MARGAO
The Global Romi Lipi Abhiyan (GRLA) will organise the “Poilem Ithiasik Sahitya ani Sonskrutik Maha Somellon” on 30 May 2026 (Goa Statehood Day), from 9 am to 6 pm, at the Ratzinger AC Hall in Verna, Goa.
The theme of the Maha Somellon will be “Kanknni Avoiche Vengent Ravum Ya” and will focus on unity in diversity through group discussions.
The event will also showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Konkani language through dance, song and music. One of the key agenda items will be adopting the flag designed by late Eric Ozario as the official flag of the Konkani language.
GRLA Convenor Kennedy Afonso said the historic Maha Somellon aims to bring delegates and associations representing all five Konkani scripts on a single platform. He said the goal is to promote unity among all Konkani script associations so that the language can bloom and flourish.
He said the Global Romi Lipi Abhiyan will reach out to Konkani associations across India and abroad to seek their support and co-operation to make the historic Somellon a grand success.
“The resolutions passed in this Somellon will represent the collective voice of all five scripts, through engaging dialogues and group discussions that will explore all possibilities to protect and develop all five scripts of the Konkani language, and to maintain the unique diversity of Konkani language,” he said.
He added, “The concept to unite all scripts of Konkani language was first presented by Kennedy Afonso through a PowerPoint presentation at Maand Sobhan, Mangalore. The late Eric Ozario supported the concept and immediately took steps to take it forward with the support of other Konkani associations in Mangalore.”
He said GRLA is organising this first historic Maha Somellon as a fitting tribute to the late Ozario, who has been an inspiration to many. “GRLA plans to hold this Maha Somellon annually in various parts of India and even take it globally, wherever Konkani people are domiciled in the years to come,” he added.
