The Dalgado Konknni Akademi (DKA) commemorated the 112th birth anniversary of noted Roman Konkani writer Reginald Fernandes at St Anthony’s Church Hall in Siolim, bringing together literary enthusiasts, members of the local community and admirers of the novelist’s work.
The programme was attended by Michael Lobo, MLA of Calangute and Chairman of GSIDC, as chief guest. Also present were Salvador Fernandes, son of Reginald Fernandes; Fr Mario Carvalho, Assistant to the Parish Priest; Fr Myron Jeson Barreto, President of DKA; Agnelo Borim, Secretary of DKA; and Willy Goes, Treasurer of the academy.
During the event, DKA released a special publication combining two novels by Reginald Fernandes, Arabeska and Zorzorro, into a single volume. The book was released by chief guest Michael Lobo as part of the academy’s efforts to preserve and promote the works of the late writer.
Fausto V Da Costa, editor of Gulab magazine, presented an overview of the two novels. He explained that Arabeska and Zorzorro symbolically represent the first and last letters of the Roman alphabet.
According to Da Costa, Arabeska is a fantasy novel set in a kingdom ruled by women, where inhabitants enjoy exceptionally long lives under the reign of Queen Arabeska. Zorzorro tells the story of a young Goan orphan whose encounter with the mysterious Zorzorro leads him into an adventure that develops into a romance.
Addressing the gathering, Michael Lobo praised DKA’s efforts to preserve and promote Roman Konkani literature. He said he would support initiatives aimed at making the literary works of Reginald Fernandes more accessible and preserving the author’s legacy in his native village of Siolim.
Lobo also stressed the importance of making the novelist’s works available to a wider audience and expressed support for efforts promoting Roman Konkani literature.
In his presidential address, Fr Myron Jeson Barreto highlighted the need to protect and promote Roman Konkani literature and preserve a language that forms part of Goa’s cultural identity. He appealed to the chief guest to support initiatives seeking greater recognition for Roman Konkani within the framework of the Official Language Act and related literary activities.
The programme began with the garlanding of a portrait of Reginald Fernandes by the dignitaries. A musical tribute featuring songs composed by the novelist was presented by Anthony San, Lucy Pereira, Akishia Fernandes, Anora Pereira, Joyd Antao, Braz Fernandes and Antonet Fernandes.
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