Kani Kani Kantha-2025 Grand Finale Concluded
on a High Note in Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Nov 16: The grand finale of Kani Kani Kantha - 2025, a
highly popular Konkani storytelling competition was held on Sunday,
November 16 at 2 p.m. at the Infant Jesus Shrine Hall, Mangaluru.
The event witnessed an enthusiastic gathering of participants,
parents, well-wishers, and Konkani literature enthusiasts.
Finalists from Mangaluru, Udupi, Kundapur and Puttur captivated the
audience with their creative and expressive storytelling skills.
Each performance reflected originality, confidence, and a deep love
for the Konkani language, making the competition remarkably vibrant
and engaging.
The prize distribution ceremony, held at 4 p.m. was presided over by
Fr. Rupesh Madtha, while noted poet and film director Mr. Stany Bela
graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries present on
the dais included: Fr. Melvin Dcunha, Superior, St. Joseph’s
Monastery, Mr. Praveen Tauro, Shrine Director Fr. Stifan Perera, Fr.
Joseph Cyril Dsouza, President, Daij Dubai Mangalore Unit, Mrs.
Flavia Albuquerque, Renowned Writer, Fr. Ivan D’Souza, Editor, NBJ
MC Elson Hirgan introduced the dignitaries, after which Fr. Ivan
Dsouza welcomed them with a shawl. Chief Guest Mr. Stany Bela, in
his address, encouraged the youth to preserve Konkani through
creativity, literature, and community participation.
The panel of judges Mrs. Asuntha Priya Danthy, Mr. Edward Sequeira,
Mrs. Sapna Crasta, Vamanjoor and Mrs. Molly Miranda, Kulshekar were
felicitated with mementos in recognition of their valuable
contribution.
Fr. Ivan Dsouza proposed the vote of thanks. Mr. Elson Hirgan
compered the programme. Premitha Dsouza, along with the Secular
Carmel members, rendered valuable assistance in organizing the
event. The event concluded with the formal announcement of winners
in all categories.
Grand Finale Results
Category 1 (KG to 1st Std)
1.Preethal Pinto, Bajjodi – First Place
2.Rihanna Sarah Lasrado, Derebail – Second Place
3.Anvil Gonsalves, Puttur – Third Place
Category 2 (2nd to 5th Std)
1.Shannon Reeve Crasta – First Place
2.Angel Meghan Cutinha, Hospet – Second Place
3.Tivona Lenita Sequeira, Puttur – Third Place
Category 3 (6th to 12th Std)
1.Preemal Pinto, Bajjodi – First Place
2.Nimisha Prisha Monteiro, Bondel – Second Place
3.Jenisha D’Souza, Piusnagar – Third Place
Category 4 (18 years & above)
1.Neeha Neola Rodrigues, Loretto – First Place
2.Shwetha D’Souza, Kollangana – Second Place
3.Irene Pinto, Bajjodi – Third Place
