(Natural Nutrition and as a Diabetes Educator)
Pioneering Voices: Celebrating Leeza Rodrigues, Mangaluru’s FavoritePodcastHost
The women of Mangaluru have a proud history of leadership and achievement,excellingineducation, arts, media, enterprise, and social change with strength, grace and passion.
Whether it is Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Shilpa Shetty, Genelia D’Souza Deshmukh, or Freida Pinto from the entertainment world; record-setting Bharatanatyam dancers like Remona Pereira and Vidushi Deeksha V; award-winning authorandoratorReshelFernandes; MamathaPoojary’striumphsonthe kabaddi court; Anuradha Bhat’s versatile playback singing in Kannada films; or dynamic business leaders and social workers like ShobhaMendonca,Dr.RakshaBhat, and the late Octavia Albuquerque, women from Karnataka’s coastal regionhaveconsistentlyledtheway ineverysphere.
Adding another milestone to the city’s legacy of pioneers is Leeza
Rodrigues: former banker, lecturer, accomplished MC, writer, public speaker, voice dubbing artist, Diabetic Educator, beloved wife of JaisonDcunha,motheroftwo,anda celebratedpodcasthost.
Gifted with multiple talents yet remarkably humble, Leeza possesses a personality that truly deserves to be celebrated and knownbytheworld.
Leeza, born to the late Oswald Rodrigues and Mrs. Leena Rodrigues, grew up surrounded by love and encouragement, even as herfamilyfacedfinancial hardships. Thanks to the kindness of many generous souls who supported her
education, she was able to rise above those challenges and shape aninspiringlifeofherown.
A graduate in BBM from St. Agnes College, Mangalore, and later an MBA from St. Joseph Engineering College, Vamanjoor, Leeza has always been driven by a deep passion for learning. Her career journey includes teaching at Padua Degree College and serving as a Credit Analyst at Invest Bank, Sharjah (2014–2021), where she discovered and strengthened her talent for communication and engagingwithpeople. She has pursued additional certifications in Natural Nutrition and as a Diabetes Educator. In January2023,sheandherhusband, Jaison D’Cunha, co-founded the NaturalTherapyClinicinVamanjoor, offering holistic treatments such as neurotherapy, acupressure, acupuncture,cupping,dryneedling, brain stimulation,and Nadi Shastra. Their clinic provides drug-free healing for patients with diabetes, chronic pain, paralysis, and various otherailments.
However,hercareertookadefining Turn when she began hosting
Carmel Cafe, the widely acclaimed Konkani-language podcast, captivating listeners with her engaging conversations and bringing fresh energy to regional storytelling. Far from being limited to lighthearted chatter, the show invites voices from varied fields, creating space for meaningful stories, perspectives, and experiences that resonate deeply withitsaudience.
Spanning approximately 50-60 minutes, each episode welcomes a guest from a distinct field, offering not only their personal stories but also engaging in remarkably
thoughtful and enriching conversations.
Carmel Cafe showcases a diverse array of guests, including professionals and creators such as VJ Dixon, Alwyn Danthy, Dr. Lenon D’Souza, Dr. Velita Lobo, Leo Zalki, LucyLobo,RemonaPereira,Wencita Dias, Denzil Periera, Dr. Judy Pinto, Dr. Sharon Rasquinha, Jeeth Roche, Stany Bela, Ashwin D’ Costa, Jason Lobo, Rayan Magneto, Sr. Severine, Brian Sequeira, Jostin D’Sa, Dr. Kelvin,Fr.PraveenLasrado,Dr.Sarita Lobo, Sapna Vamanjoor, Sarah D’Souza, Capt. Ruben Nazareth, Michael D’Souza, Sabitha, Ronson Lewis and Adv. Lolina Lobo, among others.
The show has reached the glorious 50th episodewithDaijiworldfounder Mr. Walter Nandalike as the milestoneepisodeguest.
The episodes explore a wide range of topics, including health, psychology, relationships, artificial intelligence, music copyrights, societal pressures, finance, road safety, traffic rules, cybercrime, moral theology, sex education, religion and blind beliefs and more. These discussions not only raise awarenessbutalsoprovidevaluable
insightsforlistenersofallages. In addition, she hosted Daijiworld TV’s acclaimed series Namaskar Mestri , which brings the inspiring stories and accomplishments of retired educators to life for its audience.
Knownforherwarmandthoughtful questions, Leeza quickly became a favorite among listeners. She naturally creates a sense of ease for both her guests and listeners. Listening to her feels like having a heartfelt conversation with a family member in your own mother tongue.
