Goa CM Pramod Sawant Inaugurates World Konkani Music Convention In Mangaluru

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant inaugurated the first World Konkani Music Mega Convention in Mangaluru on November 3, praising the Konkani-speaking community for its efforts in preserving and promoting the language.

Organised by cultural organisation Mandd Sobhann as part of its 40th anniversary celebrations, the 13-day convention is being held at Town Hall, Mangaluru, from November 3 to 15. The event aims to bring together Konkani-speaking communities from across the world and showcase the region’s musical and cultural heritage.

Addressing the gathering, Sawant acknowledged the efforts of the Mangaluru community in keeping Konkani alive despite limited institutional support. He noted that while Konkani enjoys official language status and government support in Goa, its continued presence in coastal Karnataka reflects the dedication of the community.

He also highlighted the cultural connections between Goa and coastal Karnataka, adding that geographical boundaries do not diminish their shared language, traditions and way of life. Sawant said the Goa government would consider Konkani achievers from outside the state for its official awards.

A major highlight of the convention is a Guinness World Records title attempt for the longest singing marathon by multiple singers. The initiative, titled ‘Konko’nni Niro’nto’ri – So’msar So’raso’ri’, will feature a continuous singing programme lasting 12 days, 12 hours and 12 minutes, from November 3 to November 15.

The marathon is expected to bring together more than 6,700 singers across 300 teams, performing over 4,500 Konkani songs representing different dialects and musical traditions. Participants are expected from India and countries including Australia, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar. The organisers have planned the performances without repeating singers or songs.

The convention is dedicated to the memory of late Eric Ozario, founder of Mandd Sobhann, whose contribution to Konkani music and cultural preservation remains central to the organisation’s work.

The programme also includes academic seminars, cultural exhibitions, a Hall of Fame, traditional Konkani cuisine and the World Konkani Musical Excellence Awards, which will recognise 12 senior musicians, including five posthumously. A special musical programme for children is also scheduled.

Through the convention, Mandd Sobhann aims to strengthen the global visibility of Konkani music while encouraging younger generations to remain connected with the language and its cultural roots.