Media Release
Mangaluru, Nov 5, 2024 : The 20th edition of the Kalakar Puraskar, jointly presented by the Carvalho Family and Mandd Sobhann, was awarded on 3rd November 2024 at Kalangann.
The ceremony began with an introductory address by Rev. Dr. Pratap Naik, representing the Carvalho Family, who detailed the award's origin and significance.
Rony Crasta then read the citation, and John D'Silva, a prominent Konkani leader and renowned banker from Mumbai, conferred the 20th Kalakar Puraskar to musician Ralph Roshen Crasta. The award included a shawl, garland, urmal (traditional Konkani headwear), fruits, citation, memento, and a cheque for ₹50,000/-. Mandd Sobhann Gurkar Eric Ozario and Secretary Keron Madtha were also present on stage. From Carvalho family Florine Lobo, Felix Lobo and Renita Lobo and Roshen's wife Reshma, son Yohan, parents Stany-Rozy Crasta, mother-in-law Leena Sequeira were present during the ceremony.
In his address, John D'Silva praised Mandd Sobhann's relentless efforts and also congratulated Roshen.
In his acceptance speech, Roshan reflected on the challenges of his musical journey and expressed gratitude to those who supported him along the way.
During the ceremony, Prithuma Monteiro Vamanjoor, was awarded the first 'Eric Ozario Amrutotsav Research Grant', a grant of ₹1,00,000/- for research on the topic 'Konkani Christian Folklore: A Retrospect'. She has a Master's Degree in Media and Communication.
The event concluded after presenting a bouquet to Pio Agnello Fernandes, the leader of the Concert to be staged at the 275th Monthly Theatre. However, the performance was postponed to a further date due to heavy rain.
Vitori Karkal compeered the ceremony.