Mangaluru: Konkani Kutam Bahrain Award was conferred on Dr Gerald Pinto, popularly known as Jerry Pinto Niddodi, in a glittering ceremony held at St Sebastian Platinum Jubilee Hall, Bendore here on Thursday, 10th August, 2017.
Fr Melwyn Pinto Neerude presided over the programme, which had Dr Edward Nazareth as the chief guest. Local convener of Konkani Kutam, Richard Moras and committee member, Manu Bahrain were present on the dais.
Dr Gerald Pinto Niddodi thanked everyone who helped him to reach this level. His wife Marceline Pinto was also honoured for supporting him throughout his literary journey.
Dr Edward Nazareth said, “People are addicted to mobile phones and TV these days. They think that reading is not necessary as other media provides information. But they are wrong. Only reading can charge the creative ability of a person. And this activates the brain of a person. So nothing can substitute reading literature, as per studies and research. So I ask the people to cultivate the habit of reading at least for 10 minutes a day. You will realize the benefits of it yourself once you start reading.”
Fr Melwyn Pinto said, “There is a change in cultural habits of every person due to globalization and other factors. This applies to all communities in the world. There is a sea of change in the field of readers’ response to literature, since printing was introduced in 15th century till the advent of mobile phones. But literature is not everything of a culture and of a language. Konkani has survived till now and is growing which is seen by the way the young generation interacts in Konkani. But Konkani literature has to keep pace with the times.”
CGS Taccode read out the citation. Richard Moras welcomed the gatherings. Leslie Rego compered the programme. Coordinator Titus Noronha briefed about the programme and introduced Dr Nazareth.
Fr Stany B Lobo, Rector MIlagres Cathedral, Rev Dr Prakash Anil Castelino Campus director of MIlagres College, Fr Lancy Fernades the H M of Milagres English Medium School, Fr Rolwin Aranha Asst Parish Priest, Dr Vincent Alva the Principal and othr staff members, office bearers of Konkani Sangatam Udupi District were present.