A deeply spiritual and God-fearing person, she humbly credits her success to the unwavering support of her husband, the love of her wonderful children,her parentsand family and above all, the grace of God.Shebelievesthatwithouttheir encouragement, understanding,
and divine guidance, it would not have been possible for her to balance her time and dedicate herself wholeheartedly to her work. Since childhood, growing up in a Catholic home, spirituality has been rootedinherpersonality.
As the middle child, Leeza shares a specialplaceinherfamily.Herelder sister,TreezaJaneRodrigues,resides inKuwaitwithherhusbandandtwo lovely children, while her younger brother, Fr. Aaron Babush OCD, embraced his spiritual calling as a Carmelite priest and was ordained in June 2022. Though miles apart, distance has never diminished the warmth of their relationship, and their connection remains strong, boundbyloveandmutualsupport.
Leeza finds great joy in her two children, Jonathan Luke (2017) and Joanne Liezel (2019). She often refers to herself as a ‘strict mom,’ focusing on nurturing them with discipline, strong values, and the hope of shaping them into role models for society. Devoted to her family, she loves preparing special meals for them and believes that they are far more valuable than any riches or world wealth. For her, success means raising a happy and healthy family over all the other achievementsandlaurels.
Beyond her other passions, Leeza writes regularly in Konkani, contributing to NamanBallokJesu (monthly, Infant Jesus Shrine, Carmel Hill), Uzwaad (fortnightly, Udupi Diocese), and several parish magazines throughout Mangalore.
As a visiting trainer and resource person, she also conducts health talks, leads training programs, and has judged numerous college managementevents.
Life has not always been smooth or easyforher.Shehasfacedcountless challenges and hardships along the way, yet each obstacle has shaped her character, teaching her resilience, patience, and the
importance of staying true to her principles. She gives full credit to her husband, who has always been a strong pillar of support. Without him, balancing her time and responsibilities would not have been possible, and she thanks God for blessing her with such a wonderful partner. With him by her side,herlifebloomswithhappiness andlove.
Leezaisashiningexampleofaselfmade individual who has always
stood up for her rights and lives by the belief that spreading happiness and love can heal the world, with humanity taking precedence over religion. Coming from a humble background, she values both societal respect and support, and is deeply committed to giving back, working tirelessly to contribute to the upliftment of the community at large.
Photo Gallery: Fond Memories of LeezaRodrigues:
The team at Veez warmly
congratulatesLeezaRodriguesfor her outstanding contributions to the Konkani language. Through her online podcast, she offered a distinguished platform for celebratedgueststoshareglimpses of their lives, establishing herself as a pioneer in amplifying their voices and bringing them closer to the public.
We extend our best wishes for her continued success, as her podcast beautifully blends information with entertainment, inspiring and delightingcountlesslisteners.
StoryCovered by:PrinsonD’lima
"Sanidhya” A Memorable September 2025.
A few days back in this September 2025,aconstructivecelebrationwas heldtocheerourspecialchallenged studentsandTeacher'sDay,agrand and meaningful format with the stampofSanidhya.Appreciatingthe untiring commitment and dedicationofourstudents,teachers and specially our generous contributors,towardsbringingalot of sunshine in the lives of our 200
plus Mentally Challenged beautiful ChildrenofSaanidhya.
The management of 'SANIDHYA’ took this golden opportunityto register our gratitude with a BIG THANKYOU TO.... Ms. JOY (JOYCE) SALDANHA - COFFEE PLANTER, for so kindly and generously sponsoring the whole celebration, she made a great effort to also gracetheoccasionastheChief
Guest. We also had a great generouslady, a personificationof careandconcern,asocialactivistof MangaloreMs.TILLYPERES-wifeof late Mr. John Peres COFFEE PLANTER. Ms. Tilly who is a big donor of ourinstitution andaregular person showing concern to such humanitarian efforts, a very concerned social activistandrenderingahandwhere itwillhelphumanitariancauses,also gracedourcelebrationsasaSpecial Guest. Then thewell-known philanthropistand socialfigure Mr. Santosh Sequeira, who is a big
supporterofSaanidhyaalsograced theoccasionasaSpecialGuest.
All at Saanidhya were very touched with their presence and appreciation. The celebrations startedinthemorningwithamultifaithprayerwithversesrecitedfrom Quran,BibleandBhagavadGitaand the traditional lighting of the lamp. Thiswasfollowedbyahearty breakfastforallthosepresentinthe school. Enjoyable games were organisedforonlytheteachersand support staff, and everyone had a goodtimeseeingtheirteachers
running, competing and winning prizes.
