Books & Literature

Damodar Mauzo’s ‘Panchkhadai’ Set for Launch on August 1st at Ravindra Bhavan


Award-winning Konkani writer Damodar (Bhai) Mauzo is set to release his latest literary offering, Panchkhadai — a collection of five long short stories that delve into human emotions, Goan culture, and contemporary issues with his signature narrative brilliance.

The launch event will take place on August 1st, 2025 at 5:00 PM, at the esteemed Ravindra Bhavan in Madgao, Goa. The evening promises to be a confluence of literature and celebration, as leading literary figures grace the occasion.

Senior poet Madhav Borkar will deliver the presidential address, sharing insights into Mauzo’s contribution to literature and the impact of his latest work. The event will also welcome Principal Dr. Bhushan Bhave as the chief guest, highlighting the academic and literary resonance of Mauzo’s new book.

Published by Sanjana Publications, Panchkhadai marks a significant addition to contemporary Konkani and Indian short fiction, offering stories that are both introspective and engaging.

Dinesh Manerkar, owner of Sanjana Publications, has extended a heartfelt invitation to all lovers of literature, students, and readers to attend the event in large numbers and show support for one of Goa’s most celebrated literary voices.

Books & Literature

Tino De Sa: A Goan Author’s Journey to Literary Excellence


Tino De Sa, a distinguished Goan author and former Chief Secretary of Madhya Pradesh, has achieved a remarkable milestone by being shortlisted for the prestigious 2025 Commonwealth Short Story Prize. His captivating story, ‘Tamarind’, has been selected from a staggering 7,920 submissions from 54 countries, making him the only Indian writer to feature on this year’s shortlist.


The Commonwealth Short Story Prize is a major literary platform that celebrates emerging voices from across the globe. Often dubbed the “Booker Prize for short stories,” this prize recognizes exceptional storytelling and writing talent. This year’s shortlist features 25 writers from 18 different countries, representing a diverse range of cultures and experiences.


De Sa expressed his joy and surprise at being shortlisted, saying, “It was a complete surprise, and I’m absolutely thrilled. Being shortlisted feels like a real validation of my work.” With a distinguished career in civil service, De Sa has always nurtured his passion for writing, describing it as both a compulsion and a joy.


De Sa’s love for writing is evident in his words: “Even during my time in government, where most of my writing was limited to official files, I still found ways to nurture my creative side. When you truly love something, you find time for it.” He added, “It’s a virtuous cycle. Reading inspires me to write—and writing deepens my love for reading.”


The final winner of the Commonwealth Short Story Prize will be announced in June. De Sa’s shortlisting has generated significant interest in his work, and readers can look forward to exploring more of his stories in the future.


Originally from Divar and now living in Panaji, De Sa is a celebrated Goan author known for his captivating stories. His writing has been featured in various anthologies, and he has won several awards for his work. De Sa’s achievement is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of celebrating diverse voices and experiences.