Mangaluru: Mandd Sobhann, a pioneering institution in the Konkani cultural movement, is set to celebrate the Silver Jubilee Year of its landmark initiative “Mho’ynyalli Manchi” (Monthly Theatre), marking 25 years of uninterrupted dedication to the performing arts.

Launched on January 6, 2002, the Monthly Theatre series has completed 288 consecutive months, a rare achievement in Indian theatre history. Conceived as part of Eric Ozario’s vision of Kalaangann as a vibrant hub for the performing arts, the programme has earned acclaim for its strict punctuality, artistic discipline, consistency, and diversity. Over the years, it has showcased all forms of performing arts across various dialects of Konkani, featuring artistes from India and abroad. The uniquely designed Kalaangann stage was inaugurated by renowned actor Naseeruddin Shah.

Silver jubilee inauguration: ‘Rupya-Pavlam’

The inauguration of the Silver Jubilee Year, titled ‘Rupya-Pavlam’ (Silver Steps), will be held on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 6.00 pm at Kalaangann, Shaktinagar. The programme will be inaugurated by Ivan D’Souza, Member of the Karnataka Legislative Council, as Chief Guest, while entrepreneur and philanthropist Austin Roach from Bengaluru will be the Guest of Honour. The event will be presided over by Louis J. Pinto, President of Mandd Sobhann.

Digital initiatives to expand Konkani reach

As part of the celebrations, Mandd Sobhann will unveil a revamped and modernised version of its official website, www.manddsobhann.org. In a major step towards widening access to Konkani literature and cultural information, the organisation will also launch:

  • e-Bongsall – an e-library for Konkani books
  • Konkanishow.com – a dedicated portal for information on Konkani cultural programmes

These initiatives reflect Mandd Sobhann’s commitment to blending tradition with technology and taking Konkani art and literature to a global audience.

Musical evening to mark the milestone

Following the formal ceremony, the 289th Monthly Theatre — and the first performance of the Silver Jubilee Year — will feature a musical concert by Konkani singer Prajoth D’Sa, a software engineer based in Australia. He will be joined by vocalists Sonal Monteiro, Cleon D’Silva and Ayush Menezes, with backing vocals by the Blue Angels Choir. The ensemble, directed by Russell Rodrigues, will include Hrishikesh Upadhyaya on drums, Joswin D’Cunha on lead guitar, and Milton Braggs on bass.

With Mho’ynyalli Manchi entering its silver jubilee year, Mandd Sobhann continues to stand as a beacon of cultural continuity, innovation, and artistic excellence in the Konkani world.