Morning celebration ended with a sumptuous lunch and delicious dessert. Post lunch was the official Teacher's Day function where the Late Shri Radhakrishna was remembered with flowers and rose petals followed by stage performances by our students paying tribute to our teachers and thankingthemforselflesslyworking forthestudents'improvement. Asa tokenofappreciationandgratitude, sarees(sponsoredbyMsBaliga)and
cash rewards (sponsored by Mr MBD Rao) were handed over to each teacher and support staff numbering more than 70 of them. Besides a few speakers, Mr. Eric Dsouza also spoke about the generosity of Ms Joy and Ms Tilly and requested them for their continued support and encouragement to Saanidhya and the special students. The program ended with singing of the National Anthem followed by typical Mangaloreansnacksandtea/coffee buffet. It was a day that will be rememberedforalongtimeto
come and Sanidya's gratitude and development will only become stronger.
'Saanidhya' - GODs Assurance: SaanidhyaGroup of Institutions' Mr. Eric Dsouza, AdvisoryBoardMember,soonafter the recent visit of Capt. Brijesh Chowta, present MP of Dakshina Kannada(Mangalore)expressinghis gratitude for the MP's concern and consideration said that the MP visited the 'Saanidhya Special School' and its developed facilities and services due to hard work of
dedicated people. The MP during his recent visit spent time with all the challenged children and teachersshowingkeeninterestinall aspects. By the time the MP was through after an hour of deep-dive interactions, he not only became a little emotional but also assured us ofbringingalittlebitmoresunshine intothelivesofthechildrenandthe entire ecosystem. He asked for a memorandum of as-yet unheeded requestsmadetotheauthoritiesso farandanynew demandsif any. A suitable document was ready, hoping he would ask for the same,
whichwasthen gladlyhanded over to the MP. "We are all pretty confidentthathewillbeabletodo somethingpositiveandeasealittle of the weight on our already burdened shoulders". And the challenged children will get substantial relief in the long term, whichisveryvital.
InarecentspecialpleaEricDsouza, (who settled in Mangalore from Mumbai)in an article in the media hopefully has caught the attention and concern of people who can uplift the suffering category which needs reaching out to immediately. Although facilities existatthenational,state,andlocal levels, it is still heart-breakingly evident that a comprehensive, fully functional support structure for these children and their families is painfully lacking especially when compared with the facilities available in other scenarios, where such children are considered as “privileged citizens” and benefit from structured lifelong care facilities, with structures in place practically benefitting the affected withacomprehensive“FromWomb To Tomb” cover and
guarantees/assurances, particularly aftertheparentsarenomore.
Parentingachildwithspecialneeds whomustbehelpedandsupported in everything that she/he must do can place immense strain on family life,familyrelationships,health,and careers. Many families' ability to focus on their work is severely compromised,aswastheirhopefor an ordinary family life. Although theyeventuallylearnedtocope,the most pressing question remains unanswered: Who will care for their ward after they are gone? Whowilllookafterher/him? Even if they manage to save and invest for their wards, they will always require dedicated personal support and someone to help navigate everyday tasks including the most private and personal. In India, where official records do not properly account for children and adults like these, there is no substantial, unified system to ensuretheywillbecaredforinlater life after the death of their parents, which is onlyassuredbythe Almighty.
****Readersandpublicwhowishto
know more about this great institution and render services and help,mayhaveuseofthefollowing contact details : # Saanidhya Residential School & Training Centre for the Mentally Challenged,Near Water Tank, Shakthinagar,Mangaluru – 575016, DK Karnataka, India.... Call : +91 9448215397, +91 9686445397, 0824 –
gmail.com, vasanth@saanidhya.org....
JAWAHARLALNEHRU: ARCHITECT OF MODERN INDIA & THE NON-ALIGNED MOVEMENT.
ByPascalAlanNazareth, AmbassadorofIndiatoEgypt.
Jawaharlal Nehru (JN), born in one of India’s wealthiest families, studied,intheeliteBritishschoolof Harrow & graduated from Trinity College, Cambridge University with a degree in Natural & Political Sciences, History & Economics. He
also secured a law degree from CambridgeUniversity&returnedto Indiain1912.In1917hejoinedthe Home Rule League. However, his political transformation came in 1919whenhemetMahatmaGandhi & participated in his Civil
Disobedience
‘Satyagraha’. Thereafter he gave up his western clothes & wore only handspun ‘Khadi’ Kurtas & a ‘Gandhi cap’ made of the same material. Some months later, his father Motilal Nehrudidlikewise. AntonyCopley,inhisbook ‘Gandhi
Against the Tide’ has written “Gandhi’s moral influence on his followers was astonishing. They were all men who might have pursued successful professional or administrativecareers.Moststriking was the conversion of Motilal Nehru,a highly westernized lawyer, who abandoned the habits of a lifetime,&joinedhissonJawaharlal inthewearingofKhadiclothes.”
