THE GOAN
PANAJI
The First World Konkani Music Mega Convention, organised by Mangaluru-based cultural organisation Mandd Sobhann as part of its Ruby Jubilee celebrations, is bringing together Konkani singers from across the world for a 12-day, 12-hour and 12-minute singing marathon. Being held at Town Hall, Mangaluru, from November 3 to 15, the convention features an attempt to set a Guinness World Records title for the longest singing marathon by multiple singers. Around 300 teams and more than 6,700 singers are expected to perform over 4,500 Konkani songs without interruption. On Saturday, Day 5, November 7, five teams from Goa will take the stage, representing the tiatr fraternity, an educational institution and cultural associations.
Established in 2009 by the Government of Goa, the Tiatr Academy of Goa works to promote and preserve Konkani tiatr, including its music, songs, dances and literature. The Academy saw the Guinness World Records attempt as an opportunity it could not miss. Coordinated by Rev. Fr. Elvis Dias, Chaplain of St Francis Xavier Chapel, along with Rev. Fr. Eusico Pereira, Parish Priest of Holy Cross Church, Cavelosim, Rev. Fr. Benny D’Costa, Parish Priest of St Anne’s Church, Bodiem, and the parishioners of Guirdolim, the team has been rehearsing daily.
“One of the most important components of tiatr is the Konkani kantar (songs). Kantar is not simply an addition to tiatr; it is an integral part of this theatrical tradition and has its own cultural and artistic significance,” says Anthony Barbosa, President of the Tiatr Academy of Goa. The Academy has brought together singers with hidden talent who may not often get opportunities to perform on larger platforms, along with priests passionate about Konkani singing. Barbosa says the participation represents the tiatr fraternity and generations of artistes who have worked to preserve the Goan art form. He adds that the initiative hopes to encourage emerging and lesser-known singers. The Academy’s team is also the only one representing the Government of Goa in the attempt.
Fr Agnel College of Arts & Commerce, Pilar, brings together students and staff united by their love for music and singing. “Our participation aims to provide students with a unique platform to showcase their talents, gain exposure and build confidence,” says Fr. Milton Rodrigues. He adds that the attempt offers students an opportunity to promote Konkani music and Goan culture while taking pride in their language and traditions.
Goan.com Socio & Cultural Association, Goa, brings together youngsters, Konkani singers and tiatr artistes passionate about Goan music and culture. “Setting a Guinness World Record would be a moment of immense pride for our group and Goa. For us, it is not just about creating a record but about giving Konkani music greater recognition and encouraging youngsters to preserve and promote our mother tongue,” says Fr. Milton Rodrigues. The association hopes that the participation will help bring Konkani music to a wider audience and inspire more young people to engage with the language and its cultural traditions.
Menino Jesus Kala Association, Chinchinim, was established in 2013 through the efforts of Father Doel Dias, whose guidance and encouragement brought the group together. “When we first heard about the attempt, our immediate reaction was, ‘Wow, this is huge!’ As the days passed, we realised this was not just another performance, but a truly remarkable experience,” says Jess Baraddi. The rehearsals have brought members closer, with occasional disagreements resolved through teamwork and a shared commitment. “Through our music, we get to express our love and appreciation for Goa, its rich cultural heritage and traditions,” says Baraddi, adding that the members are ready to sing their hearts out and cherish the experience for a lifetime.
The second team from Menino Jesus Kala Association, Chinchinim, also formed in 2013, shares a passion for music, unity and the promotion of Goan cultural heritage. What began as a common interest has grown into a collective effort to showcase local talent and contribute to Goa’s musical traditions. “Our association was formed with a passion for music, unity and the promotion of Goan cultural heritage,” says Fr Doel Dias.
For all five teams, the performance is about more than being part of a record attempt. It is a chance to celebrate a language that continues to bring people together across generations.
