A Historic First: The Cruise Sammelan
In 2027, we embark on a new chapter. For the first time ever, the Sammelan will be hosted at sea, aboard the magnificent Independence of the Seas over 5 unforgettable days.
Motiyancho Utsavu
A Pearl Jubilee community convention honoring 30 years of Konkani culture, family connection, and shared celebration across North America.
Register
Welcome Message from Co-Chairs
Note: To participate in
the Sammelan on the cruise, all attendees must register through ks27.org. After registering, you will
be directed to book your cabin exclusively through our official travel partner, Exotik Excursions.
Please note that cabins booked through any other source—including directly with Royal Caribbean—will
not be valid for entry to Sammelan events.
Motiyancho Utsavu
A Once in a Lifetime Cruise Experience
With hearts full of joy and gratitude, the North American Konkanis Association proudly invites you to celebrate Konkani Sammelan 2027 — our Pearl Jubilee, “Motiyancho Utsavu.” This milestone marks 30 extraordinary years of coming together as one community, preserving our heritage, and creating memories that span generations.
What began in 1996 with 400 Konkanis gathering in New Jersey has blossomed into a cherished tradition across North America. Each Sammelan has added a new, beautiful layer to our shared legacy — like a pearl formed over time, rare, radiant, and treasured.
A Celebration to Remember
The Pearl Jubilee Sammelan promises to be joyful, distinct, and truly unforgettable — a celebration our community will carry in their hearts for years to come.
Join Us
Join us as we honor our past, celebrate our present, and sail into a bright future together.
30 years
5 days
1 voyage
Our Story
From 400 Hearts to a Pearl Jubilee at Sea
In 1996, a shared dream brought together 400 Konkanis in New Jersey — a moment that sparked a tradition of unity, culture, and celebration. Since then, Konkani Sammelans have connected families and friends across North America, strengthening the bonds that make our community vibrant, resilient, and enduring.
The Journey
Konkani Sammelan 2027 honors that journey while opening a bold new chapter at sea. As we celebrate our Pearl Jubilee aboard Independence of the Seas, we reflect on where we began, celebrate how far we’ve come, and look forward to the future we are building together.
Sailing Forward
A legacy that started with 400 hearts now sails forward with thousands — united by heritage, community, and the joy of being Konkanis.
Why This
Event
What Makes This Special
Pearl Jubilee Inaugural Ceremony
A grand opening to honor 30 years of community, culture, and togetherness
Cultural Performances & Community Showcases
Experience the richness of Konkani talent through music, dance, theater, and creative presentations.
Konkani Music, Dance & Devotional Programs
Celebrate our heritage with soulful bhajans, energetic performances, and traditional artistry.
Family Gatherings & Youth Activities
Engaging sessions, fun events, and meaningful interactions designed for every generation
Pearl Jubilee Gala Night
A special evening dedicated to commemorating our shared journey — elegant, joyful, and unforgettable.
Made Possible
Made Possible by Our Community
Konkani Sammelan 2027 is a true community effort — a celebration shaped and supported by the dedication, passion, and teamwork of Konkanis across North America. This milestone Pearl Jubilee is brought to life through the collective contributions of:
Sammelan Co-Chairs
Their leadership, vision, and dedication anchor the Pearl Jubilee celebration, inspiring volunteers and participants alike as we embark on this unforgettable journey at sea
Ramaraya & Sulakshana Bhat
Sammelan Co-Chairs
Sandesh & Sahana Bhat
Sammelan Co-Chairs
Heads of Committees
Together, these teams ensure that every detail — from cultural performances to community gatherings — reflects the spirit, heritage, and unity of our global Konkani family.
Hospitality
Technology
Finance
Cultural
Marketing & Communication
Souvenir
Save the Dates
Mark your calendars for June 29 - July 3, 2027, as we come together for the historic Pearl Jubilee Konkani Sammelan aboard Independence of the Seas. Five days of culture, celebration, and community await — a once in a lifetime gathering at sea.
