H. M. Pernal and Leo Rodrigues Applauded for Nurturing Konkani Literary Talent
NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
MANGALURU: The vibrant evening celebrating Konkani literature at the PFX Saldanha Auditorium, MCC Bank, Hampankatta, on October 3, 2026, became a memorable occasion for recognising both emerging talent and the dedicated champions of the language. The event, marked by the inspiring presence of renowned Konkani writer and Kittal editor-publisher H. M. Pernal and distinguished Abu Dhabi-based entrepreneur, philanthropist and Konkani supporter Leo Rodrigues, witnessed young writer and poet Glanish Martis of Alangar being conferred with the prestigious Leo Rodrigues Family Youth Award 2026.
The award stands as a fine example of how sustained encouragement can inspire the younger generation to take up writing and contribute meaningfully to Konkani language and literature. Through Kittal, H. M. Pernal has played a significant role in creating a platform where established writers and emerging voices can come together, while Leo Rodrigues and his family have generously supported the initiative by sponsoring the annual Youth Award.
The programme began with Sahakar Ratna Anil Lobo, Chairman of MCC Bank, welcoming the dignitaries and the gathering. H. M. Pernal, in his introductory address, reflected on the remarkable journey of Kittal, which has served as an important Konkani literary portal since 2011. He highlighted its continued commitment to promoting the language, encouraging quality writing and providing opportunities for young writers. The Leo Rodrigues Family Youth Award, instituted through Kittal to encourage young Konkani writers, has become an important encouragement for the new generation. The initiative reflects the shared vision of H. M. Pernal and Leo Rodrigues to ensure that Konkani literature remains vibrant, relevant and enriched by new voices.
The evening also paid tribute to two veteran literary personalities. Dr. Eugene D’Souza, Boliye, and Mr. Eddi Sequeira, Bendur, were honoured for their extensive and lifelong contributions to Konkani language and literature. Their recognition added a special dimension to the celebration, bringing together generations of Konkani literary talent. A detailed citation highlighting Glanish Martis’s literary achievements was read by Wilson Kateel of the Kittal.com team. Leo Rodrigues then presented the award to Glanish Martis in the presence of Chief Guest Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis, Parish Priest of Derebail, and Ivan D’Souza, MLC, who joined in felicitating the young writer.
Speaking on the occasion, Leo Rodrigues underlined the purpose behind the award. He expressed his desire to see young people contribute to their community and literature with a strong sense of responsibility. He also called upon senior writers and literary personalities to conduct workshops that would bring together, guide, motivate and inspire emerging writers. Leo Rodrigues’s continued support for the award is a commendable contribution to the nurturing of Konkani’s next generation of literary talent. His commitment, together with the literary leadership of H. M. Pernal and the Kittal team, has helped create a meaningful bridge between experienced writers and young aspirants.
In his response, Glanish Martis expressed heartfelt gratitude to his parents, family and senior Konkani writers who had inspired and guided him. He acknowledged that the award brings with it a greater responsibility to contribute to the growth of the Konkani language. Martis also highlighted the importance of developing a reading culture among today’s youth. At a time when young people are increasingly absorbed in mobile phones and digital entertainment, he stressed the need to find innovative ways to encourage the younger generation to read and engage with literature.
Chief Guest Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis, drawing on Aristotle’s famous thought that wonder is the beginning of wisdom, reflected on the special vocation of writers and poets. He described the poet as a mirror of reality and emphasised the enduring power of literature to preserve the thoughts and experiences of a generation. He also encouraged the development of a new generation of readers and extended his prayerful wishes to Glanish Martis, the Kittal family, the Leo Rodrigues family and all the honourees.
The celebration was organised by the Kittal team, including Titus Noronha, and brought together several prominent figures of Konkani literary and cultural life. Among those present were noted writers Melwyn Rodrigues and Kishoo Barkur, filmmaker Stany Bela, and Raymond D’Cunha, among other well-known personalities. The presence of veteran writers alongside a promising young awardee made the occasion particularly significant. It demonstrated the strength of Konkani literature as a living tradition; one that respects its accomplished pioneers while warmly welcoming new voices.
The Leo Rodrigues Family Youth Award, supported by Leo Rodrigues and his family and nurtured through the literary vision of H. M. Pernal and Kittal, continues to be a valuable initiative in encouraging young Konkani writers. Glanish Martis’s recognition is therefore not merely a personal achievement but also a celebration of the future of Konkani literature. The memorable evening concluded with fellowship among the literary fraternity, following a grace led by Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis.
