A colourful procession showcasing the rich culture and heritage of Konakni people marked the beginning of 'Ammi Konkani,' a four day Konkani convention in Mangalore on Thursday.
The procession was flagged off by Shree Rama Vidhya Kendra (Kaladka) Convenor Dr Prabhkar Bhat at Jyothi circle. Folk dances were the main highlight with the Siddhi community presenting its famous 'Pugudi dance' and Kudmi's with their 'Gumta Nach'.
Florine Saver who belongs to Siddhi Community and hails from Yellapur told Deccan Herald that 10 people from her community are taking part in the convention.
"This is a great opportunity for us to showcase our culture. Many people do not know about Siddhi people of Yellapur. We have our origin in Africa but we are Indians and Konkanis. We have a rich culture," she says.
The Nakuda Community from Shiroor won hearts with their performance with Dhaff. Chende, Veergase, Pooja Kunitha, Pattada Kunitha, Dollu Kunitha, Kamsale, Keelu Kudhure, Dolls with Yakshagana, Kathakali costumes also were a part of the procession. The procession culminated at Town Hall, the convention venue.
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