Fun, frolic to mark Konkani divas

Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy, in association with 134 other Konkani organisations and institutions, has lined up a veritable fare for the “Konkani Manyata Divas,” which would be celebrated here on August 19. The events include State-level cross-country race for people in various age groups, competitions for school students and a few competitions exclusively for Konkani-speaking communities. The Konkani Manyata Divas is observed to mark the inclusion of Konkani in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution. Although the inclusion was done on August 20, 1992, the organisers have advanced it by a day this year as it falls on Sunday. This year’s celebration is special in that as the State Government had approved the inclusion of Konkani as a third optional language for students from the sixth standard.The State-level cross-country race is open to boys and girls below 15 years, men and women in the 15 to 40 age group as well as for those above 40 years. The events exclusive to Konkani-speaking people include state-level tug-of-war for men and passing the ball for women. Competitions for students include story telling and group dance.

The academy has arranged for 10 Konkani folk troupes, who will display their art throughout the day. Ministers M.P. Prakash and Basavaraj Horatti will attend the function at the Ganapathi High School complex, G.H.S. Road, in the evening. Details can be had from the academy in person or over phone 0824-2453167.

No reason to merge Konkani-speaking areas with Goa

The Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy as well as Konkani organisations in the State, which met here under the aegis of the academy recently, have condemned the demand to merge Konkani-speaking areas in Karnataka with Goa. The academy has termed the demand “subversive.”

Eric Ozario, president of the academy, told presspersons here on Wednesday that such a demand was aimed at dividing the Konkani community. More than 25 lakh Konkani-speaking people were peacefully coexisting with their brethren in various parts of Karnataka. They had learnt to read, write and speak Kannada, and enjoyed a high sense of security in the State, he said.

The State had been extending all possible assistance for development of Konkani-speaking people and promotion of Konkani language, culture and arts.

Although the number of people speaking Tamil, Telugu, Marathi and Malayalam in the State was more compared to those who spoke Konkani, the Government had been magnanimous in sanctioning an academy for the development of Konkani, he said.

The Government has also accorded sanction for introduction of Konkani as one of the third optional languages for sixth standard students from the current academic year, in both Kannada and Devanagari scripts. All these measures had given Konkani-speaking people a strong sense of security. Hence there was no reason for merging Konkani-speaking areas with Goa.

Noting that the Union Government had given official sanction for inclusion of Konkani as an official language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution on August 20, 1992, Mr. Ozario said the academy and the 130-odd Konkani organisations and institutions in the State had been observing that historic occasion as “Recognition Day.”

The 15th anniversary of this event would be observed here on August 19, he said. On the reason for holding the event a day earlier, Mr. Ozario said that August 19 would be convenient for everyone to participate in the cultural and sports programmes as it was a Sunday.

H.S. Shivarudrappa, registrar of the academy, was present.

Konkani Award presented to Padukone

With professionalism and best performance by different sports, Federations India can produce great sports persons, opined former captain of Indian Badminton team Prakash Padukone.

He was speaking after receiving the prestigious Konkani Award, instituted by Dr T M A Pai Foundation Manipal, here on Tuesday. He hoped that a ‘Sports City’ would come up in India where in talented youths are identified, groomed and given a right break at right time.

On the occasion retired Senior Vice Chairman of City Group Vitor J Menezes, noted Harmonium player Pandit Tulsidas Borker and eminent poet Manoharrai Sardessai (posthumously) were also honoured with the Konkani Award.

President of Dr T M A Pai Foundation K K Pai, President of Manipal University Dr Ramdas M Pai, Chairman of Prasar Bharathi M V Kamath, Dr H Shantharam and others were present on the occasion.

GSP against Churchill’s demand for Romi Konkani status

The Goa Su-Raj Party is categorically against the presentation of the ‘Language Bill’ by the Navelim MLA Churchill Alemao asking for the conferring of the Official Status for Konkani in the ‘Roman’ Script.

This party believes that Konkani language written in any script is still the Konkani language, the sole official language of the State. This move by the Navelim MLA is bad in taste as it has necessitated the Marathi lobby to counter it by presenting the Bill asking for official status for Marathi in Goa, stated a press release.
The Goa Su-Raj Party will never accept Marathi as the official language of Goa and stands by Konkani as the official language of Goa whether in Devnagiri, Roman or any other script.
It is unfortunate that the script issue was not foreseen when Konkani was accorded the official status in 1987.
This Party believes that the Roman script issue for Konkani must be buried once and for all as it only serves the purpose of keeping Goans divided and fighting against one another.
This Party believes that for any script to flourish, there is the need for its votaries and patrons, foremost, being the will of the ‘Government’ to look upon the State language ‘Konkani’ favourably and not use the official status of the Devnagiri script to discriminate against and stunt the promotion of Konkani in the Roman script. It must be well understood that Goans have come a long way in using the ‘Roman’ as well as the ‘Devnagiri’ Scripts for Konkani and must desist any further confrontations among themselves in this regard if they want Goa’s Official language not to be diluted and lost forever for petty, selfish gains. If that happens, Goans themselves will have to take that blame and be accountable to posterity.
The Goa Su-Raj Party urges the Navelim MLA Churchill Alemao and PWD Minister Sudin Dhavlikar to to hold back or withdraw the respective ‘Bills’ from being presented to the Legislative Assembly, since there is still time for this to be done and save Goa and Goans from the ultimate heartache.
The Goa Su-Raj Party desires that such a thing happens and is fully confidant that it will happen in the larger interest of Goa and Goans.

Teaching of Konkani begins in schools

MANGALORE: Students of Nalanda English Medium School on V.T. Road here chorused “Vath yetha paus yetha, kunkdak mankdak vardhik jatha” on a cue from Indira Jodumath, treasurer of Karnataka State Konkani Linguistic Minority Educational Institutions’ Association.

This marked the beginning of teaching Konkani in Devanagari script as the optional third language in schools under the association.

This marked the beginning of teaching Konkani in Devanagari script. Mellifluous rendering of this lesson from “Karnatak Konkani Bharati”, the textbook approved by the Government for students of sixth standard opting to study Konkani as an optional language, marked the realisation of a longstanding dream of Konkani-speaking community in the State.

An initiative taken by Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy to teach Konkani in Kannada script, incidentally, had taken off a few weeks ago.

N. Yogish Bhat, MLA, who released the textbook, said that the manner in which a language was taught was more important.

Stating that efforts of many people over the years to teach Konkani as an optional language in schools had finally materialized, Mr. Bhat thanked the Government for giving the go ahead to teach Konkani in Devanagari and Kannada scripts as sought by sections of the community.

Efforts made by the Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy to introduce Tulu as an optional language in schools was also on the verge of being realized, the Karnataka Text Book Society had printed the textbooks., he said.