Martin Green has written likewise “Motilaldrovetothelawcourtswith liveried servants behind a fine pair ofhorsesandlivedinahousecalled
Anand Bhavan, equipped with modern English comforts including winesandcigars.Whenhefollowed Jawaharlal into Gandhi’s camp, everything in his lifestyle changed from Englishness to Indianness, from modernity to tradition, from splendour to simplicity. The Anand Bhavan bonfire of foreign cloth
must have been one of the biggest mostsacrificial.”Thesewerenotthe only sacrifices the Nehru family madeforIndia’sfreedomstruggle. Between 1917 & 1947 Jawaharlal Nehru served nine imprisonments andspent3259days,(9 years) asa “politicalprisoner”.
India was partitioned on religious lines at midnight of August 14, 1947.ThenewstateofPakistanhad two parts, one in the east & the other in west of India, with 1500 milesofIndianterritoryinbetween! Thisatrociousgeographicalsurgery was made based on a “Partition Line” drawn by a British Cartographer who had never been in India before & knew nothing of its political & social complexities. Worse still, this ‘Partition Line’ was announced two days after India & Pakistan secured their Independence. The mass exodus of Hindus & Sikhs from Pakistan to India & of Muslims from India to Pakistan resulted in the worst communalmassacresinIndia’slong history.EncyclopediaBritannicahas written about them as follows. : “ Division of British India into the independent countries ofIndiaandPakistan was set to
takeeffectonAugust15.Thisrapid partition led to a population transfer of unprecedented magnitude, accompanied by devastating communal violence, as some 15,000,000Hindus,Sikhs&Muslim srushed to cross the hastily demarcated borders. Estimates of the number of people killed range from200,000to2,000,000”.
Despite beingpartitioned on religious lines & suffering its blood drenched consequencesIndia decided to establish a secular state based on universal adult franchise. In the Constitution it framed & which came into effect on January 20, 1950, its millennial scourge of ‘Untouchability” was criminalized & freedoms of speech, to assemble peacefully, to practice any profession or business& freely profess & propagate religion
subject to public order, wereensured.
In Prime Minster Jawaharlal Nehru (PMJN)’s first Cabinet Maulama Abul Kalam Azad (a Muslim) was MinsterforEducation,SardarBaldev Singh (a Sikh) was Minster for Defence, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur (a Christian) was Minster for Health & Dr Bhim Rao Ambedar (an ‘Untouchable”)wasMinisterforLaw & later became Chairman of the Constitution Drafting Committee & aBuddhist.
Indiawasveryfortunatetohavehad JNasitsfirstPrimeMinister.Henot only had the already mentioned elite education at Harrow & Cambridge,healsohad30 yearsof political activity under Gandhi’s inspired leadership. Besides he had spent11yearsinprisonandduring this period had authored three books on Indian & World history. Having visited the Soviet Union in 1927 he had seen how a backward
feudaleconomy&societycouldbe transformed into powerful, modern state with national planning, technological education & industrialization. This was his vision forIndia.
IntheinitialphasehisGovtfocussed on setting up technical schools & hospitals & building dams & irrigationcanals,Inthenextphaseit built steel mills, machine tool & locomotiveplants&shipyards&set upengineering &medicalcolleges, Indian Institutes of technology & Management & National Institutes ofResearch.Notableamongthelast mentioned were NationalPhysical Research Laboratory(NPRL),Indian CouncilofMedicalResearch(ICMR), Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI)&Central Marine Fisheries ResearchInstitute(CMFRI).
The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) was established in August 1954&washeadedbyPMJN.Itwas to manage “all matters related to atomic energy, as outlined in theAtomicEnergyAct,1948.Itsfirst outcome was theBhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) which was
locatedatTrombay,ontheoutskirts of Bombay.India's first atomic reactor, ‘Apsara”, was activated at BARConAugust4,1956,&formally inaugurated by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru onJanuary 20, 1957.(Itcurrently has22 nuclear reactors, spread across seven nuclear power plants in various sites, which produce 6,780 MW of electricity)
The Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR) was also set up in 1954. Renamed as ISRO, (Indian Space Research Organisation) in 1969 &. locatedinBengaluru, it handlesspace exploration& international space collaborations. Its first satellite ‘Aryabhata” was launched bySovietspace agencyInterkosmosin 1975. (In August 23, 2023 itsChandrayan 3 made a successful landing on the Moon'ssouthpolarregion,itsmost challenginglandingarea.
