Mangaluru: Marking the ruby jubilee (40th anniversary) of the Konkani cultural organisation Mandd Sobhann, First World Konkani Music Mega Convention officially started at 5 am on Tuesday at Kudmul Ranga Rao Town Hall.The 13-day international extravaganza to be held till Nov 15 aims to unite Konkani-speaking communities across the globe, celebrate the language’s vibrant cultural heritage, and present its diverse musical traditions on a global platform.The event was inaugurated by Goa chief minister Pramod Sawant and blessed by Rev Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of Mangaluru.A key highlight of the convention is the ambitious Guinness World Records title attempt, titled ‘Konko’nni Niro’nto’ri – So’msar So’raso’ri’ (Eternal Konkani–Unto the World’s End). The record attempt features a continuous singing marathon with 300 performing teams in non-stop rotation over 12 continuous days. Over 6,700 singers from around the world, including 53 teams from Goa, are set to participate, rendering more than 4,500 Konkani songs representing diverse dialects, communities, and musical traditions without repetition of singers or songs.Declaring the Guinness World Record attempt open, Goa CM Sawant lauded the efforts of Mandd Sobhann and the entire reception committee. “While dialects may change, the Konkani people remain one in heart and language. Konkani is the official language of Goa and receives state support there, yet the Konkani-speaking community in Mangaluru has kept the language thriving through sheer dedication without reliance on govt systems. Recognising this dedication, the Goa govt considers Konkani achievers from outside Goa for its official state awards,” he said. While separated by state boundaries, Goa and coastal Karnataka share a coastline, culture, and lifestyle that complement each other, he added, expressing hope that this shared heritage continues forever.Michael Lobo, MLA, Calangute, Goa, commended the late Eric Ozario’s lifelong contribution to promoting Konkani culture and providing platforms for young talent. The entire event is dedicated to the cherished memory of the late Eric Ozario, visionary Gurkar and founder of Mandd Sobhann.At 6 am sharp the Goa CM played the gumot, which signalled the start of the marathon singing.
About The Author
