Margao: Marking the Independence Day of India, Konkani Shanti Publications (KSP) organised a Bal Kavi Sammelan (Children’s Multilingual Poetry Recitation Competition) titled “My Nation, My Garden” at Ravindra Bhavan here yesterday. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students representing various schools across Goa, who showcased their poetic talents with passion and creativity.
In his inaugural address, Mr. Samiullah Belwadi, President of KSP, highlighted the significance of the event. He stated that language is a universal medium of expression, not bound to any single community. India, with its thousands of dialects and regional languages – including the varied forms of Konkani within Goa – is a testament to rich linguistic diversity. He lamented that, unfortunately, conflicts still arise in the name of language.
Drawing a powerful analogy, he remarked, “Just as a garden becomes more vibrant with a variety of flowers, each unique in colour, fragrance and form, India’s beauty lies in its diversity of languages, traditions, clothing, and cultures.”
Shivdas, a renowned writer and social activist, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In his inspiring speech, he encouraged children to nurture their poetic abilities through reading, observation, writing, and reflection. He emphasised that true poetry flows from within and cannot be forced – it must be felt and experienced.
The competition was judged by a distinguished panel of poets and writers, including Chitra Kshirsagar, Ramesh Ghadi, Sheetal Salgaokar, Purnima Desai, and Sharmin Khan. The judges commended the young participants for their imagination, originality, and heartfelt expression. They also lauded KSP’s ongoing efforts to promote India’s linguistic heritage and foster a spirit of unity.
“Let us remember: without communal harmony, there is no peace – and without peace, no progress,” Judges remarked.
In his concluding remarks, Mr. Asif Hussain emphasised KSP’s dedication to promoting literary appreciation and national harmony through such events. He reflected on the hope, dreams, and expectations children hold for the world.
“Their positivity and uncorrupted vision of India are a reflection of the ideals of our founding fathers. Their confidence and creativity give us renewed hope for a brighter, united future,” he said.
Winners of the competition included:
- Aafiya Shaikh – Deepvihar Primary School;
- Saijat Anjul Fall Dessai – Tiny Tots Primary School;
- Adhvaiya Kunkolikar – Popular Prathamik Vidhyalay;
- Aisafa Begum Khan, Zaida Mehboob Shaikh, and Ayesha Baig – Crescent School;
- Aabed Farhan Onti – Maarif Modest Education;
- Asad Shaikh – Loyola High School; and
- Zainab Khanam Soudagar – Keshav Smruti Bal Vikas School.
A special song was presented by students of Popular English High School, Goa Velha.
The program was efficiently coordinated by Afrah Sayyed, who served as the convenor.
