Mangaluru – The Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy, in collaboration with the Catholic Sabha Mangalore Pradesh (R.) Surathkal Unit, organized a workshop on Voviyo-Vers (traditional wedding songs) and Baall Geet (children’s songs) on 14th September 2025 at Sacred Heart Hall, Surathkal.

The event was presided over by Jochim Stany Alvares, President of the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy. In his introductory address, he said:

"Speak to your children at home in your mother tongue, and pray to God in your mother tongue. Then there is no doubt that the Konkani language will survive. The 'Ros' tradition is an integral part of the Christian community. In earlier times, relatives and villagers would gather and celebrate weddings for 6-7 days. But in recent times, the number of people singing Voviyo during Ros celebrations has decreased. This workshop was organized to create awareness about Voviyo. Everyone should take benefit from this initiative."

Jochim Stany Alvares inaugurated the workshop by breaking a coconut, following the Ros tradition. Fr. Austin Peter Peres, the parish priest of Sacred Heart Church, Surathkal, completed the ritual by squeezing out the coconut milk.

Speaking on the occasion, Fr. Peres said"Nowadays, we can still hear beautiful Voviyos, but traditional ones are slowly vanishing. We must continue our traditions. No matter the situation, we should not forget our identity. Konkani must always be a part of our speech, behavior, and expression."

The chief guest, Krishna Hegde, Group General Manager of MRPL, said "The Konkani language carries a rich and beautiful culture. We must preserve it, respect the language, and protect its heritage."

Other dignitaries present on stage included Lawrence D'Souza, President of Catholic Sabha Surathkal Zone, Olwin D'Souza, President of the Surathkal Unit, Janet D’Souza, Secretary of the Surathkal Unit, Russel Roche, Vice-President of Surathkal Church. 

Academy members Naveen Lobo and Ronald Crasta were also present. Local coordinator George Liguory delivered the vote of thanks. Veera Pinto compered the event.

The workshop was conducted by Hilda Moraes, James D'Souza, Reena D’Souza, and Veena Pereira. Participants took part enthusiastically.

At the concluding session, Santosh D’Souza, Central President of Catholic Sabha Mangalore Pradesh (R.), participated as the chief guest and said:

"The Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy is making efforts to preserve Konkani culture through this workshop. May this initiative be successful."

Academy member Ronald Crasta and Olwin D’Souza, President of Catholic Sabha Surathkal Unit, were also on stage. Certificates were distributed to the workshop participants by Santosh D'Souza.