Human Interest

Vishwa Konkani Centre Honours 2025 Jeevan Siddi Samman Awardee Pundalik N. Naik at His Goa Residence


The Vishwa Konkani Vimala V Pai Jeevan Siddi Samman 2025 was conferred upon acclaimed Konkani writer and cultural icon Shri Pundalik N. Naik at a special felicitation ceremony held at his residence in Goa. The intimate gathering celebrated Naik’s outstanding contribution to the preservation, promotion, and enrichment of Konkani literature and culture, honouring a lifetime dedicated to creative excellence and linguistic pride.

The event was attended by leading figures from the Konkani literary community, including Dr. Kiran Budkuley, Vice President of the Konkani Bhas Ani Sanskriti Prathistan (KBASP). The felicitation reflected the collective admiration and respect of the Konkani fraternity for Shri Naik’s immense body of work, which has inspired generations of readers, writers, and cultural enthusiasts.

Special thanks were extended to Harekal Pundalik Pai (Annu, Mangalore), whose efforts and coordination made the meeting and felicitation possible. The Board of Trustees of KBASP and the World Konkani Centre, Mangalore, expressed deep appreciation to everyone who contributed to making the event meaningful and memorable.

Through this recognition, the Vishwa Konkani Centre reaffirms its commitment to celebrating stalwarts who have shaped the linguistic and cultural identity of the Konkani-speaking world. Shri Pundalik N. Naik’s literary journey stands as a testament to the enduring power of language, storytelling, and cultural heritage — values that continue to inspire the global Konkani community.

National

Mangaluru Student Sets World Record with 170-Hour Bharatanatyam Marathon


Written by Tanisha Cardozo

July 30, 2025 | Mangaluru

In an awe-inspiring display of endurance, passion, and devotion to Indian classical dance, Remona Evette Pereira, a 20-year-old BA student at St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) in Mangaluru, set a new world record by performing Bharatanatyam continuously for 170 hours — a feat officially recognised by the Golden Book of World Records.

Her performance began at 10:00 am on July 21 and concluded at 12:00 noon on July 28, held at the university’s Robert Sequeira Hall. The previous record stood at 127 hours, which Remona surpassed by a stunning 43 hours.

She commenced the marathon with an invocation to Lord Ganesha and concluded it with a ballet and a devotional piece dedicated to Goddess Durga, symbolizing a full-circle spiritual journey.

An Unbelievable Human Feat

Over the course of seven days, Remona followed a meticulously planned routine — taking a 15-minute break every 3 hours, during which she consumed a simple diet of bananas, curd, tender coconut water, and soft-cooked rice. The preparation for this event began months ago, with Remona training daily for 5–6 hours alongside her academic responsibilities.

A dedicated medical team — including doctors and ambulance personnel — was present throughout the event to ensure her health and safety.

Artistic Excellence

Throughout the 170-hour performance, Remona displayed flawless footwork, precise mudras (hand gestures), emotive abhinaya (facial expressions), and rhythmic movement — all hallmarks of Bharatanatyam. She performed to recorded classical music, maintaining the cultural purity of the dance while pushing physical limits.

Community Support & Recognition

Remona was supported by her mentor Dr. Shrividya Muralidhar, the college administration, faculty, and peers. After the performance, she was honored with a certificate of excellence by Manish Vishnoi, India Representative of the Golden Book of World Records. Vice Chancellor Praveen Martis also praised her perseverance and passion.

An Inspiration to All

Already an accomplished dancer with 13 years of training and several records under her belt, Remona has become a symbol of what dedication and cultural pride can achieve. Her performance was not merely a record-setting event — it was a spiritual journey, a disciplined challenge, and a cultural statement.

As her classmates welcomed her back with a Bharatanatyam procession, the auditorium echoed not just with applause, but with national pride.

Remona Evette Pereira’s name is now etched in history — a reminder of the heights young India can reach with tradition in their hearts and resilience in their spirit.

Entertainment

Kudmi Sigmostava 2025: A Celebration of Rich Cultural Heritage


The Kudmi Sigmostava 2025 Committee is thrilled to announce the inauguration of the first-ever Kudmi Sigmo on April 13 in Yedapadavu, Mangalore. This momentous occasion marks a significant milestone in the celebration of Kudmi culture, and we are honored to be a part of it.

Today, the official festival logo of Kudmi Sigmostava 2025 was unveiled, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of the Kudmi community. The logo embodies the spirit of unity, tradition, and celebration that defines the Kudmi people.

Kudmi Sigmostava 2025 is a grand celebration of Kudmi culture, showcasing the community’s vibrant traditions, music, dance, and cuisine. The festival promises to be an unforgettable experience, bringing together people from all walks of life to revel in the richness of Kudmi heritage.

The inauguration ceremony of Kudmi Sigmostava 2025 will take place on April 13 in Yedapadavu, Mangalore. The event will be attended by distinguished guests, community leaders, and members of the Kudmi community.