| 2009 Konkani Youth Convention | [9/4/2008 12:51:30 PM] |
| Chief Guest - Prakash Padukone's speech | [8/14/2008 7:41:44 PM] |
| Share your Sammelan Experience - Provide Feedback | [6/29/2008 10:59:09 AM] |
We sincerely want to thank you for being a part of
the “Awaken the Konkani in You” experience. The Santa Clara Convention Center
was buzzing with Konkani chatter for three days. 1307 delegates from all parts
of the world attended the convention. Most cherished was this opportunity to
meet friends and relatives. The Panchadik Lounge with backdrops from Mangalore,
Goa & Kumata was a perfect place for socializing.
The classical music
performance on July 3rd evening by Mahesh Kale captivated the audience. His
“Natya Sangeet” kept the listeners enthralled every second. He even sang a Goan
Konkani song composed by his guru, Pt. Jitendra Abisheki.
On July 4th, as
the clock struck nine, the Opening ceremony started with the Ganesha Vandana.
The melodious Konkani songs & lilting music that were woven together with
the cultural theme still keep ringing in our ears. Our chief guest Prakash
Padukone, youth keynote speaker Dr. Sumeeth Bhat and keynote speakers K V Kamath
& Jaya Row inspired the audience with their speeches. Seminar topics were
educational and well attended.
On July 5th, Konkani youth had a blast with
the “Konkani Idol” competition. Karaoke singing, held during the happy hour on
July 3rd & July 4th in the Dhingdo Lounge was quite a popular and successful
event. The plays, skits and dances in the regional programs were greatly
appreciated. The day’s programs culminated with the Closing ceremony which
presented various skits, dances and the “Bailatta” which reiterated the theme
and tried to “Awaken our Inner Konkani”. The executive committee was presented
in quite a unique fashion. They waltzed on the stage to a customized tune in
dark suits and swirling ball gowns.
Dining hall arrangements were another
highlight of this convention. All delegates enjoyed delicious and authentic
Konkani food in one seating during each meal. The festivities finally ended with
a banquet & joyous dancing on July 5th. Konkani people of all ages moved
across the dance floor to popular Hindi tunes
The Organizing Committee
feels quite gratified that the Sammelan met the expectations of the attending
delegates. We really appreciate and acknowledge the incredible sacrifices and
efforts of the volunteer teams over the past two years, the open hearted
generosity of the many donors and sponsors, the talented performers who
entertained the gathering, the professional Convention Center staff &
vendors and most of all, “You” - the enthusiastic Konkani delegates who came
from far and wide to attend the Sammelan.
See you all in Chicago for the
Sammelan 2010!
Don’t forget to share feedback
about your Sammelan experience -- www.konkanisammelan.org/2008/feedback.asp
Devu Baren Karo 2008
Konkani Sammelan Committees
