Must preserve Konkani through platforms like tiatr: Tuenkar

NT Reporter Margao

The Tiatr Academy of Goa (TAG) announced the results of its 16th Konkani Kantaram Singing Competition ‘Kantarachem Daiz’ at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao, on Monday, with young and senior performers showcasing their vocal talent across duets, duos, trios, quartets and choral categories.

Navelim MLA and chief guest Ulhas Tuenkar said tiatr had contributed immensely to protecting Goa’s identity and language. “Days are not far when original Goans will be in the minority compared to outsiders, and hence we must preserve Konkani through platforms like tiatr. The government is committed to supporting tiatr, and we have recently extended full backing to secure the UNESCO heritage tag for it,” he said. Guest of honour and senior tiatrist Anthony San encouraged the younger generation to nurture their artistic talents while safeguarding the legacy of kantar, while singer Edwin D’Costa pledged support in composing new songs. TAG vice-president Marcos Gonsalves welcomed the gathering, urging youngsters to write and compose new Konkani kantaram with TAG’s full support.

In the junior category, winners included Daylon and Delphia Souza in the duet section, Naira Livia and Nyssa Gretchen Fernandes in the duo, and Nyssa Gretchen, Naira Livia and Nevan Agnelo Fernandes in the trio. Roshmet Cruz Fernandes and group won the quartet, while Abiel Borges and group topped the choral category. Fr Milagres Dias won best lyrics for ‘Goa Garbage Free’.In the senior category, Jonas Albert Regan Vaz and Anle Barbosa won the duet section, while Esther Joshua and Shayan Rodrigues bagged the duo. Aaron Rovin Dias, Lezio Rebelo and Priyanka Dias topped the trio, and Maria Estrocio and group secured the quartet. Cosia Oliveira and team won the choral prize, while Big Mac Mathew bagged best lyrics for ‘Gõyam Nokrio Nam’.