Mangaluru, Sept 27: The “Kani Kani Kantha 2025” storytelling competition was held on Saturday at Bikarnakatte, Carmel Hill, Mangaluru, drawing an enthusiastic participation of around 70 children from across the region.

The event was organised by Naman Ballok Jezu, the popular Konkani monthly, with the support of Daiji Dubai, Mangalore Unit.

Inaugurating the programme, Praveen Tauro, President of Daiji Dubai (Mangalore Unit), highlighted the cultural value of storytelling: “Storytelling is not only an art; it shows how our forefathers wisely taught life lessons. It is heartening to see children showcasing their talents while preserving Konkani stories for future generations.”

The competition featured impactful performances by both children and adults. The panel of judges included Mrs. Molly Miranda (Konkani writer), Sr. Reena Juliet (educationist), Mr. Aloysius D’Souza (teacher and actor), and Mr. Andrew L. D. Cunha (renowned Konkani writer).

The event was graced by Fr. Melwyn D. Cunha, Superior of St. Joseph’s Monastery, Carmel Hill. Fr. Ivan D’Souza, Editor of Naman Ballok Jezu, welcomed the dignitaries with flowers, while Fr. Jocy Siddakatte compered the programme. Winners were felicitated by Daiji Dubai members Mr. Praveen Tauro, Mr. Glany Fernandes, Mr. Andrew L. D. Cunha, and Fr. Ivan D’Souza, OCD.

Winners of Mangaluru Round

Category 1 (KG to 1st Std):

1. Bleston Jhon Masarenhas, Kirem (First Place)

2. Preethal Pinto, Bajjodi (Second Place)

3. Rihanna Sarah Lasrado, Derebail (Second Place)

4. Sara Pinto, Shakthinagar (Third Place)

Category 2 (2nd to 5th Std):

1. Vinola Lorenzo, Bendur (First Place)

2. Shannon Reeve Crasta (First Place)

3. Angel Meghan Cutinha, Hospet (Second Place)

4. Ashel Rego, Ladyhill (Third Place)

Category 3 (6th to 12th Std):

1. Anvila Neora D’Souza, Bondel (First Place)

2. Preemal Pinto, Bajjodi (Second Place)

3. Nimisha Prisha Monteiro, Bondel (Third Place)

Category 4 (18 years & above):

1. Neeha Neola Rodrigues, Loretto (First Place)

2. Rachel Rodney Crasta, Cordel (Second Place)

3. Irene Pinto, Bajjodi (Third Place)

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