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Meet opposes land acquisition for MSEZ

The residents of Thenka Yekkar manifested their solidarity as they all unanimously declared: We are ready to sacrifice our lives but not our fertile lands that have been the only source of our livelihood

The residents of Thenka Yekkar manifested their solidarity as they all unanimously declared: “We are ready to sacrifice our lives but not our fertile lands that have been the only source of our livelihood’’.
A preliminary meeting was held with the residents of Thenka Yekkar, whose lands are likely to be acquired for the proposed Mangalore Special Economic Zone (MSEZ) on Saturday at the Yekkar Kodamanithaya temple hall.
Over 200 residents gathered to declare their stand on the acquisition of land in the presence of Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB) land acquisition officer Vijayakumari Shenoy.
While Ms Shenoy came up to talk about the rehabilitation package to the people, the residents refused to even give heed to her and stood firm on their decision to fight for their rights.
Ms Shenoy further made attempts to convince the residents by saying that they were being given ‘the best package’. The residents citing examples of the plight of those who had lost their lands to MRPL, said that they do not want such things to happen to them. The locals question why there is a misconception that only a petro-chemical complex can bring development?
They proposed that since the entire region is living on agriculture, the region can be declared as ‘Agricultural special economic zone’ to promote farming.

Effort to promote Konkani language gaining ground

Bangalore: The Konkani Sahitya Academy is confident that the State Government will introduce Konkani as a third language in 100 more schools in the State from the next academic year.

In compliance with the trilingual formula, the academy has played a key role in the implementation of Konkani as a third language (from sixth standard) in 55 schools, covering 1,586 students in Konkani-speaking areas across the State from this academic year.

The academy has been urging the State Government since 1994 to consider introduction of Konkani as a third language in primary schools. Though the Government deliberated over the issue in 2004, it could not implement it reportedly due to financial constraints.

Although the academy’s approach to educational activities has attracted criticism, it has set a precedent in defining what purposeful role an academy could play in the area of social development.

Thanks to the chairman of the academy Eric Alexander Ozario, who took pains to elevate the status of the academy from the routine award-presenting and book publishing body to an effective implementing agency, the Konkani Sahitya Academy has now earned a pride of place among the various State-run academies.

There are an estimated 25 lakh Konkani-speaking people in the State.

According to Mr. Ozario not many are aware that several backward communities in Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada, Kodagu and some districts in the Malnad region, and also those in other urban areas speak Konkani. Besides, the politically and economically influential Konkani Christians and Gowda Saraswath Brahmins speak Konkani.

Realising that the number of those speaking and writing Konkani was dwindling, the academy resolved to protect and develop the language. In the process, the academy had to encounter problems over choosing the script for the language, as Konkani has no script of its own.

“After a thorough debate, the academy chose the Kannada script. Supported by public contribution, it launched a pilot project and has engaged established Konkani writers to coordinate the literary activities. This has resulted in the Konkani-speaking people evincing interest in their mother tongue. I will not be surprised if Konkani becomes a medium of instruction in the future,” he said.
Academy activities

On the activities of the academy, Mr. Ozario said it had published many books. A Konkani-English dictionary has also been brought out.

The Department of Kannada and Culture is all praise for the Konkani Sahitya academy for being the only one to fully utilise its annual grant of Rs. 20.5 lakh.

It has launched many novel programmes such as Samskrithika Sangama, a periodical interaction with Tulu, Kodava and Urdu academies.

However, Mr. Ozario wants the Government to rename the academy as Konkani academy as the existing Konkani Sahitya Academy will limit its activities.

London safety patrollers honoured

Two London boys who pulled a younger child from the path of an oncoming van were recognized at an awards ceremony yesterday in Oshawa.

Shpend Bytyqi and Devdutt Kamath, Grade 6 pupils at Sir George-Etienne Cartier public school, reacted quickly and smartly to save a Grade 1 pupil on May 8, a Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) representative said.

As a cluster of pupils stood waiting for the signal to cross the road, a Grade 1 pupil darted through them into the street, said Leslie Rocha, a traffic safety specialist with the CAA.

The younger child was looking down and didn't see a van approaching, but "luckily, these quick-thinking pat-rollers noticed the little boy right away."

Each patroller grabbed an arm and pulled the younger boy to safety.

Their action saved the younger boy from serious injury or worse, said Rocha.

The incident was observed by the boy's mother on the opposite side of the crosswalk and by a teacher.

The boys were nominated for the patroller-of-the-year award by Susan Masciotra, safety patrol supervisor and learning support teacher at Cartier.

In her nomination, she said it was the greatest feat she had witnessed in 19 years of supervising safety patrollers at three schools.

Masciotra praised the "heroic acts of these courageous boys" and their conscientious dedication to their patrol duties.

"They have each performed extra duties by substituting for other patrollers when needed. They are kind-hearted, responsible pat-rollers, promptly ready for duty . . . they can be relied on to faithfully fulfil their duties."

And they often partner at their posts, Masciotra added.

Bytyqi and Kamath share a trophy, plaque and $500, presented by London police Sgt. Jeff Arbing and Supt. Rob Brown, who made the trip to Oshawa for the award ceremony.

The CAA's Patricia Curran Award for patroller-of-the-year was named in honour of a woman who dedicated herself to traffic safety camps for 33 years.

Syndicate Bank bags award

Udupi: The Syndicate Bank has bagged award for promoting Solar Energy Systems by advancing maximum loans for solar systems in 2006-07 according to a press release.

The USAID, WINROCK International India and the Ministray of New and Renewable Energy, have jointly instituted the award to encourage bank managers in promoting solar energy system.

Krishnanda Baliga, branch manager of Syndicate Bank, Mundugod, and K R Brahma, Manager Syndicate Bank, Sirsi, have got the first and second prizes, respectively. Vasudeva Rao, former Manager of Syndicate Bank, Kollur Branch, has got special award for releasing loans up to Rs 50 lakh.

UGDP rules out tie-up with SGF

Attempts by Save Goa Front supremo Churchill Alemao and UGDP MLA Babush Monserrate to seek official recognition for Konkani in the Roman script appears to have finally grounded talks to bring the two regional outfits under one banner.


What’s more, the move has caused a divide in the UGDP, with its lone MLA supporting the Roman script, and the party, controlled by Anacleto Viegas, opposing the proposal.
In fact, UGDP secretary general Anacleto Viegas told Herald on Friday that the two parties cannot come together with the outfits at loggerheads on all major issues, including the language script row.
“As far as the UGDP is concerned, the chances of the two parties coming together are over. We will retain the identity of the UGDP, come what may,” he asserted.
Viegas further tried to reason out why the party’s lone MLA Babush Monserrate supported Churchill Alemao’s proposal vis-a-vis Roman script.
“Whatever Babush said in the House, was his personal opinion, and not that of the UGDP,” Viegas pointed out.
He lambasted Save Goa Front supremo Churchill Alemao for raking up the script issue for personal gains.
He said that the party did not authorise Babush to support the Roman script, as the party did not deliberate the issue.
“There is difference of opinion in the party over the issue. A majority favours status quo on the matter,” he maintained, adding, “It was not right for Babush to support the Roman script when the party is yet to deliberate and decide on the issue.”
A strong votary of Konkani in the Devnagri script, Viegas said that the script issue is no longer relevant in the State. “I subscribe to the view of the government that the issue was settled long ago,” he stated.
On Churchill raking up the script issue, the UGDP secretary general said, “Someone who has not learnt Konkani in either scripts — Devnagri or Roman — should not advise Goans on the matter.”
He feared that Churchill’s moves to accord official status to Konkani in the Roman script would only communalise Goan society, especially when the people have accepted the Official Language Act. “He is doing this for personal gains,” Viegas noted.
When asked about the fate of the 6-member committee constituted to explore the possibility of uniting the two regional forces, Viegas shot back, “What can the committee members do when there are major differences between the UGDP and the SGF on several issues?”

