Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: The Dalgado Konknni Akademi (DKA) conferred the Bonaventure D’Pietro Book Award on the book Dhage written by Fr. Roman Rodrigues during a programme that also featured a story writing workshop for participants.
Dr. Prakash Parienkar, Associate Professor and Vice Dean (Research), Discipline of Konkani at the Shenoi Goembab School of Languages and Literature, Goa University, attended the event as chief guest and resource person for the workshop.
Other dignitaries present included Fr. Myron Jeson Barreto, President of DKA; Anthony San Fernandes, Vice-President; Agnelo Borim, Secretary; and Willy Goes, Treasurer.
Rodrigues, a noted Konkani language expert and writer, was honoured for his book Dhage, a thought-provoking collection of essays exploring relationships, love and self-discovery. The book examines themes ranging from romantic relationships and family bonds to friendships and personal growth.
In his address, Parienkar praised Catholic community students who have completed their MA degrees at Goa University with distinction. He also highlighted the need for research and preservation of Romi Konkani literature.
“In the history of Romi Konkani literature, there is vast knowledge and wisdom that needs to be researched and preserved by scholars. This will help everyone understand the value of Romi Konkani literature,” he said.
During the workshop, Parienkar guided participants on story writing and stressed the importance of creativity and thematic clarity in storytelling. He encouraged aspiring writers to draw inspiration from emotional and meaningful experiences in daily life.
In his presidential address, Barreto referred to several prominent Romi Konkani writers who have contributed to the rich heritage of the language and urged the audience to follow in their footsteps to promote and protect this literary tradition.
He also recalled the contributions of Bonaventure D’Pietro, a renowned Konkani writer, novelist, musician and journalist after whom the award is named, saying the award should inspire writers to produce high-quality creative literature.
Barreto further noted that although Romi Konkani did not receive recognition under the Official Language Act of Goa, the language continues to hold significant cultural value and needs collective efforts to preserve and promote it.
DKA Secretary Borim welcomed the gathering, while Vice-President Fernandes proposed the vote of thanks. Sonia Gomes compered the programme, which was attended by several Romi Konkani promoters, teachers, students and members of DKA. The event concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.
