World Konkani Theatre Festival and Awards Ceremony 2026 in Mangaluru
The World Konkani Theatre Festival and the World Konkani Awards Ceremony 2026 will be held in Mangaluru on January 31 and February 1. The two-day cultural event will take place at T V Raman Pai Hall, Kodialbail, and is being organised to promote the Konkani language, theatre, and literary traditions.
The festival will feature performances by theatre groups from Karnataka and neighbouring states and will conclude with the presentation of prestigious awards recognising contributions to Konkani theatre and translation.
Background and Programme Schedule
The World Konkani Theatre Festival is an annual initiative of the World Konkani Centre and has emerged as a key platform for showcasing contemporary and traditional Konkani theatre. The 2026 edition will include four well-known Konkani stage productions.
On the first day, January 31, from 5.00 pm to 6.00 pm, the children’s theatre group of Sadhana Balaga, Mangaluru, led by Prakash Shenai, will stage the Konkani play “Bhakta Purandara.”
Later the same evening, from 7.00 pm to 8.00 pm, the Rang Adhyayana Kendra team from Mangaluru will present the popular Konkani play “Chike Rob (Hang On).”
Official Information from Organisers
Organisers from the World Konkani Centre have stated that the festival aims to strengthen the cultural foundation of Konkani theatre and encourage dialogue through stage performances. The event is expected to draw theatre enthusiasts from nearby districts and states.
On the second day, February 1, from 5.00 pm to 6.00 pm, the Goa-based Natarang Creations will stage the Konkani play “Hedonist.”
From 7.00 pm to 8.00 pm on the same day, Natya Niketan, Kolya, led by Karnataka Kalashree Guru Rajashree Ullal, will present the musical dance drama “Parijata Phool.”
Awards Ceremony and Cultural Significance
The awards ceremony will be held on February 1 at 6.00 pm. Senior Konkani theatre personality Francis Fernandes Cassia will receive the “Dr P Dayanand Pai World Konkani Theatre Excellence Award.”
Senior Konkani translator Maya Anil Kharangate will be honoured with the “Dr P Dayanand Pai World Konkani Translation Award” for 2026.
Why the Festival Matters to the Public
The festival serves as a cultural meeting point for artists, students, and audiences, helping preserve the Konkani language while encouraging new creative expressions. It also provides visibility to regional theatre traditions in an organised public forum.
What Is Officially Confirmed and What Is Still Under Verification
The dates, venue, list of plays, and award recipients have been officially confirmed by the World Konkani Centre. Details regarding invited guests and any additional cultural activities are expected to be announced closer to the event.
Disclosure
This report is based on official information released by the World Konkani Centre. As the event approaches, updates or changes, if any, will be reported based on verified sources.
Expert / Cultural Context
Cultural experts note that regional theatre festivals play a crucial role in sustaining language-based art forms. Such platforms support inter-generational transmission of performance traditions while adapting to contemporary themes.
FAQs
- Is the event open to the public?
Yes, the festival is open to theatre enthusiasts and the general public. - How many plays will be staged?
Four Konkani plays will be staged over two days. - Who is organising the festival?
The event is organised by the World Konkani Centre.
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