During PMJN’s tenure (1947 -64) India also emerged as founder / Leader of the Non-Aligned Movement. Its ideology was enunciated by PMJN a few months before India’s independence. It was in consonance with Gandhi’s assertion “Through the deliverance of India, I seek to deliver the socalled weakerracesoftheworld”.
On September 7, 1946, in a radio broadcast, he stated “We propose asfaraspossible,tokeepawayfrom the power politics of groups, aligned against one another. This hasledin the pastto worldwars & could again lead to disasters on an even vast scale. We are particularly interested in the emancipation of colonial countries & in equal opportunitiesforallraces.
In March 1947 he convened the Asian Relations Conference at New Delhi & averred at it: “For too long we Asians have been petitioners in Western Courts and Chancelleries. That story must now belong to the past. We propose to stand on our own feet. We do not intend to be playthings ofothers’”.
In an address to the UN General Assembly on November 3rd, 1948, he averred “I am not afraid of the future. I am not afraid of the bigness of great powers, their armies, their fleets & atom bombs. That is the lesson my mentor Mahatma Gandhi taught me. We stoodas unarmedpeopleagainst a powerful empire. We succeed because we decided not to submit to evil. I do not know if this approach will succeed in handling theproblemstheworldfacestoday, butIfirmlybelieveifwebanishfear, have confidence in ourselves, we may take risks of trust rather than indulge in violent language & actions&thusavertwar”
At the April 1955 Afro- Asian ConferenceatBandunginIndonesia the29participantcountriesformally decided to create the Non-Aligned Movement(NAM).WhenPresidents JosipBrozTitoofYugoslavia&Fidel Castro of Cuba joined it in 1956 it
became a global peace movement, thelargestinworldhistory.
Antony Copley, in his book ‘Gandhi Against the Tide’ has written “Gandhian style resistance to apartheid was part of the wider struggle against colonialism and neo-colonialism. With India being the first colonial society to acquire independence,itwasinevitablethat Gandhi’s method and Nehru’s moving spirit in the Non-Aligned Movement, became increasingly importantininternationalaffairs” WhenIndiajoinedtheUN,itwasits 43rd member. It presently has 193 membersofwhom120areinNAM, which also has 17 ‘countries & 10 organizationsas‘Observers’. PMJNdiedonMay27,1964.Among the innumerable tributes paid to him the most notable are the following:
US PresidentLyndon B. Johnson : "History has already recorded his monumental contribution to the molding of a strong and independentIndia.Andyet,itisnot just as a leaderof India that he has served humanity. Perhaps more than any other world leader he has given expression to man's yearning for peace. This is the issue of our age.“
British Prime Minister:Alec Douglas-Home:"Mycolleaguesand I are deeply distressed to learn of Mr. Nehru's death. He was the architect of modern India, a wise and far-sighted world statesman, and above all an eminent and respected Commonwealth leader. His death will be a grievous loss to the Commonwealth and to the world.”
Lord Louis Mountbatten: “Jawaharlal Nehru was one of the greatest figures in history. The world is the poorer for his passing. He was a most magnanimous man
who never showed the slightest personal resentment at being kept for many years in prison by the British. He was a great fighter for Indian freedom, and when his life’s workwascrownedwithsuccess,he was a big enough man to extend India’s hand of friendship to Britain.”
President Lyndon Johnson: “I will always treasure my all too brief association with Prime Minister Nehru. His comfort at the time of the assassination of President Kennedy was a great source of strengthtome.Thatweshouldlose this great man so soon after our own loss grieves us more deeply than we can expect. His leadership and wisdom were indispensable at its most critical years and his devotion to the great Indian adventure of freedom was unwavering”.
SovietPresidentNikitaKhrushchev:
“Prime Minister Nehru was a passionate fighter for world peace and an ardent champion of the principles of peaceful coexistence of states; He was founder of the Non-Alignment Movement. This wise policy won India global
respect and high profile in the internationalarena.”
U Thant, the UN Secretary General:
“
Fewmenofthisagehavelefttheir markonthehistoryoftheircountry ashehas.Responsibleashewasfor the policies of one of the largest countries in the world, he had affectedthecourseofworldevents. India should know that in her hour ofgriefhersorrowsissharedbyall ofusin theUnitedNations,”
President Gamal Abdel Nasser:
“Prime Minister Nehru’s death is a great loss for India. His life was a torch which illuminated Asia and the World. Mr. Nehru was the beacon light not only for the people of India but the whole humanity”. (GooglePhotos)
Memories of Dasara: The Story of Balarama
Dasara is memorable for more than onereason.Mostimportantofthem all is the Dasara holidays. It was a break from the school routine for State Government run Schools. In the 1970’s when we were in school CBSE schools (except Kendriya Vidyalayas) which do not give Dasara holidays were almost nonexistent in ourarea. Itwas thetime for children to go behind the Huli Vesha , Karadi Vesha,Anarkali and such other performers without any sense of time or distance. Today children are rarely seen following thedancetroupe.Thentheseevents were not commercialized although prizes used to be given to the best troupe.