Konkani textbook released in Mangalore

Mangalore: The Konkani textbook in Devanagari script prepared by the DSERT with the help of Karnataka State Konkani Linguistic Minority Educational Institutions' Association, was released by MLA N Yogish Bhat at Nalanda English Medium School here on Saturday.

The Konkani textbook in Devanagari (as well as Kannada) script is the result of the State government's approval to teach Konkani as a third optional language either in Kannada or Devanagari script in the 6th standard.

Speaking after releasing the book, Mr Bhat said that the government nod and the release of the textbook was a long pending dream of the Konkani speaking people. However, the Karnataka Konkani Sahithya Academy had already taken initiative to teach Konkani in schools for the past many months.

The programme will be implemented in 36 schools with over 2,200 students. Mr Bhat also hoped that the government will also give its nod to introduce Tulu in schools.

On the occasion, Karnataka State Konkani Linguistic Minority Educational Institutions' Association Treasurer Indira Jodumutt and Textbook Review Committee Member Suchithra Shenoy were felicitated for their role in bringing out the textbook.

Konkani Basha Mandal President Rev Fr Eric Crasta said that there is a need to continue the efforts of those who had worked to introduce Konkani in schools. Konkani Samskrithika Sangha President Raghava R Kamath, Canara Institutions Honourary Secretary M Annappa Pai and Association President Dr U S Mohandas Nayak among others were present.

Memorandum

Later, Association Honourary Secretary Dr K Mohan Pai presented a memorandum to State government through MLA N Yogish Bhat which stressed the need to grant �Linguistic Minorities' status to all member institutions;make budgetary allocation for designing and printing Konkani text books; to cover all the institutions run by the members of minimum 20 years standing, under the grant-in-aid scheme; and to avoid any administrative decisions which would hamper the constitutional rights of the Linguistic Minorities under Section 29 and 30 of the Constitution.

UB Group uncorks expansion plans for wines

Unruffled by the removal of additional custom duty on imported wine, Vijay Mallaya- promoted UB Group is planning an investment of Rs 88 crore in the next five years for setting up two wineries and developing vineyards.

UB Group Chief Wine Maker and Business Head, Wines, Abhay Kewadkar said that the firm would set up wineries at Baramati in Maharashtra and Bangalore, besides expanding its vineyards.

"We will own 300 acres of vineyards at Baramati and simultaneously enter into long-term agreements with local farmers for 1,000 acres while discussions are on for the same in Karnataka," he said, adding that an investment of Rs 88 crore in the next five years has been earmarked for the winery and vineyard projects.

The company is expecting to sell 0.5 million bottles in the first year of Barmati winery and would gradually scale it up to 5 million bottles by the end of the fifth year, he said. Exports would also play a significant part, he added.

"We are looking at exporting 10 per cent of total production from this new winery in the first year and then increase the same to 30 per cent at the end of third year," he said.

Initially, it will be exported to New Zealand, Australia and the UK, and in the next phase it will target the US, South African and French markets.

The group's winery division - United Vinters Ltd-- also has plans to market imported wine in the country. The company has already acquired Bouvet Ladubay SAS winery in France for 15 million euros. The winery has a capacity to produce three million bottles a year.

Effort to promote Konkani language gaining ground

The Konkani Sahitya Academy is confident that the State Government will introduce Konkani as a third language in 100 more schools in the State from the next academic year.

In compliance with the trilingual formula, the academy has played a key role in the implementation of Konkani as a third language (from sixth standard) in 55 schools, covering 1,586 students in Konkani-speaking areas across the State from this academic year.

The academy has been urging the State Government since 1994 to consider introduction of Konkani as a third language in primary schools. Though the Government deliberated over the issue in 2004, it could not implement it reportedly due to financial constraints.

Although the academy’s approach to educational activities has attracted criticism, it has set a precedent in defining what purposeful role an academy could play in the area of social development.

Thanks to the chairman of the academy Eric Alexander Ozario, who took pains to elevate the status of the academy from the routine award-presenting and book publishing body to an effective implementing agency, the Konkani Sahitya Academy has now earned a pride of place among the various State-run academies.

There are an estimated 25 lakh Konkani-speaking people in the State.

According to Mr. Ozario not many are aware that several backward communities in Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada, Kodagu and some districts in the Malnad region, and also those in other urban areas speak Konkani. Besides, the politically and economically influential Konkani Christians and Gowda Saraswath Brahmins speak Konkani.

Realising that the number of those speaking and writing Konkani was dwindling, the academy resolved to protect and develop the language. In the process, the academy had to encounter problems over choosing the script for the language, as Konkani has no script of its own.

“After a thorough debate, the academy chose the Kannada script. Supported by public contribution, it launched a pilot project and has engaged established Konkani writers to coordinate the literary activities. This has resulted in the Konkani-speaking people evincing interest in their mother tongue. I will not be surprised if Konkani becomes a medium of instruction in the future,” he said.

Academy activities

On the activities of the academy, Mr. Ozario said it had published many books. A Konkani-English dictionary has also been brought out.

The Department of Kannada and Culture is all praise for the Konkani Sahitya academy for being the only one to fully utilise its annual grant of Rs. 20.5 lakh.

It has launched many novel programmes such as Samskrithika Sangama, a periodical interaction with Tulu, Kodava and Urdu academies.

However, Mr. Ozario wants the Government to rename the academy as Konkani academy as the existing Konkani Sahitya Academy will limit its activities.

Karwar MLA skips anti-merger rally

The absence of Karwar MLA Gangadhar Bhat in a rally organised by various Kannada organisations here on Saturday to protest against the demand by two Konkani outfits for the merger of three border taluks of Uttara Kannada district with Goa, has raised eye brows.

‘Mukhyamantri’ Chandru, MLC, who led the rally, did not conceal his unhappiness over Bhat’s absence. Chandru, without mentioning Bhat’s name, said that people would not excuse anyone, including people’s representatives, who supported the Goa Konkani Rajya Ekikaran Manch.

He said that pro-Kannada organisations should move the Supreme Court to counter the claims.

‘Kunabis’ living in penury

While the demand for merger of Konkani speaking villages of Karwar taluk with Goa has stirred a hornet’s nest, the history clearly shows that some of the border villages had been totally neglected for decades by the rulers.

