Konkani Cultural Organisation Sets Sights on Guinness World Record with Epic Singing Marathon
In a remarkable announcement, Mandd Sobhann, recognized globally as the premier Konkani cultural organisation, has revealed plans to establish a new Guinness World Record. The ambitious endeavor involves performing more than 5,400 songs over an extraordinary duration of 12 days, 12 hours, and 12 minutes. This initiative, dubbed the World Konkani Music Mega Convention, is scheduled to take place from November 3 to November 15, aiming to unite Konkani singers from around the world in a grand celebration of their rich musical heritage.
A Tribute to a Cultural Icon
The event holds deep emotional significance as it is dedicated to the memory of Eric Ozario, a revered Konkani activist and Gurkar of Mandd Sobhann, who passed away recently. Louis Pinto, the president of Mandd Sobhann, emphasized that this convention honors Ozario's lifelong dedication to elevating the Konkani language and culture. "This convention is dedicated to Ozario, whose lifelong efforts greatly elevated the stature of the Konkani language and culture," Pinto stated, highlighting the profound impact of Ozario's work on the community.
Building on Past Achievements
This is not the first time Mandd Sobhann has ventured into the realm of world records. In 2008, the organisation secured a Guinness World Record for the 'Longest Singing Marathon by Multiple Singers,' famously known as Konkani Nirantari. That event, held over 40 hours at Kalaangann in Shaktinagar, featured 1,711 singers performing 645 Konkani songs across 44 groups. The upcoming marathon seeks to surpass this achievement, potentially earning a second Guinness World Record for the Konkani community and solidifying its place in cultural history.
Global Participation and Logistics
The record attempt will be hosted at Kalaangann, attracting participants from diverse regions including coastal Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, Mumbai, Gulf countries, Australia, and other international locations. Organizers estimate the event will incur costs of approximately Rs 1.8 crore, reflecting its scale and significance. Eligibility for participation is open to individuals aged 16 years or above as of August 1, 2026, ensuring a wide and inclusive involvement from the Konkani-speaking diaspora.
Structured Performance Format
To ensure a smooth and organized execution, each participating team will be allocated a one-hour time slot, during which they must perform between 16 and 18 songs. For teams performing in the Mangalurean Christian dialect, the organisers have prepared a curated song list spanning 18 distinct genres. Each team is required to select one song per genre from this list, promoting diversity and representation within the performances.
Inclusive Community Engagement
Louis Pinto further noted that around 300 teams are expected to participate, with the event welcoming Konkani speakers of all dialects. This includes Christians, GSBs, Kudmi, Kharvi, Siddi, Daldi, Navayati, RSBs, Daivajna, and others from India and abroad. Such inclusivity underscores the event's goal of fostering unity and celebrating the multifaceted nature of Konkani culture on a global stage.
As the Konkani community prepares for this monumental event, the World Konkani Music Mega Convention stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and cultural pride of its people, poised to make history once again.