PerumalMurugan,thefamousTamil writer who faced life threat from fundamentalists selected the goat as the main character of his new bookPoonachi.HesaysthatinIndia if one talks about people there are controversies relating to caste and religion,andifonetalksaboutcows
there are murders. Hence, he selected the goat as it is harmless. When Banu Mushtaq, the International Booker prize winner for Kannada short stories was selected to inaugurate Mysore Dasara this year there was controversy proving Murugan right. Therefore, I have selected an elephantasthesubjectofmyarticle. Itisnon-controversial.
On the final day of the Mysore Dasara thousands of people from India and abroad gather near the Mysore Palace to witness the long procession led by the Elephants carrying the statue of Goddess Chamundeshwari. Over the years elephants like Drona, Balarama, Arjuna, Abhimanyu have received thehonourofcarryingtheGoddess Chamundeshwariontheirback.The visitors enjoy the procession and wonder at the majestic movement of the decorated Dasara elephants. Out of sight out of mind. No one
thinks about the elephants thereaftertillthenextDasara.
On 10 October 2018, a philatelic cover depicting Balarama with the cancellation of the elephant carryingthe Howdawasalsoissued by the Karnataka Postal Circle (Department of Posts). This is the only philatelic cover dedicated to theDasaraelephantwhichhadthe honour of carrying Goddess Chamundeshwari for 11 years. For that reason, it is a unique philatelic cover.(Picbelow)
During the Dasara inauguration in 2018, the book Balarama’sStoryAnElephant’sJourneywritten by D. K. Bhaskar and Alladi Jayasri was released by the Chief Minister. As the book is meant for children the story has been told with beautiful illustrations drawn by Yati Siddakatte. (pic below) Bhaskar is originally from Mysore and now living in Maryland, just outside Washington DC. He is passionate about elephants and supports
conservation efforts. It is the story of an elephant that was uprooted from its natural home in the forest to later attain iconic status as a Royal Elephant in Mysore Dasara. The book recommends freedom for elephants.
BalaramawasborninNagaraholein 1956. The opening sentence of the book is as follows: “One chilly morninginNagaraholeforest,Baby Balaramafollowedhisauntoutof theirwateringhole.AuntieAaney washeadedfortheirfavouritespot inthecoolwatersoftheKabini.The
otherbabies,Arjuna,Bhima,Nakula and Mohini were already there. Balarama,thenaughtiestoneofall , wasalwayslast.” Inthefirstchapter Aunty Aaney told them the story abouthowelephantscametoearth. Elephants had been on this beautifulearthfor5.5millionyears.
“In those days Gods roamed on the earth just like us. We were all very happy. We already lived in heaven”, she told the baby elephants. When the humans arrived on the scene, Gods left the world because they foundmandangerous.Theywentto another heaven. Elephants did not go with them because theyfelt that
theywerestrongandpowerful;that man can do no harm to them. They don’t have trunks or tusks. The elephants laughed. Only the Airavata, the white elephant joined theGods.
Aunty Aaney was the Queen of the herd, and everybody obeyed her. Baby elephants played with one another under her watch. Balarama was four months old and Arjuna six months old. She would protect them from tigers, dogs, crocodiles andotherenemies.Theywouldvisit Kakanakote, on the other side of Kabini river very often which was theirfavouritespot.
OnedayAuntyAaneytoldthemthe story of Emperor Ashoka who had 700elephantsinhisarmytobeused during the war to kill the enemies. Many elephants died in the war. Balarama wanted to know how elephants became subservient to humans. Aunty Aaney told him about the Khedda. He was alarmed. She told them about elephant poachers who kill them for their tusks. She told them not to go astray and never come closer to human settlements. One day Aunty Aaney died due to old age and was replacedbyChikkiAaney.
Menaremen.Onedaymencameto Nagarahole forest to catch an elephant to be trained as a substitute for Drona. Balarama was interested in the sugarcane found nearby. But it did not know that it was kept by the forest guards. He fell into a pit. When he woke up, he couldnotmoveandhefoundropes everywhere.Hefoundhimselfinside a cage mounted on a truck which was moving. “I wish I were dead”, Balarama thought. He cried a lot. They made him eat ragi balls and punishedhimwhenhedidnotobey which they called taming. Sannappa, the trainer (Mahout) assured him that he would look after him and introduce him to Drona. Sannappa was frustrated with every attempt at Balarama to escape.
