Tribute to Eric Ozario by Konkani Sahitya Academy

Tribute to Eric Ozario by Konkani Sahitya Academy

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, September 5, 2025: The Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy organized a ‘Uthranjali’ programme at Bendur St Sebastian Mini Hall on September 4, 2025, to pay homage to the late former president of the Academy, Eric Ozario.

Academy president Joaquim Stany Alvares, in his welcome address, recalled his 37-year-long association with Eric.

 

 

 

The event began with Eric’s wife Joyce offering floral tributes before his portrait. Their daughter Dr. Rashmi, son-in-law and musician Alwyn Fernandes, grandchildren Aman and Zia, along with Academy members Naveen Lobo, Ronald Crasta, Akshata Nayak, Mandd Sobhann president Loui Pinto, Mangaluru Diocese PRO Roy Castelino, Konkani Writers’ Association president Richard Moras, Dakshina Kannada Mahila Congress president Appi, and several writers, organizers, and admirers also offered flowers in tribute.

 

 

 

Speakers highlighted different dimensions of Eric Ozario’s contributions —

Walter Nandalike on Eric as an individual and a leader,

Steven Quadros on his work in the Academy and education,

Charan Mallya on his role in music and culture, and

Conception Fernandes on his inspirational efforts in institution-building.

A special poem composed on the spot by Gopalakrishna of Naravi, a close admirer of Eric, was set to tune and rendered by singer Ronnie Crasta.

Academy member Samarth Bhat proposed the vote of thanks, while Ronnie Arun compered the programme.