Thank you for your overwhelming response to our request for entertainment content. We have now stopped accepting any new entries. We have finalized a fun filled, thought provoking and entertaining extravaganza. The events are designed to showcase the Sammelan theme “Awaken the Konkani in You” and are meant to stimulate your senses, inspire you intellect and pump up your pride in being a Konkani!
Prakash Padukone
Mrs. Jaya Row
Mr K. V. Kamath
Dr. Sumeeth Bhat
Karaoke Open Mike - Here is an opportunity for you to showcase your singing talents and have fun! We have an "open Mike" karaoke hour on a first come first served basis, so bring your sing-along CDs and WOW the audience! Click here to sign-up for this this event..
Standup Comedy - Roar with laughter with our very own Konkani standup comedian Purandar Mallya and his side splitting Konkani jokes and stories
Opening / Closing Ceremonies - Enactment of Cultural themes accompanied by lilting and original music created especially for Konkani Sammelan 2008. Don't miss our "Opening and Closing Dhamaka" woven together with a theme to "Awaken the Konkani" in each and everyone of us.
Plays - Konkanis from Chicago are presenting "Prem KaNi", a romantic musical, and Los Angeles Konkanis have a production to tickle your funny bone.
Classical and Folk Dances - Talented konkanis from across the country will enthrall you with exquisite Bharath Natyam, Odissi, Kathakali and folk dances. Some highlights include a Saraswati dance by Karisma Nagarkatti and "Bhalle Bhalle" Konkani Bhangda by the Chicago troupe.
Skits and Spoofs - Short skits, mimicry and spoofs highlighting the lighter side of being a Konkani. Look for "The 5 Star Waiter" by Shyam Amladi, "Amchigele PaTTanga" by St. Louis Konkanis and "Great Impressions" by Amith Ankholekar, an up and coming Mimic.
Hindustani Classical Music - For all of you Hindustani Classical Music lovers, Mahesh Kale, an extremely talented vocalist who learnt under illustrious Pt. Jeetendra Abhisheki, will captivate you with his melodious ragas, bhakti geet, natya sangeet and "Konkani Padha".
July 4th Attractions - Unique blend of classical and modern music presented by the Konkani Youth and Prasanna, an accomplished professional musician. Classical Carnatic, Jazz, Rock and Pop forms of music presented in a way you have never experienced! An absolute "Don't Miss"program!
Konkani Idol - Now a well established tradition at Konkani Sammelans, Konkani Idol will showcase our talented community competing for top prizes in singing, dance and instrumental music.
Awards Ceremony - The Konkani Sammelan 2008 plans to honor distinguished Konkanis from North America for their achievements. Click here for more on the awards ceremony.