‘The Poetica Kavigosti -39’ Celebrated at Anthonykatte

June 1, 2025: The 39th edition of ‘The Poetica Kavigosti’ was held in the Anthonykatte church campus on 1st June 2025, jointly organized by ‘Ami Ani Amchim’ and ‘Poetica’ cultural-literary associations with the cooperation of St. Antony Church, Anthonykatte. This unique Konkani poetry fest turned into a grand celebration of language, culture, and art, bringing together poets and poetesses from Karnataka and Goa, with an impressive recital of over 125 Konkani poems throughout the evening.

The programme opened with a traditional inauguration marked by a symbolic jackfruit-cutting ritual, signifying unity in culture and tradition. St. Antony’s Brass Band, Anthonykatte, added colour to the festivities with their lively musical performance, complemented by traditional dances, setting a vibrant tone for the literary evening.

The event was masterfully conducted by Vincent Moras from Madanthyar as master of ceremonies. Renowned poets George Ligory D’Souza (Suratkal) and Lloyd Rego (Taccode) led the fest, introducing and guiding the participating poets with their literary insights.

The formal stage programme was presided over by Rev. Fr. Francis Rodrigues, Parish Priest of Adyapady and former editor of Raknno Konkani weekly. He was also honoured with the ‘Audience Favourite’ award for his poetic recital. Mr. Santosh D’Souza from Bajpe, newly elected President of the Catholic Sabha Central Committee and chief guest of the evening, inaugurated the programme and was felicitated by the organisers. Also present were Denis D’Silva (President, Ami Ani Amchi), Santosh D’Costa (Secretary, Ami Ani Amchi), Naveen Pereira (Gurkar, Poetica, Suratkal), and Rajesh D’Costa, Anthonykatte (local host).

Among other dignitaries were Lawrence D’Souza (Suratkal), Vice President of the Catholic Sabha Central Committee, and Rolphy D’Costa, former Zilla Panchayat member and past President of the Catholic Sabha, who presented mementoes to all the poets and performers as a token of appreciation.

Special attractions of the evening included the captivating poetic recitals of Saraswathi Naik and Guadalupe Dias from Goa, who moved the audience with their deep and soulful verses. The gathering stood as a shining tribute to the rich literary and cultural heritage of the Konkani language, fostering pride and unity among Konkani-speaking communities.

The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Poetica Gurkar Naveen Pereira (Suratkal), followed by a fellowship dinner that brought the community together in joy and gratitude.

The ‘Poetica Kavigosti -39’ at Anthonykatte will be remembered as a milestone event, celebrating Konkani poetry, tradition, and cultural identity with grandeur and devotion.