THE GOAN NETWORK
The first World Konkani Mega Music Convention in Mangaluru is nearing its finish, with the singing marathon entering its second-to-last day on November 14. Organised by Mandd Sobhann at Town Hall, the event began on November 3 and has brought together singers from different regions in an attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the longest singing marathon by multiple singers. Among the 53 Goan teams taking part are groups formed through parish choirs, colleges and years of association with music and theatre.
AMCHEM GÕY
The 25-member Salcete group, Amchem Gõy, brings together singers from Raia, Loutolim, Camorlim, Curtorim, Majorda, Borda, Fatorda and Mungul. Most members come from different choir groups and have been involved in music for several years. “We are all very excited to be part of this mega event where we will set a world record in Konkani music,” said Julius Mungul. The group has been practising for the past month and is looking forward to its performance on November 14. “We are anxiously waiting for the day and time when we will perform. We pray to God to help us give our best,” he said.
CARMEL COLLEGE
The Carmel College of Arts Science and Commerce team was the last to be formed among the 53 Goan groups, coming together in the final week of August. Its coordinator, Cialini Fernandes, said Michael Gracious approached her to lead the team and encouraged her to take up the opportunity. “I am grateful to him for trusting me and allowing our college to be part of this great convention,” she said. The college management and principal have supported the team, which has been practising three times a week. For Fernandes, the record attempt is about bringing people together and working towards a shared goal. She said coordinating a group meant keeping different personalities together, maintaining morale and ensuring everyone played their part.
GRATIA DEI-GOA
Gratia Dei – Goa, a 35-member choral group with singers from different parishes, was founded by Fr. John Albano Fernandes on March 19, 2025, while he served as Assistant Parish Priest of Verna. What began as a Gospel band gradually grew into a polyphonic choir. Fr. Fernandes said the late Fr. Bolmax Pereira inspired the group’s participation, asking him shortly before his demise to take part in the marathon. Michael Gracias also encouraged the group to join. “It is also a tribute to the vision of the late Fr. Bolmax Pereira and a moment of immense pride and gratitude for every member of our group,” said Fr. Fernandes. The group hopes to use the platform to showcase Goa’s choral talent and celebrate Konkani music.
SAWANT FAN CLUB & MEDIA PEOPLE
Amar P Sawant Fan Club and Media People Goa brings years of experience in theatre and event productions, having been associated with the Konkani film Papa (2000) and the award-winning theatre Ek Istor Tuji Ani Mhoji (2026). Amar Sawant said Conceicao Fernandes has led the musical side of their productions, working on lyrics, composition and music direction with the guidance of Alluri Thompson Martin and Prajwal Mendonca. The team joined the record attempt after Michael Gracias approached them. “Being part of this attempt gives us a wonderful opportunity to showcase our talent on a global platform and promote our rich Konkani musical culture,” said Sawant. He also thanked the organisers for bringing the event together.
As the marathon heads towards its final day on November 15, the Goan teams are looking forward to being part of an effort that brings Konkani singers together. For each group, the occasion is an opportunity to share its music, represent Goa and celebrate a language and culture they hold close.
