Mangaluru: MCC Bank Ltd celebrated Konkani Manyatha Divas with enthusiasm and cultural fervour at the P F X Saldanha Memorial Auditorium of its administrative office on Saturday, August 15. The programme commemorated the historic inclusion of Konkani in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India.
The event was presided over by Sahakara Ratna Anil Lobo, chairman of MCC Bank. Stany Alvares, president of the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy, and Fr Roopesh Madtha, editor of Raknno Weekly and public relations officer of the Diocese of Mangalore, were the chief guests.
MCC Bank reaffirms commitment to Konkani
The programme began with Stany Alvares ceremonially hoisting the Konkani flag, symbolising the language’s identity and cultural pride.
Anil Lobo highlighted the importance of celebrating Konkani Manyatha Divas within a financial institution, noting that MCC Bank’s social responsibility extends beyond banking services. He reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to preserving and promoting Konkani language and culture.
Young generation urged to protect language
Stany Alvares recalled the efforts and sacrifices of pioneers who worked for Konkani’s inclusion among the 22 languages in the Eighth Schedule and its recognition as the official language of Goa.
He urged the younger generation to develop a deeper love for Konkani language, literature and traditions and thanked MCC Bank’s management and staff for supporting the language and its heritage.
Fr Roopesh Madtha described August 15 as a day of three-fold significance, highlighting the Feast of the Assumption, India’s Independence Day and the recognition of Konkani. He appreciated MCC Bank’s efforts to bring faith, patriotism and cultural heritage together.
‘Konkani Maina’ Meena Rebimbus honoured
A major highlight was the felicitation of renowned Konkani singer Meena Rebimbus, popularly known as “Konkani Maina”, for her lifelong contribution to Konkani music and culture.
She was honoured with a shawl, garland, fruits and a cheque of Rs 50,000. David D’Souza read out the citation.
Responding to the honour, Meena Rebimbus thanked MCC Bank and chairman Anil Lobo for the initiative. She also performed a song composed by the late Wilfy Rebimbus about MCC Bank.
Cultural performances add colour
Directors who celebrated birthdays in August 2026 and staff members marking silver or golden birthdays during 2026 were also felicitated.
The cultural programme featured performances by Agrar Gumta Pangod, Urban Groove Dance Group and Campus Chores Singing Group. The artistes were felicitated by Anil Lobo.
The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks by general manager Sunil Menezes, reaffirming MCC Bank’s commitment to preserving Konkani language, culture and heritage for future generations.