Kundapur, Sept 28: The “Kani Kani Kantha 2025” storytelling competition, Kundapur edition, was held at Carmel Ashram, Katkere, on Sunday, September 28, at 2:30 p.m. The event was hosted by Catholic Sabha, Koteshwar Unit.

Fr. Praveen Pinto, Superior of the Carmelite Monastery at Katkere, graced the occasion, while Fr. Joe Tauro was the chief guest. Mr. Ullas Fernandes, President of Catholic Sabha, Koteshwar Unit, welcomed the guests of honour and participants. The competition was inaugurated by Fr. Ivan D’Souza, Editor of Naman Ballok Jezu Konkani monthly, who addressed the gathering.

Around 25 children participated, delivering impressive and heartfelt storytelling performances. The competition was judged by Mr. Alwyn Danti (renowned Konkani writer and teacher) and Mrs. Judith Mendonca (social worker and literature enthusiast). Winners were felicitated by Fr. Joe Tauro, Fr. Ivan D’Souza, and Mr. Ullas Fernandes.

Winners of Kundapur Edition

Category 1 (KG – 1st Std):

First: Andrea D’Souza, Piusnagar

Second: Jolvia Melrita D’Souza, Basrur

Third: Princiya D’Souza

Category 2 (7th – 10th Std):

First: Valencia D’Souza, Kundapur

Second: Anoliya Theresa D’Souza, Piusnagar

Third: Jackline Olivera, Piusnagar

Category 3 (11th – 17 years):

First: Jenisha D’Souza, Piusnagar

Second: Carol Lobo, Byndoor

Third: Nesline D’Souza, Basrur

The storytelling initiative was launched by Naman Ballok Jesu in 2018 and extended to Udupi in 2019. In 2021, it went online, providing opportunities for children worldwide. Since then, Daiji Dubai has partnered in organising the event. In 2025, the competition is being held across four centres—Mangaluru, Udupi, Kundapura, and Puttur with winners advancing to the grand finale in Mangaluru.