Parkonnem Kitem Tem Sang contest 2nd edition takes flight

VASCO: ‘Parkonnim   Kitem Tem Sang’ the unique riddles competition in Konkani promoted by the Chicalim Bio-Crusaders has been launched once again this year in its second edition.
As per the press release issued by Cyril A Fernandes Convenor, Chicalim Bio-Crusaders Parkonnim or Parkonnem in its singular form are Konkani riddles popular in Goa of the past. Before the advent of radio and television as a means of entertainment, Parkonnim was one of the pass-time entertainments at the village Maand or the Balcao.
The elderly would challenge the youngsters in unravelling and solving easy as well as some tough riddles through these Parkonnim testing the analytical ability, observational skills and their overall general knowledge of life from amongst the family member, neighbours or community members.
However, today with the advent of television, films and other modern forms of entertainment, Parkonnim have disappeared from the village entertainment scene.
Chicalim Bio-Crusaders, in an effort to revive this forgotten heritage of Goa, started this unique contest which is first of its kind to be held anywhere in the world. Whoever answers the maximum number of these riddles walks off with the C G Varkey Heritage Silver Rolling Trophy and a prize of Rs 5000. The rolling trophy is uniquely designed with a silver plate and super embossed with oyster shells around it. The trophy and the cash prize has been offered by George Varkey as a tribute to his father.
Besides, five runners-up will be awarded unique heritage trophies each. In addition, Nirvana, the Goan designer clothing company has offered a 50 per cent discount coupon on its range of products to each and every participant of this contest. In addition, this year, there is additional incentive of free entry for all winners and 50 per cent discount on entry for all participants of the contest at Goa Chitra, Goa Chakra and Goa Chitra Museum complex at Benaulim.
Last year, Chicalim Bio-Crusaders had offered 50 such Konkani Parkonnim through WhatsApp and YouTube which could be accessed with a link provided on the Chicalim parish website sfxchicalim.org. Raisa Fernandes and Ashley Afonso had jointly walked away with the top honours last year.
The contest had received a tremendous response from the local as well as global Goan diaspora.
This year too, the response has been more than anticipated. Goan contestants from Portugal, USA, UK besides from every village, nook and corner of Goa are vying for the coveted trophy.