The demand as put forth by two Konkani outfits prompts one to debate what could be the basis for the such a demand. It is an undisputed opinion that border taluks have remained neglected.

In case of Joida taluk, the apathy is well reflected in the poor living conditions of the people. Joida has become infamous for the backwardness in the entire State.

The Kunabi community forms one third of the population in Joida taluk. This tribal community leads an isolated life detatched from others. It is said that the Kunabis are originally from Goa. Agriculture is the main occupation of Kunabis.

Many a times, their harvest is destroyed by wild animals. As such, majority of Kunabi families have been migrating to Goa or neighbouring villages as agriculture labourers. The fact that only 3 per cent of their population had studied upto SSLC, clearly reflects the development status of the Kunabis.

Statistics reveal that only 12 per cent of the Kunabis have studied upto fourth standard, nearly 6 per cent upto seventh standard and only 3 per cent upto SSLC. Number of graduates in the community is a handful. Today they need schools, motorable roads, electricity and health care.

ice industry facing closure; seeks Govt. help

The ice manufacturing industry in Kerala was beset with severe problems and would face closure unless the government extends help, the state Ice Manufacturers Association, said today.

T G R Shenoi, president, Kerala State Ice-Manufacturers Association (KSIMA), told reporters here that only 486 of the 1,200 ice factories were now functioning in the state as the industry was facing tough times.

The fifth annual conference of the association was held at Aroor in Alappuzha district on July 14.

Call to help disabled kids

MANGALORE: The spirited dance performance to the Kannada number, �Nagarehole Ammale..�, by special children moistened many eyes. The poignant event marked the inauguration of a scheme for special children by Samarth Centre run by Shree Ganesha Seva Trust for Exceptional Persons, on Sunday.

IGP (Western Range) A M Prasad, who presided over the inaugural function on the institution premises, reminded the gathering that running special homes was not that easy. It requires patience and great efforts to make these special children part of the society.

Bangalore-based Century Group managing director P Dayananda Pai, inaugurating the centre, said there were many positive things to imbibe from the US.

In America students are motivated to spend a day looking after mentally challenged children. Pai made public his decision to donate Rs 10 lakh to Samarth. His next decision to contribute Rs 5,000 every month was greeted with thunderous applause.

Stir against Konkani Manch

Members of Karunada Hitarakshana vedika staged a protest in Tumkur on Thursday condemning the efforts of the Konkani Manch to integrate the Konkani speaking areas into Goa....

Members of Karunada Hitarakshana vedika staged a protest in Tumkur on Thursday condemning the efforts of the Konkani Manch to integrate the konkani speaking areas into Goa.
The members were agitating against the the Konkani manch’s appeal to the Apex Court. They charged that the Manch was eyeing the Konkani speaking areas around Karwar and therefore had taken this step.They asked the Goan people to maintain friendly relations with neighbouring states including Karnataka as their financial well being depended on it. They also said that the Goan Government was making using of the Konakani Manch for their personal gains and asked the goan people not to fall prey to this coercion.
They also added that the Goan government should respond to the reality of the situation and warned that the government would face increased agitation by the vedike, should they remain firm on their demand.
The protest that began from Townhall was led by the State president of the Vedike M Saifulla and vice president Mallasandra Rajanna. Among the others who were present included State General secretary Jayanna, District chief T R Siddaraju, P Ganagraju, B Chandrababu and others.

Striking all the right chords...

Melody is second nature to her. Her rich voice so impressed Pt Vishwa Mohan Bhatt that he agreed to teach her the minute he heard her sing.

“Music, the greatest good that mortals know;
And all of heaven we know below.”
Mahalakshmi Shenoy, a young musical prodigy from Karkala in Udupi district, knows the path to this ‘great good’. A 20-year-old ambitious talent, Ms Shenoy has already carved a niche for herself in Hindustani classical music in and outside Karnataka, and has traced new avenues in Indian music.

A section of the society that often expresses apprehension over the undesirable tastes of the present day younger generation, may find a ray of hope in the exceptional example of Ms Shenoy, who recently won the prestigious ‘Surmani’ national award of Mumbai’s Sursingar Samsad for her scintillating performance in its ‘Kal ke Kalakar’ convention.

As stated by one Elgar Sir Edward, “there is music in the air”. But in Mahalakshmi’s case, there is music in her very breath. Beginning from her first chant of a bhajan at a tender age of three to the moment of winning the Surmani title, her saga of success is ever inspiring and mesmerising.

It was in fact Carnatic music which Ms Shenoy embraced in the initial stage. At an early age of five, she was brought into a formal course of practice under the able guidance of Vidwan Vyasakrishna Upadhyaya of Karkala, who groomed her continuously for five years. However, the girl’s shift from Carnatic to Hindustani is an interesting story.

“Veena maestro Pandit Vishwamohan Bhatt had a Mohan Veena concert in our home-town in 1997. Our 10-year-old daughter was deeply impressed by the concert and as soon as she returned home she started insisting that she will continue learning music, but in the Hindustani genre,” recalls Ms Shenoy’s father Dr Prakash Shenoy, a cardiologist by profession.

Though Vidwan B Yogish Baliga laid a base for her Hindustani venture, the girl was fortunate to become the disciple of her inspirer Pandit Vishwamohan Bhatt himself. The maestro was so moved by her rich voice that he accepted her as his disciple in 2000, which naturally became a catalyst for her enterprising dream.

At present, she is pursuing Sangeeta Visharada under Pandit Ramarao Nayak in Goa, besides obtaining expertise in ‘Gayaki’ of both Kirana and Gwalior gharanas.
As a student of Alva’s College in Moodabidri, Ms Shenoy emerged as the winner in the Hindustani classical contest during the National-level Youth Festival (Chennai, 2007) and in the inter-varsity South Zone Youth Festival (Tamil Nadu 2006). Sangeeta Seva Samiti of Soraba has honoured her with the ‘Young Artiste of the State’ award for 2006, while she has also received Udupi District Rajyotsava Award (2006) and Balapratibha Award from Raga Taranga (2000).

Ms Shenoy already has three albums in her kit- ‘Guru Guna Gana’ (Konkani, 2003), ‘Eddu Baro Ranga’ (Kannada, 2005) and a classical CD in Raag Madhuvanthi and Chandrakauns (2004). She has given over 250 performances in various places across the State and outside in the past six years.

“Begum Pervin Sultana is my role model. I have been listening to her voice since my childhood,” she says, and identifies Bhinna Shadja (Kaushik) as her favourite Raga. For this young talent, music is the mother of all classical genres. Her strengths are her in-depth treatment of Madhuvanthi, a well-cultivated and emotionally charged melodious voice and total command over singing.

Moreover, Ms Shenoy’s eight years of rigorous training in Bharatanatyam has influenced her own interpretation of ‘navarasas’. Her command over aalapa is magnificent. “After silence, that which comes nearest to expressing the inexpressible is music.” Ms Shenoy has a clear-cut understanding of this concept. “I don’t think the audience for a concert should have a thorough knowledge of music. All they need is a simple heart to enjoy melody and rhythm,” she feels.