He was then taken to Dubare elephant camp. There were seven elephants and one of them was Arjunawhohadbeencaughtonthe samedayBalaramawascaught,and this was not known to Balarama. Theyweremeetingforthefirsttime. He was commanded by Annayya. HerehealsometDrona,thebiggest elephant. They watched Drona kneeling and followed him. They
learnt to do everything what Drona was doing. He was taught how to bendandbowandraisehistrunkto throw flowers at Chamundeshwari; march with other elephants from the royal palace to the Banni Mantap. That is how Balarama becameapartoftheJambooSavari. Sannappa and Balarama became good friends. After three months of training in Dubare they moved to MysorefortheDasara.
After training for many days in the city, they were taught to march in a particular order. Drona was the leader, followed by Govinda. Balarama and Arjuna were the last pair to follow. After circling the ground several times, they returned to the stables. They were given ragi balls, jaggery and horse gram. They were given bath and massage. They learnttoadjusttotrafficnoise,firing cannons, the band playing, and the visitors. On the last day Drona carried Goddess Chamundeshwari andothersfollowed.
Drona had become old. After 9 years of doing the job Drona was relieved from carrying the Goddess and Balarama took over that job. HewillbetheAmbarielephantfrom now onwards. He appeared on the
TV and became very popular. After missingthe10th Dasara, Drona died atDubareCamp.Balaramawasvery depressed after this. Then he became across Indira, the female elephant. Two years later they became parents. The baby was named Krishna. He was the first baby elephant to be born in the camp in 50 years. Krishna would replace Balarama in due course of time. The practice was started 450 yearsago.
When Balarama told Krishna about his younger days in Kabini, KakanakoteandNagaraholehewas puzzled.Hehadnotseenatiger.He had been brought up in captivity in the Dubare elephant camp and had notexperienced thefreedom ofthe Jungle. The authors try to show the life of an elephant in captivity and freedom enjoyed by Balarama before his capture. The authors pleadforfreedomfortheelephants intheirnaturalhabitat.
Thisbookisnotfiction.Bornin1956 the Mysuru Dasara elephant Balarama died onMay 7, 2023, at the age of 67 at the Bhimanakatte elephant camp in Karnataka, likely from age-related illnesses including tuberculosis.Balarama was a
beloved elephant known for carrying the golden howdah during the Mysuru Dasara procession for 14 consecutive years between 1999 and 2011. Itweighed 4990 Kg while in service and its height was 2.7 metres(8ft.10inches). Thisisaverygoodbooktobegiven asabirthdaygifttochildren.Asitis beautifully illustrated children will enjoy reading it. It will certainly createawarenessabout wildlife and environment. Schools should buy this book. The original price of this book is Rs 949, but it is now available for Rs500 only. Those who are interested in buying this book can send request to mobile No 8275381664.
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DrCharles Lobo
The Secrets of the Success of Eric Ozario
On Friday, 29th August 2025, Eric Ozario, the legendary hero and stalwart of Konknni language, music, dance, theatre, culture, and performing arts left this planet. As I havesaidatthehomilyofhisfuneral on31stAugust,hedoesn’tneedour tears, condolences, eulogies, flowers,wreaths,bouquets,candles, and monuments. He expects from usthatweKonknnisspeakKonknni, readKonknniinanyscript,promote
Konknni, and support those who selflesslyworkforKonknni.
WhatwerethesecretsofEricforhis success in his mission? As far as I know, the following were his main traits.
1.Manofvisionanddreams.Hewas an exceptional visionary and dreamer. Only the sky could be the limit to his foresighted vision. He always dreamt big dreams and therefore he achieved great things. Failures, hurdles, difficulties, and negative criticism didnot deter him from continuing to pursue dreams and actualize them as reality. It is said "Where there is no vision, the people perish." Eric gave the vision to Konknnis so that they may take pride and work for their language andculture.
2. Man of action. Colin Powell has rightly said “A dream doesn’t
become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination, and hard work.” Eric worked hard to achieve his dreams and vision. He didn’t expect others to realize his dreams. Once he laid his hands on the plough, he never looked or shook behind. He had the gift, art, and skill to convince others about his dreams and invite them to become partners in his vision and mission.
3. Man of discipline. It is said that Motivationiswhatgetsyoustarted. Discipline is what keeps you going. Inhispersonallifeandinhis works, he was a great disciplinarian tothecore.Hedidn’ttouchalcohol, softdrinks,orcolddrinks.Healways drank warm or room temperature clean water. He enjoyed nourishing seafood.Hemeticulouslyplannedin detail all the aspects of his cultural programmes.Hesawthattheystart in time and end in time. Nobody could beat him for time management.