Spread the Word
Help us make this milestone truly unforgettable. Share the announcement with every Konkani family you know — near or far — and invite them to be part of this extraordinary celebration of heritage, unity, and joy. Together, let's fill the ship with the spirit of Konkani pride.
Contact
Us
Have a question? We are here to help.
We'll keep you updated with all the details.
Got
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Konkani Sammelan is a North American convention that celebrates Konkani culture, heritage, and community. It brings together families, artists, and cultural enthusiasts from across North America for a multi-day celebration.
The year 2027 marks a special milestone as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of Konkani Sammelan, commemorated as the Pearl Jubilee (Motiyancho Utsav), a celebration of three decades of preserving our heritage and strengthening the bonds of the Konkani community.
The Pearl Jubilee Konkani Sammelan will be held between June 29 - July 3, 2027, aboard a five-day Royal Carribean cruise departing from Cape Liberty Cruise Port, New Jersey(USA) and sailing to Halifax, Nova Scotia (Canada) before returning. Please check the below itinerary and join us for five unforgettable days of celebration, culture, fellowship, and fun at sea.
Day 1 - June 29: Embark from Cape Liberty (Bayonne, NJ) and set sail at 3:00 PM.
Day 2 - June 30: Enjoy a full day at sea. Konkani Sammelan welcome function, cultural events, entertainment, and cruise activities.
Day 3 - July 1: Explore beautiful Halifax, Nova Scotia (8:00 AM - 6:00 PM).
Day 4 - July 2: Full day at Sea, Konkani Sammelan activities and closing ceremony. Celebrate the day with friends and families.
Day 5 - July 3: Return to Cape Liberty (Bayonne, NJ) at 7:00 AM.
All Konkani families & relatives across North America and beyond, Anyone who share a love for Konkani culture, language, heritage, and community are warmly invited and are welcome to celebrate with us.
Please note: For the first time, our Sammelan is held aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship — which means space is strictly limited to the capacity pre-allocated to the event. Cabins are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Once our cabin block is full, registration and booking will close permanently, and we will be unable to accommodate additional guests. We strongly encourage you to register and book your cabin as early as possible."
Register using the Sammelan Registration Form on this page. We encourage all interested attendees (Samaj Bandhavas) to register early and book their cruise as soon as possible.
Important: Please complete your Sammelan registration before booking your cruise, as you will need your Sammelan Confirmation Number KS27 Registration Number issued to you to complete the cruise reservation cabin booking and be part of the Sammelan events.
No registration fee! In honor of this landmark 30th anniversary event, NAKA is proudly sponsoring the Sammelan registration fee — approximately $330 per person, waived as a gift to every community member attending. You only pay for your cruise cabin. We sincerely welcome your generous support through donations and sponsorships to help make this a truly memorable, once-in-a-lifetime Pearl Jubilee Sammelan celebration for all attendees.
Step 1 — Register for Sammelan: Complete the Registration Form on this page. You will be issued a ""KS27 Registration Number"" as your confirmation -- also sent to you by confirmation email.
Step 2 — Book your cabin: We will direct you to the booking site of our trusted travel partner, Exotik Excursions. Use your ""KS27 Registration Number"" when booking. Cabin availability is limited — book early.
Important: Cabins booked directly through Royal Caribbean or any other source will not be valid for Sammelan events. Only bookings made through Exotik Excursions are recognized.
The cruise departs from New Jersey, USA, visits Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, and returns to New Jersey. All guests are responsible for carrying valid travel documents required for entry into both the United States and Canada.
For questions about the Sammelan — registration, programme, events, or general inquiries — email us at support@ks27.org. We will respond within 3 business days.
For all cruise cabin booking queries — including changes, and cancellations — contact our trusted travel partner Exotik Excursions directly at bookings@exotikexcursions.com (WhatsApp: 587-982-4004)