KRV demands merger of Goa with K’taka

The ongoing row over the assault on the Goa Konkani Rajya Ekikakaran Manch (GKREM) Convener Asha Palankar in Karwar has taken a new twist, with Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV) State President T A Narayan Gouda demanding the merger of Goa with Karnataka.
He was addressing a protest rally in Karwar on thursday, which demanded the ban on the Goa Konkani Rajya Ekikakaran Manch (GKREM) and the immediate arrest of its convener Asha Palankar.
The GKREM has been demanding the merger of three talukas — Karwar, Joida and Haliyal — of Karnataka with Goa.
KRV mmbers of from different parts Bangalore, Mangalore, Belgaum, Davangere and Shimoga took part in the protest rally, which was to begin at 11 am, but was postponed to 3.30 pm due to the poor response from activists.
“Karwar, Joida and Haliyal belong to Karnataka and not a single inch of these places will be given to Goa. Instead, we demand merger of Goa with Karnataka State,” Narayan Gouda said.
He urged the Karnataka government to ban the GKREM and Karwar Gomantak Manch and arrest leaders of both the associations who are trying to poison the minds of people and divide the area on linguistic lines.
They also submitted the memorandum through the deputy commissioner in this connection. A S Nirvaneppa, who received the memorandum on behalf of the deputy commissioner promised to forward the matter to the government.Incidentally, the lack of support from the people of Karwar to the protest march sent the message that they did not echo the sentiments of the KRV.

HMT sees watch biz revival on trendy launches

Bangalore-based Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT) plans to launch a range of trendy, new-generation watches after revamping its marketing set-up and roping in new dealers this year.

"We are getting certain good designs of international quality. We will be introducing new type of watches. Marketing has to be revamped. New dealers will have to be appointed," A V Kamat, CMD, HMT told PTI.

He said the government is expected to approve the revival plan for its watches business soon.

"HMT has a good brand image. We are not encashing it because of financial constraints. Once they are overcome and the plan is approved, we will go to the market with a new brand of watches," Kamat said.

HMT is closely watching the entry of trendy and new generation watches in the marketplace.

"We are going in a big way in regard to advertising campaign, and also position our brand of watches," he said.

Kamat said today's youth wants different type of watches, which are not of the conventional sort. "We are aware of that. We will be launching new models for the youth because that's an upcoming market."

The new range of watches would be available in the price range of Rs 500 to Rs 2500, he said.

B.Tech exam results announced

KOCHI: Students of the School of Engineering (SOE) and Model Engineering College (MEC) at Thrikkakara cornered majority of the ranks in the B.Tech. examinations conducted by the Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat), the results of which were announced here on Friday.

In the Civil Engineering course, students of the School of Engineering bagged the first three ranks. Shishir Suman came first followed by Indhu P. Varghese and Vimal Jose.

Kavita Prasad of School of Engineering bagged the first rank in the Computer Science and Engineering programme. Chris Elsa Kurian of Model Engineering College won the second rank. Model Engineering College walked away with top honours in the Electronics and Biomedical Engineering course. N. G. Sreelakshmi Shenoi won the first rank. K. Divya bagged the second rank while Sambhavi. N emerged third. Deepa Chandran of College of Engineering, Perumon, bagged the first rank in the Electronics and Communication Engineering course. Femitha P.S. and Jyothi P won the second and third ranks respectively. Divya Vijay of College of Engineering, Perumon, won the first rank in the Electrical and Electronics Engineering course. Bhavana Menon and Umayal P.L. of School of Engineering bagged the second and third ranks.

Chithra S. Kurup of College of Engineering, Kidangoor, won the first rank in the Electronics and Instrumentation Engineering programme.

Infighting hits oldest consumer body

The Consumer Guidance Society of India (CGSI) is caught in a row that threatens to jeopardise the very purpose of one of the country’s oldest consumer protection bodies. Five leading members of the organisation in a notice to the Charity Commissioner have complained of serious irregularities and illegalities in the society’s functioning. In fact, the concerned members have even asked the charity commissioner to take over the organisation, as they allege the managing committee (MC) members, including the honorary general secretary M S Kamath, are working against consumers’ interests.
According to the members, “it is completely in conflict of consumer interest” that Kamath, who has been on the panel of various insurance companies, should regularly appear for them in the various consumer forums against the aggrieved consumer themselves.

“So, we want the charity commissioner to act suo motu under Section 41 (D) of the Bombay Public Trust Act and take over the CGSI management and all its records,” said Indrani Malkani, a member.

Another managing committee member and the former chairman of the trust, AR Shenoy, was also found to be the proprietor of a small business firm by the name M/s S S Labs, which makes him ineligible to be an MC member.

“Although Shenoy has resigned as chairman, he continues to be on the MC. Both Kamath and Shenoy have behaved against the CGSI’s constitution. When our resolutions against the two were constantly ignored, we had no option but to approach the charity commissioner,” said Krishna Basrur, another member.

Incidentally, Shenoy, who had co-opted Kamath into CGSI in 2004 against the wishes of the many members, is himself calling for the latter’s head after the two fell out. “We could not take action against Kamath in the past since there was no evidence against him. But now, a Right to Information plea filed with the State Consumer Redressal Commission shows that he has represented service providers against consumers in at least 24 cases,” said Shenoy.

The notice to the charity commissioner also points out the arbitrary functioning of the CGSI in which Kamath and A R Shenoy recruited 150 members on the eve of MC elections last year without proper scrutiny of papers and allowed to vote and ensure Kamath’s victory.

This, while many members wanted the polls postponed. E Chandran, the former CGSI vice-chairman who chaired the annual general body meeting, said, “From the hooligan behaviour of the crowd it was evident that the election conducted was not for an NGO with a cause but for vested interests.” Soon after Kamath’s win, the MC passed a resolution supporting his work of aligning with the service providers.

However, a defiant Kamath told DNA that a motivated campaign against him was being waged by a section of advocates who, thanks to him, had lost cases in the consumer forum.

“This cartel of advocates by not appearing in court has led to a huge backlog of cases. I stand only for insurance cases where my opinion is sought as a medico-legal expert. Is weeding out bogus claims anti-consumerism?” he asked. Claiming having abdicated all legal briefs after assuming the general secretary office, Kamath said he was, in fact, cleaning up the CGSI by taking people who work rather than ‘socialise’.

The CGSI’s trustees on their part feel that too much damage has already been caused to a great institution. “I sincerely hope the charity commissioner intervenes to save an important organisation of the country,” said J B D’Souza, trustee and former municipal commissioner.

