Goanetters annual year-end meet is on Dec 27, 2010 (Monday) from 4-6 pm at
Institute Piedade (near Hotel Mandovi, opp Bread & More) in Panjim. Do come
along. RSVP via SMS 9822122436, [email protected] or 2409490 (after 2 pm).
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I enjoy speaking Konkani, my beloved language. And it gives me great joy
when I see others speaking the language. To me, it is a sign that all is
not yet lost. Even if our Goans in Goa are slowly switching over to
speaking Hindi instead of Konkani, I can rest assured that Konkani still
has hope. And the sacrifices of those who fought for recognition of
Konkani will not be in vain. I believe the time will come, when our
grandchildren will want to study about the language, besides speaking it.
I rambled to Noble Park on the 30th of October when I heard about the
Konkani Musical program being held at St. Anthony’s. And in typical
traditional Goan style, the show began late - over an hour late. What a
real shame. The hall was full, people waiting for the show to begin, and
we could see the organisers just walking about and chatting with their
friends. An absolute show of disrespect for fellow Goans and their
Aussie guests. And finally when the show began it was a great relief and
it felt so good to listen to the good old Konkani songs. However, it
soon got boring when we saw the same singer repeatedly coming up on
stage to perform. As if there is no more Goan talent here in Melbourne.
As I write today, I realise that it is the feast of St Francis Xavier,
our very own Goencho Saibha. Memories of the good days come to mind,
when we used to wake up early at 4.30 in the morning, and ride our
bicycles for the daily novena at Old Goa. And be back home in time for
breakfast before going off to school! Those were the good old days of
our youth. Things are so different today in Goa. Gone are the bicycles,
replaced by scooters, motorcycles and even cars! Here in Melbourne, the
Goan Association are having a mass to celebrate the feast on the 5th of
this month. Well, I am looking forward to being there - longing to
listen to and belt out the age old song to St Francis Xavier, which I
hope will be sung!
And before we know it, Christmas will be upon us, followed by the New
Year 2011. I would like to take this opportunity to wish my fellow
Goencars the best for a blessed Christmas, and a prosperous New Year to
follow... Viva Goenkar, viva Goa...
SOURCE: Ghozali (December 2010 edition)
http://melgoans.com/newsletters.htm
