Many changes like the Cretaceous period were responsible for forming the familiar planet known to people globally as earth. Changes are evident throughout human history, and it shapes the course of the future. The latest change to impact people is the lockdown, imposed due to the increasing coronavirus cases. While the increasing rate of infections and deaths are terrible, almost every news channel is a constant reminder of the gloom called ‘COVID-19’ which surrounds people. Though the ripple effects of the increasing infections are horrible, and people are terrified about what may happen, it is hope that will push people forward beyond this crisis. Hope can begin at home by strengthening the immunity system of people, and following guidelines which the government has requested people to follow. When people stick to the safety measures which protect them, they will come out stronger of this current crisis. This crisis can emerge as a teacher for people globally.
States like Goa which already faced issues before the crisis, can implement steps to preserve its beauty, and culture going forward. Preserving the language of Goa is a huge part of this. A man of many talents, Mr. Michael Jude Gracias is responsible for preserving Konkani in diverse ways. Going beyond ‘tiatr’ or ‘Konkani dramas’ he found numerous ways to serve Konkani. Being an editor and a publisher of a monthly magazine in Konkani titled ‘Jivit’ for fifteen years, before discovering the anchor within him, Michael Gracias went on to anchor a program called ‘Chitrangi’ on ‘Doordarshan’ for thirty years along with doing a wonderful job on a Catholic T.V channel called ‘CCRTV’. Putting his brilliant thoughts on paper, he brought about six Konkani, and 1 English book, apart from being a publisher of other writers. As of 2020, Mr. Michael Gracias embraced the digital age by starting a Youtube channel called “Kala Niketan Goa” which utilizes a creative blend of promoting Konkani, youngsters, and God’s love.
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| Mr. Michael Jude Gracias |
Saving the beautiful language of Goa cannot be accomplished alone. Many brave individuals like Mr. Dadadiraj M. Shirodkar have been striving to balance their jobs, along with contributing to Konkani. Initially starting out as a freelancer in video editing, before joining ‘CCRTV’ in 2017, he started a channel in 2015 called ‘Dadadiraj Films’ in which he brings out innovative short films and documentaries, on social issues. Extending a mere language, Konkani played a vital role in the historic ‘Opinion Poll’ the details of which are available on various websites including Wikipedia, which enables people to get an idea of what it is. Placing an emphasis on the ‘Opinion Poll’ shouldn’t be about dividing people, rather it should remind people of the passion that led to the formation of Goa, and replicating that passion, especially in times when the lockdown is failing to prevent the destruction of Goa, which was indicated when farmers were arrested for protesting against their lands being grabbed, and the ongoing issue of double tracking which is not favoured by the locals.
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| Mr. Dadadiraj M. Shirodkar |
