Mangaluru, May 14, 2026: Konkani poetry collection “Chunyaso Phond” authored by senior journalist, “Charoli King” and multilingual writer Raymond D’Cunha Taccode was released with grandeur at the Press Club, Mangaluru, on Wednesday.
The poetry collection, published in Kannada and Devanagari scripts, was unveiled by NRI entrepreneur and philanthropist Michael Dsouza.
Speaking after releasing the book, Micheal Dsouza said that the “Micheal Dsouza Vision Konkani” (MDVK) project was started with the vision of encouraging budding writers and nurturing the Konkani mother tongue.
Recalling an emotional incident shared by a senior writer, he said, “A senior writer once told me that he had written many literary works, but none of them were published. He compared it to carrying a baby in the womb for nine months only for it to be stillborn. A writer’s efforts become meaningful only when the book is published and reaches readers successfully.”
He said the project was initiated to support such writers and provide them a platform to bring their literary works before society. He also appreciated Raymond D’Cunha Taccode for his immense contribution towards Konkani language, literature and culture, and lauded his achievements in journalism and writing.
Guest of honour Henry Mendonca said that Micheal Dsouza has become a great asset to Konkani literature through his support to writers and literary projects.
“Along with Chunyaso Phond, a total of 46 books have now been published under the MDVK project. Within the next five years, our mission of publishing 100 books under this initiative will be fulfilled,” he said.
He also invited aspiring writers to submit their final PDF copies to vissionkonkani@gmail.com or submit hard copies at the Rahul Advertisers office for consideration under the project. “This is a valuable opportunity for every Konkani writer,” he added.
Presiding over the programme, DK Working Journalist Association President, Pushparaj B.N. said, “Doing good without expecting anything in return is the true example set by Micheal Dsouza. A man may die, but literature never dies. Raymond D’Cunha has ensured that through his literary contributions.”
He further said, “The richest language in the world is silence. Literature and art possess the power to touch the human mind beyond the boundaries of language. In that path, Micheal Dsouza is carrying out remarkable work.”
Welcoming the gathering, Raymond D’Cunha Taccode said, “Providing sponsorship alone is not a great thing; ensuring that the support is used for the right purpose is more important. Even in my 60s, I have continued writing because of the encouragement and motivation from people around me.”
He also announced that the book, published in Kannada and Devanagari scripts, would soon be released in Goa as well.
During the programme, Micheal Dsouza was honoured by the dignitaries present on the dais.
Melvyn Rodrigues, Titus Noronha Committee members of MDVK and D K Working Journalists Association general secretary Rajesh Poojary were present on the occasion.
Senior journalist Bhaskar Rai Katta compered the programme, while Riana D’Cunha proposed the vote of thanks.