GKREM convenor attacked by pro-Kannada activists

Members of Kannada Rakshana Vedike (KRV) of Bangalore manhandled convener of Goa Konkani Rajya Ekikaran Manch (GKREM) Asha Palankar and her husband at Kajubag-Karwar on Tuesday.
According to reports, the Palankars — who have been spearheading the movement to merge three talukas of Karwar, Joida and Haliyal in Karnataka with Goa — were going to the market, when the rains forced them to take shelter at the Mahasati Hall in Kajubag.
At that moment, KRV members rushed into the compound and threw eggs on the Palankars, besides manhandling them. Incidentally, KRV State President Praveen Shetty along with 60 members had come to Karwar on Monday itself.
When both tried to move to the nearby hospital, KRV activists tried to block them by shouting pro-Kannada slogans.
Police rushed to the spot and escorted the Palankars to the government hospital for treatment. The KRV activists were arrested under Section 355 IPC and were later released on bail.
Later speaking to Herald, Asha Palankar claimed that the attack was pre-planned, since a local Kannada newspaper reporter was already ready to shoot the incident.
“It is unbelievable that the police was unaware of the incident. In fact, these people are protected by the police and it is very difficult for people of the disputed border areas to live peacefully in Karnataka,” Asha said.
She accused the KRV activists of manhandling then Belgaum Mayor Vijay More in Bangalore.
“We have never uttered anything against Kannada or the Kannada people. On the lines of a linguistic state, we natives of Karwar-Joida-Haliyal are demanding merger with Goa. It is our fundamental right and we have approached the Supreme Court for justice,” said Ancy.
She claimed that Tuesday’s incident was evidence to prove Karnataka government’s repressive measures on the Konkani speaking people of this region.
“We will not get discouraged by such threats and acts of Kannadigas. On the contrary, I thank them because this incident will make our agitation more strong, since it will develop stronger bonds among Konkani speaking people,” Palankar added.
Meanwhile, Congress leader Margaret Alva has rejected GKREM’s demand for the merger of three talukas of Uttara Kannada as “absurd”.
Speaking to the Deccan Herald, Alva — the Congress in-charge of Goa — said it was “impossible to form states in India on the basis of language and religion. Such efforts would lead to fragmentation of India.”
Alva criticised the Manch for raking up such issues, instead of focusing on development of Uttar Kannada district. “The Goa government has no intention to seek the merger of these talukas,” Alva was quoted in the report.

Biography released

Kannada cine actor Shivrajkumar’s biography “Muthurajana Muthu” might have come a bit too soon. But the book, released here on Tuesday by Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, had a wealth of touching memories about Kumar’s late matinee idol father Rajkumar and Shivrajkumar’s own philosophical musings.

As litterateur Baragur Ramachandrappa analysed the book for a motley group of film artistes, critics, mediapersons and the general public here, Shivrajkumar emerged beyond his stereotypical image of a cinematic hero. His notes about his father’s meteoric rise to stardom despite an education that did not go beyond third standard gave the biography more depth.

Shivrajkumar’s observation that knowledge of letters did not lead to wisdom and vice-versa was culled out of the book by Mr. Ramachandrappa to laud the actor’s insi-ghtful reading of mankind.

The actor had taken his father’s life to illustrate his point.

Although the book was Shivrajkumar’s own, the words were by Sadashiva Shenoy. Mr. Ramachandrappa explained how Mr. Shenoy was just apt to record Kumar’s life without resorting to sensationalism or glorification. Biographies, he explained, need not put everything on record.

In his book, Shivrajkumar was frank enough to admit that he had left out many things. But whatever was included was completely true, noted Mr. Ramachandrappa.

The Chief Minister dubbed Shivrajkumar as the right inheritor of Dr. Rajkumar’s legacy, before acknowledging the socially relevant films of the late matinee idol as the inspiration behind his people-friendly initiatives such as the Janata Darshan.

Govind Pai college is eligible for Central aid

The name of Manjeshwara Govinda Pai Memorial Government college has been included in the list of colleges prepared under section 2(F) & 12(b) of the University Grants Commission Act, the college sources said.

After accepting the documents submitted by the college, OGC undersecretary Urmil Gulati in her directive stated that the name of the Manjeshwara Govinda Pai College has been included in the list. The College is now eligible to receive central assistance in terms of the rules framed under section 12 –b of UGC Act 1956.

“We are very happy to know that our college which has celebrated its 25 th anniversary has been included in the UGCs2(f) 12 (B) list. After a long time with all efforts we acquired this position. We are also preparing for NAAC acreditation,” said College Principal Pavithran.

The college is offering courses like BA (Kannadaand Travel & Tourism), BSc (Statistics with Computer Science), BCom (Co-operative), MCom, MTA (Master of Tourism Administration) and MSc (Statistics) are expected to be started soon. College has secured four ranks in recently published results of BA examinations-2007 (Kannur University).

No merger of Konkani-speaking villages with Goa

Goa Chief Minister Digambar Kamat on Monday clarified that the Goa government would not approve the demand of the Goa Konkani Rajya Ekikaran Manch and Samyukta Gomanthaka Manch, the two Konkani organisations which have launched an agitation demanding the merger of Konkani-speaking villages Joida and Haliyal with Goa.

"We do not encourage such activities," he told mediapersons on Monday. He was returning to Goa with his family, after visiting Shirdi in Maharashtra. "The agitation does not have the backing of the Goans. I do notknow anyone from these organisations or why they want to merge these areas with Goa," Kamat said.

Kamat also said that these agitators neither met him nor discussed the issue with him. "If they have any problems, let them discuss it with the authorities," he said.

Concentrate on unity for development of Konkani language

The Konkani speaking population should concentrate on unity for the development of the language, said Chairman of Prasarbharathi M V Kamath.

Speaking at the Foundation Day function of All India Konkani Parishad here on Sunday, he said that parents should start teaching Konkani to their children at a very tender age and that the Konkani Sahitya Academy which has been in existence for 15 years, should promote the language by trying to implement its teaching in schools.

Mr Kamath urged to bring in uniformity in the speaking style and pronunciation among the Konkani speakers in different parts of South India.

Dr TMA Pai Foundation Chairman K K Pai stressed on the need of a central secretariat in Goa for the promotion of the language.

He also said that it would be better if Devanagari script is adopted as the common script for Konkani by the speakers in various states.

Stating that Konkani grew and developed without government help, Mr Pai said that the Konkanis have made relevant contributions in various walks of life including other languages.

Episcopal Vicar of Udupi Rev Fr Baptist Menezes was the chief guest on the occasion. In his address, he emphasised the need to instill a love for the language in the younger generation.

President of the Parishad Paul Moras, Executive President Sadanand Kanekar, General Secretary Gokuldas Prabhu, Chancellor of Manipal University Dr Ramdas Pai and Secretary of Dr TMA Pai Foundation H V Kamath along with representatives of the Konkani speaking people from Karnataka, Goa and Kerala were present on the occasion.

Government to foil Goa bid to merge taluks

Home Minister M P Prakash on Friday said that the government would take all necessary legal steps to foil the attempts of Goa Konkani State Unification Munch (GKSUM) and United Gomantak Munch (UGM) to merge some of the state�s taluks into Goa.

