Writers Must Be the First to Respond When People’s Rights Are Attacked: Senior Advocate M.P. Noronha

Mangaluru: Senior Advocate and Dakshina Kannada District Government Pleader M.P. Noronha said that literature has a profound influence on society and that writers must be the first to raise their voices through their literary works whenever people’s rights are under attack.

He was speaking after inaugurating the 5th All India National Charoli Literary Conference held at Sahodaya Hall, Balmatta, Mangaluru. The conference was formally inaugurated with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp placed on a brass vessel filled with rice.

The programme commenced with a prayer service led by Rev. Fr. Jerald Lobo, OFM Cap., Superior of St. Ann’s Friary.

In his inaugural address, Noronha said that literature shapes new ideas, helps resolve the conflicts and dilemmas of the human mind, and serves as a catalyst for positive social transformation. He noted that genuine literature reflects fresh thinking and inspires meaningful change in society.

On the occasion, the National Charoli Literary Award was presented to Arundhati V. Rao of Mangaluru and Annie de Colvale of Goa in recognition of their contributions to Konkani literature.

Presiding over the conference, Raymond D’Cunha Taccode, President of the 5th National Charoli Literary Conference, said that the participation of Konkani poets from Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Goa, Dubai, Bengaluru, and Karwar, representing different scripts and dialects, made the gathering unique. “This conference is a celebration of Konkani’s unity in India’s diversity,” he remarked.

The poetry session was inaugurated and moderated by noted Konkani poet and linguist Gaurish Varnekar from Goa.

Among the dignitaries present on the dais was Elias Fernandes, Director of Fourwinds Mass Communications & Services.

The valedictory function was attended by Srinivas Nayak Indaje, Dakshina Kannada representative of the Karnataka Working Journalists’ Association, as the chief guest. He presented medals and mementoes to the participating poets.

Yogita Varnekar delivered the valedictory address.

A special student–writer interaction on preserving and promoting literature for future generations was also organised, with active participation from students of St. Aloysius College, Mangaluru, and Goa.

Senior litterateur Raymond D’Cunha Taccode welcomed the gathering, Riana D’Cunha proposed the vote of thanks, and Prof. Nathalia D’Cunha, senior faculty member at Father Muller Nursing College, compered the programme.

The conference was coordinated by Joan Tauro, Stany Tauro, Lona Vaz, Viroy D’Sa, and Herald Albuquerque.