Awaken the Konkani in You - Konkani Sammelan Report
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“Awaken the Konkani in You” experience:
(A report courtesy Shri Muralidhar Kamath, Konkani Sammelan)
The Santa Clara Convention Center was buzzing with Konkani chatter for three days. 1307 delegates from all parts of the world attended the convention. Most cherished was this opportunity to meet friends and relatives. The Panchadik Lounge with backdrops from Mangalore, Goa & Kumata was a perfect place for socializing.
The classical music performance on July 3rd evening by Mahesh Kale captivated the audience. His “Natya Sangeet” kept the listeners enthralled every second. He even sang a Goan Konkani song composed by his guru, Pt. Jitendra Abisheki.
On July 4th, as the clock struck nine, the Opening ceremony started with the Ganesha Vandana. The melodious Konkani songs & lilting music that were woven together with the cultural theme still keep ringing in our ears
.
Our chief guest Prakash Padukone, youth keynote speaker Dr. Sumeeth Bhat and keynote speakers K V Kamath & Jaya Row inspired the audience with their speeches. Seminar topics were educational and well attended.
On July 5th, Konkani youth had a blast with the “Konkani Idol” competition. Karaoke singing, held during the happy hour on July 3rd & July 4th in the Dhingdo Lounge was quite a popular and successful event. The plays, skits and dances in the regional programs were greatly appreciated. The day’s programs culminated with the Closing ceremony which presented various skits, dances and the “Bailatta” which reiterated the theme and tried to “Awaken our Inner Konkani”. The executive committee was presented in quite a unique fashion. They waltzed on the stage to a customized tune in dark suits and swirling ball gowns.
Dining hall arrangements were another highlight of this convention. All delegates
enjoyed delicious and authentic Konkani food in one seating during each meal. The festivities finally ended with a banquet & joyous dancing on July 5th. Konkani people of all ages moved across the dance floor to popular Hindi tunes
The Organizing Committee feels quite gratified that the Sammelan met the expectations of the attending delegates. We really appreciate and acknowledge the incredible sacrifices and efforts of the volunteer teams over the past two years, the open hearted generosity of the many donors and sponsors, the talented performers who entertained the gathering, the professional Convention Center staff & vendors and most of all, “You” - the enthusiastic Konkani delegates who came from far and wide to attend the Sammelan.
See you all in Chicago for the Sammelan 2010!
-Article courtesy - Shri Muralidhar Kamath, Konkani Sammelan