Replying to a calling attention motion moved by BJP member Mukhyamantri Chandru in the legislative council, Prakash said the demand for inclusion of some of the taluks of the state into Goa was a mischievous effort and some people were doing it to satisfy their political ambitions.

He said that the GKSUM had filed an interlocutory petition before the Supreme Court requesting it to make a party to the original suit filed by the Maharashtra demanding inclusion of Belgaum and other places into its territory.

The state government had already filed an objection before the Supreme Court contesting the GKSUM�s locus standi to file an interlocutory application,� he added.

Earlier, making preliminary submission while moving calling attention Chandru cautioned the government to be vigilant on the activities of these organisations as they were preparing grounds to prove their point in the court.

The members were organising secret meetings in Karwar and surrounding places to elicit opinion of the people in their favour, he added.

Opposition leader H K Patil said that the GKUSM and UGM had no support in Karwar, Joida and Haliyal and they had intensified their efforts keeping an eye on ensuing urbal local body elections.

Moreover, the demand by these organisations was not correlated with the feelings of the people of these taluks.

�Therefore one should not take these efforts seriously,� he added.

Bureaucratic interference seen in chitrakala parishat affairs

Recognition: U. Ramesh Rao (left) and N. Marishamachar are all smiles after receiving the G.S. Shenoy Memorial Award in Bangalore on Sunday.

The Chairman of Central Administrative Reforms Committee M. Veerappa Moily on Sunday claimed that the Karnataka Chitrakala Parishat was on the path of decay because of bureaucratic interference.
However, the Principal Secretary to Government, Information, Publicity and Tourism, I.M. Vittal Murthy, refuted the charges saying it was due to political interference. The occasion was presentation of G.S. Shenoy Memorial awards organised by G.S. Shenoy Art Foundation here. Speaking after presenting the awards, Mr. Moily said bureaucratic interference should be stopped for the benefit of the parishat. Otherwise, it would be difficult to build an institution such as this one, he said.

Speaking further, Mr. Moily regretted the recent attacks on art and artists. Though artists such as M.F. Hussain provided a place in the international level for Indian art, they are being attacked, he regretted. He described the Late Shenoy as a fighter for the cause of art. Presiding over the presentation function, Mr. Vittal Murthy said the parishat’s functioning has been affected due to political interference while the bureaucracy was being unnecessarily blamed.
The award for 2006 was presented to Marishamachar and for 2007 to U. Ramesh Rao.

Mansion is necessary for Konkani Parishad

Senior Konkani activists, litérateurs has given opinion that there is necessary of the mansion (Secretariat) to All India Konkani Parishad in central level for the evolution of Konkani language.

In the 68th foundation celebration of the Parishad in new Ravindra Mantap of Udupi MGM college, organised by All India and Dr TMA Pai foundation of Manipal, President of foundation KK Pai told establish of mansion is propriety because there is a respect to the Konkani as a authentic language and suggested that to reserving of separate fund for improvement of language.

It was decided matter that of the Konkani script in 1939.Local script is using in Kerala, Karnataka but in Goa Devanagari script is in use. KK Pai said that there is advantage to Konkani language if Devanagari script is in use. He explained the effort given by foundation for Konkani language institution to earn regardness of institutions of minorities.

Chief guest Episcopal Vikar Reverent father Baptist Meneges praised about Konkani language and told that Konkanigas has self-respect about language. He expressed his sadness about ignorance of mother tongue from youth people.

President of Parishad Paul Moras told that there is a necessary of discussion on use of single script to Konkani language, senior literateurs should try for this. President of Prasar Bharati, former president of Parishad Dr M V Kamath said that through organisation, single script and pronunciation should serve their duties.

President of Manipal University Dr Ramdas Pai,Working president Sadananda Kanekar,Chief Secretary Gokul Das were present.

Editors of Konkani papers of undivided Dakshina Kannada, former president of Parishad, Chief of Konkani group institutions were falicitate. Representatives from Goa, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala were arrive in this occasion.

Army to plant one lakh saplings in Gujarat

In the run-up to the fourth Military World Games (MWG) to be held in Hyderabad, the Indian Army in Gujarat has embarked upon a sapling plantation drive during which about 1 lakh saplings will be planted in all its military stations located in the state.

These saplings will be planted in Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Jamnagar, Bhuj and Dhangadhra military stations, Major General PG Kamath said at a sapling plantation drive organised at the military station here last evening.

The Gujarat Forest Department will supply the Army with all the saplings needed for the week-long drive, Kamath added.

Personnel from Army, Navy and Air Force, NCC cadets and school children are expected to take part in this programme.

In the run-up to the military games, Army has planned this drive across the country.

Teachers are unsung heroes

Principal of Dr TMA Pai College of Education Mahabaleshwara Rao said that the teachers need extrinsic and intrinsic motivation to perform well in his profession and keep up the spirits, but they are not even paid well by the government.

Teachers who do well under testing conditions are unsung heroes, said Principal of Dr TMA Pai College of Education Mahabaleshwara Rao.

Delivering the keynote address at the Educational Conference and Honouring Ceremony organised by the DK District Pre-university College Principals’ Association here on Tuesday, he said that the teachers need extrinsic and intrinsic motivation to perform well in his profession and keep up the spirits, but they are not even paid well by the government.

Speaking on the rising incapability of the teaching lot, he said that most of them do not even know the basics.
Whatever the Guru says was ‘Vedavakya’ for the students at one time. Now they have many other ways of procuring knowledge and hence it is a hard task for the teachers to live up to their expectations. Only hardworking and knowledgeable teachers can demand respect from their students, Mr Rao said and stressed the need for refresher courses to teachers.

Flaying the pressure exerted on II PUC students by parents and others, he said that they have ceased to be human beings, but machines, due to the lack of entertainment and extracurricular activities in their life. He advised the students not to neglect language and literature, as you need a good command over them for success. Citing the example of President A P J Abdul Kalam, he said that Kalam is revered not just because he is a good scientist, but also because of his excellent command over language, literature and social issues. He appreciated VTU’s move to include Communication English in the curriculum. He also appreciated the Tamil Nadu government for stopping the entrance system for medicine and engineering and demanded the same in Karnataka.

Stressing the need of adolescent education and career guidance in the colleges, he said that adolescent education is not sex education as is prorogated by some people.

It includes way to solve problems that usually the adolescent people face, like hopelessness, helplessness and uselessness. Speaking of the rising suicide tendency among the adolescent, he said that his generation was emotionally stronger and used to express their feelings in a positive way. He concluded that the youngsters of today need professional and vocational skills along with guidance to develop inter personal relations and empathy.

President of the Association Chandrakala Nandavar delivered the presidential address. Meritorious students of II PUC-2007, heads of institutions with 100 per cent results and retired members were honoured on the occasion. Vice President of the Association Fr Lawrence D’Souza, Secretary P P Joseph and Joint Secretary Dr Ismail were present on the occasion.

