Mangaluru: Bishop Dr Saldanha inaugurates Newly-renovated Don Bosco Hall
Pics: John V Tauro
Bellevision Media Network
Mangaluru, 28 Jan 2022: The Don Bosco Hall that was built in 1951 under Konkani Natak Sabha (KNS) has received a major facelift after 78 years. The renovated hall was blessed and inaugurated by Mangaluru bishop Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, here on Thursday, January 27.
The hall is situated in the heart of the city. It has been staging houseful Konkani plays on weekends for the past 7 decades. It has nurtured the growth of many theatre artistes, musicians and others over a long period.
The renovation started in February 2021 and was completed within a year at a cost of Rs 1.5 crore. The hall authorities have planned additional work which will be taken up in the next phase, depending on the availability of funds.
Mangaluru city police commissioner N Sasikumar, Trinity Capuchin province Provincial Fr Alwyn Dias, major donors St Aloysius education institutions rector Fr Melvyn Pinto SJ, Abu-Dhabi based Al Mazroui & Clevy Auto Services LLC owner Leo and Laveena Rodrigues couple, KNS president and superior of St Ann’s Friary Fr Paul Melvyn D’Souza, humanitarian and owner of Santosh Undertakers Santosh Sequeira, KNS governing council members were present on the dais.
In his inaugural address, Sasikumar said, ‘Mangaluru is the cradle of culture in the entire Karnataka as it has diverse cultures and ethnicity. KNS has nurtured the art and theater by collectively pooling the resources to build Don Bosco Hall 78 years ago. It’s the platform that is poised to nurture future artistes and musicians,’ he said.
In his presidential address, bishop Dr Saldanha said, ‘KNS is a jewel in the crown that is striving to promote theater through religious efforts. The religious plays that were held during Lenten season used to attract huge viewers and its impact was astounding, said bishop.
KNS felicitated Fr Melvyn, Fr Alwyn, Leo and Laveena couple, Santosh Sequeira and others in recognition of their extraordinary support in the renovation work.
Henry D’Silva compered the stage programme. KNS PRO welcomed the dignitaries and gathering. Lloyd D’Mello proposed vote of thanks.