani and promoted by the Chicalim Bio-Crusaders, will take place on November 5.
In a press release, human rights activist and co-organiser of the contest Cyril A Fernandes said Parkonim (or Parkonem in its singular form) are Konkani riddles popular in Goa of the past.
"Before the advent of radio and television as a means of entertainment, ‘Parkonnim’ was a pass-time at the village ‘Maand’ or the ‘Balcao’.”
“The elderly would challenge the youngsters in unravelling and solving easy as well as some tough riddles through these ‘Parkonnim’ testing the analytical ability, observational skills and their overall general knowledge of life from among family members, neighbours or community members.”
“However with the advent of television, films and other modern forms of entertainment, ‘Parkonim’ have disappeared from the village entertainment scene." Said the press note.
In an effort to revive this forgotten heritage of Goa, Chicalim Bio-Crusaders will conduct this unique contest ‘Parkonim Kitem Tem Sang’.
The Chicalim bio-Crusaders have uploaded 50 such Konkani ‘Parkonnim’ on YouTube which can be accessed with a link provided on the Chicalim parish website: sfxchicalim.org.
The person answering the maximum number of these riddles will be awarded the C G Varkey Heritage Silver Rolling Trophy and a cash prize of Rs 5,000.
Five runners-up will be awarded unique heritage trophies, while Nirvana, the Goan designer clothing company, has offered a 50% discount coupon on its range of products to all participants at the contest.
Further details of the contest are available at the Chicalim parish website: sfxchicalim.org or on phone (Ph: 9623444324/9422446139).
The unique Goan heritage contest closes on November 5 and winners would be announced on December 3, on the occasion of the Feast of St Francis Xavier, patron saint of Chicalim Parish," the press note adds.