Counsellor from KMC Attavar Dr Elizabeth Daniel and Milagres PU college Correspondent Fr Walter D’Mello were chief guests in the post lunch sessions.

We’re agitating for Konkani’s sake: GKREM

The ‘Goa Konkani Rajya Ekikaran Manch’ (GKREM) has insisted that its agitation for the merger of Karwar, Supa and Haliyal with Goa is not against Kannada or the Kannada speaking people, but to preserve and conserve Konkani culture and the Konkani language.

Interacting with reporters at Sadashivgad, GKREM Convenor Asha Palankar stated that they have filed an interim appeal in the Supreme Court to deny Maharashtra’s claim on Belgaum, Nippani, Karwar, Haliyal and Supa.
Palankar said that in the Justice Mahajan report, the natives of Karwar, Supa and Haliyal were referred to as Konkani speaking and hence, the question of merger with Maharashtra did not arise and there was no Konkani State at that time.
“Fortunately today, we have Goa as a Konkani State adjoining these areas. Hence, our claim for merger is legitimate,” she said.
Replying to a query, Palankar said that since 1956 they are forced to stay in Karnataka and since then, they have been totally neglected by the Karnataka government.
“This is why we want to separate ourselves from Karnataka. Our agitation is not new as claimed by some Kannada newspapers. It exists from 1956 when Goa got the status of independent State. Since then, we have requested the Central Government to merge this Konkani speaking belt with Goa,” Palankar said.
More than 100 Konkani speaking people also attended.

Datar holds meeting on merger of taluks

BANGALORE: Chairman of Legal Advisory Committee to the State Government and senior advocate H B Datar held a meeting on Friday to discuss the consequences of the case coming before the Supreme Court about the proposal to merge three taluks of Uttara Kannada district with Goa.

The case filed by a private organisation, seeking direction from the Karnataka Government to merge Konkani-dominant Karwar, Haliyal and Joida taluks into Goa, is expected to come before the SC in the second week of July.

He met the legal luminaries at his residence on Friday night.

Former chief justice of India M N Venkatachalaiah, former chief justice of Kerala V S Malimath, Law Secretary to Karnataka B S Reddy and Advocate General of Karnataka Uday Holla attended the meeting.

Sunil Shanbag's special moment

Veteran director Sunil Shanbag speaks about his return to the city, theatre group and latest play.

Is this your first visit to the city?

"In those days I was an actor and came down to Kolkata with Satyadev Dubey during the 1980s with a play. But this is the first time that I am here with my directorial venture and I was always looking forward to this visit. Performing in Kolkata was something I always wanted. This play has been running for one-and-a-half years now and coming to Kolkata with the play was very special."

Cotton 56 Polyester 84 is a Mumbai specific play. How do you think the audience here will be able to relate to it?

I think the play is one to which an audience in Mumbai or Kolkata or Indore or Nagpur will be able to relate to. The play is more about the working class tradition and the universality gets across to one and all. The play at face value maybe specific to the Girni workers of Mumbai, but it reflects what's happening in our society. All the characters are flesh and blood ones and this pulls the audience to them immediately.

Why did you choose the backdrop of the textile mills?

The world of industry and commerce is a very strange one. It keeps sucking out everything from the people and once it's done, people are discarded like banana peels. It's an irony that few people choose to notice.

You are known to be a director who always chooses to stick to the original
text without too many modifications . Don't you want to experiment?

If adding something of my own to a text is experimenting, then I'm better off without it. I choose a text because I like it, then where does the question of modifying it in any way come? As a director, I always want the text to speak on my behalf.

When did Theatre Arpana come into existence?

Way back in 1984 some like-minded people thought it was high time to come up with an independent identity. Till then we were all a part of the Satyadev Dubey gharana.

You are also a documentary filmmaker . How did you get started in that medium?

When Doordarshan was the only channel, there was possibility for a lot of fiction work but with the advent of satellite channels, this thing has waned down. The subject for my documentaries were very similar to that of my plays, they were mostly off mainstream.

Saraswat Ratna award for K K Pai

Manipal, Dr T M A Pai trust’s President and the patriarch of banking sector, K K Pai said that he is still not tired at this old age. He said that he is going to turn 87 on June 26th and he is satisfied with his life.

He said that he has experienced both the sweet and sour moments of life and he considers everyday as a new life. He was honoured by various associations and organisations when he visited Mumbai recently.

All India Saraswat Cultural Organisation has honoured him with Saraswat Ratna award for being the ambassador of Saraswat culture.

Mumbai’s Konkani Triveni Kala Sangam has also honoured K K Pai for his effort to get recognition for Konkani language and its development.

R S Co-operative bank, Syndicate Bank’s Port and Homi Street branches, Saraswati Mandir High School, Mahim, Sri Ram Mandir, Vadala, Sri Valkeshwar Mutt have honoured K K Pai.

Goa not ready for merger of border taluks..

Karwar: "It is like making mountain out of a molehill, it is just media hype, nothing else," this is how the public here have been reacting to the controversy created by Goa Konkani Rajya Ekikarana Munch and Samyukta Gomantaka Munch with their campaign for merger of border taluks of Karwar, Joida and Haliyal with Goa.

When a public debate on the issue was arranged here on Wednesday, only two representatives of these two forums , Asha Palankar, the president of Goa Konkani Rajya Ekikarana Munch and her spouse, Prakash Palankar, the executive member of the Munch attended it. The efforts of these two get others to the munch through phone failed vindicating the assertion of the others who participated in the debate that munch was a two-member forum only.

The theory presented by the couple that Konkani speaking people want to be part of Goa and the Kadambas, who ruled Kannada state from Banavasi were originally from Goa was out rightly rejected by the pro Kannada activists who have participated in the debate in large number.

They pointed out that it was Konkani speaking people only who argued before the Mahajan Commission that these border taluks should be Karnataka only. They argued that majority of Konkani speaking people opposed the merger move. They alleged that the couple had been spearheading the campaign for merger only for personal gains. In fact the controversy was kicked off a few months ago when a senior BJP leader of the district, S R Pikle, in a meeting held at Sadashivgad, spoke in favour of merger.

It may be noted that Asha Palankar, one time municipal councilor, is also a BJP activist. However the Karwar taluk unit of the BJP has distanced itself from that statements made by Pikle and Palankar in respect of merger. Pikle withdrew his statement later on by saying that he was quoted out of context. BJP MLA, Gangadhar Bhat, too raised the issue in the Assembly stating that the people of Joida taluk were keen for merger with Goa. Later he clarified that he had made the statement to draw the attention of the government for the immediate need to develop the backward taluk of Joida.

According to the functionaries of Karwar unit of BJP, Manohar Parikkar, the BJP leader and also former chief minister of Goa, had advised them not to enter into controversy. He had made it clear that though the people of the three border taluks were prepared to be part of Goa, Goa would not be ready for the inclusion of these taluks in its territory.

Under the circumstances the right way for the government is to understand the pulse of the people and give greater attention for the development of the border areas, it is argued.