Mangalore: Children learn Konkani through examples

The Hindu

• The activities start with the morning exercise at 6.30 a.m.
• Eric Ozario and his associates are training 17 children in Konkani music

 

Mangalore, 28 April 2011: Twelve-year-old Melarie Crasta makes it a point not to use any English term while interacting with her friends. “But I do accidentally come out with English terms as it is a habit and my friends correct me,” Ms. Crastra said.

 

FUN ’N’ LEARN:A dance class in progress at the summer camp at Mandd Sobhann in Mangalore on Wednesday.

 

She is among the 52 children who are taking part in a seven-day summer camp organised by Mandd Sobhann at the Kalaangann since April 25.

 

While training children in Konkani music, play, and dance forms, the organisers have been trying to give basics of Konkani and help participants speak the language fluently.

 

The young Crasta says she initially wondered whether she could stay away from her house for a week. “I was homesick initially. But in two days, I have made many friends. The experience of eating and spending time together has been memorable,” she says.

 

Her friend Evangeline Lobo says: “We are free from restrictions that are generally imposed on us (at home).”

 

The day begins with morning exercise at 6.30 a.m. There are sessions to teach some fundamental words in Konkani by Eric Ozario, director of the camp and Gurkar (Chief) of Mandd Sobhann.

 

“Eric Maam (Konkani word for an elderly person) has helped us speak better. In two days, we have become proficient to count in Konkani,” Ms. Lobo says proudly.

 

Mr. Ozario and his three associates — Lavita Lobo, Dylan Caldeira, and Lenoy Lobo — have been training 17 children in various forms of Konkani music. While training in music composition, Mr. Ozario explains the essence of the prose. “The training has helped me in catching up with tunes. I can now sing in high pitch,” says Priya Baretto, a participant.

 

There is another group of 17 students who are being trained in dancing. This training is conducted by senior choreographer Merula D’Silva and Vernon D’Souza.

 

“It’s by attending these camps that I been able to excel in dancing,” says Mr. D’Souza, who had attended the summer camp for five years.