4. Man of coordination. "Coming together is the beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success." wrote Henry
Ford. Eric believed in teamwork. He created his own team and kept them together with his charism. He will discover the talents of his colleagues and assign them tasks according to their talents and strengths. He had the gift of winning over people through encouragement and gentle pressure. He praised his teammates when they did well. At the same time, he never felt shy to correct themwith positivecriticism. He was a task master. He walked through the talk. While developing his own talents, he gave opportunity to countless artists to come forward anddisplaytheirtalentsandskills.
5. Man of generosity. "A little thought and a little kindness are often worth more than a great deal of money,” said Kahlil Gibran. Though Eric’s resources were meagre, he was always generous both in words and deeds to his colleagues and especially towards theneedy.Ericfirmlybelievedinthe following words of Mother Teresa, "It'snothowmuchwegivebuthow muchloveweputintogiving".
6.Manof principlesandvalues.Eric livedthewordsofMahatmaGandhi
"Your beliefs become your thoughts. Your thoughts become your words. Your words become your actions. Your actions become your habits. Your habits become your values. Your values become your destiny". Eric never compromised his principles and values. Due to this he built up his personalitywithintegrity.
7.Manofopenness.Thoughhehad his own views, he was always open to the views of others, if they convinced him with logic and reasoning. Though he read and wroteKonknniinKannadascript,he was the champion to promote justice for other scripts of Konknni. Hefirmlybelievedintheprincipleof “Unity in diversity” and always vociferously opposed the principle of “Unity in uniformity”. He was a manofdialogue.
8. Man of inclusivism. "Unity, not uniformity, must be our aim. We attain unity only through variety. Differences must be integrated, not annihilated, not absorbed." Said Mary Parker Follett. Eric transcended the narrow walls of regionalism (Mangalorean and
Goans), religion, caste, language, culture, colour, gender, age, social status, etc. He always welcomed others to join him and to work for the promotion of Konknni and to build up a just society based on equality,sharing,andunity.
9. Man of dynamism. He was never satisfied with the status quo and wasalwaysonthemovetoorganize greater and better events. These mega events increased his energy. “Theonlywaytodogreatworkisto love what you do.” Said Steve Jobs. Eric’s passion and mission was Konknnifor24x7.
10.Manofcreativityandoriginality. He was never satisfied with walking on the same paths set by others or his own previous paths. Every time he came up with original and creative ideas not only for his composition of music but also for functionsandevents.Hesethisown patheachtimeandwalkedalongit. "Imagination is the beginning of creation. You imagine what you desire, you will what you imagine, and at last, you create what you will." wrote George Bernard Shaw. Ericdidthesame.
Each person is unique and specific. All the same, if we imbibe some of the traits of Eric, we too can-do wonders in our own fields. Eric has notgone.HeisaliveatKalaangann, Mangaluru. Moreover, he lives in the hearts of his family members, followers, colleagues, friends, fans, and foes. Great people don’t die; they always live as resurrected peopleforever.MaythetribeofEric increase.
PratapanandaNaik,sj 25thSeptember2025
PratapanandaNaik,SJ
ID:<pratapnaiksj@gmail.com>
DO WE NEED JUBILEE CELEBRATION?
RoshanDsouza, Kinnigoly
Jubileeisafamiliarwordweallhave heardabout.Ajubileeisaparticular anniversary of an event, usually denoting the 10th , 25th, 40th, 50th, 60th, and the 75th anniversary. We might haveattended severaljubilee functions like Wedding, Birthday, Ordination etc. Yes, Jubilee celebration is an auspicious occasionforthethanksgivingtothe Almighty,havingjoyandfun. So, the question arises is their necessity to celebrate the Jubilee Celebration? Yes, it is very much necessary and mandatory to have
celebration. I don’t suggest the celebration to be in grand manner, rather remembering and starting the day with thanksgiving to the Almighty and to celebration as per thecapabilityandrequirement.
The Jubilee can be categorized as below.
1) Silverjubilee,fora25thanniversary.
2) Rubyjubilee,fora40thanniversary.
3) Golden jubilee, for a 50th anniversary.
4) Diamond jubilee, for a 60th or 75th anniversary.
5) Sapphire jubilee, for a 65th anniversary.
6) Platinum jubilee, for a 70th anniversary.
7) Blue Diamond, Centenary celebrationfor100years.
Everybody wants to celebrate their and their loved one’s jubilees. It isa gift of the almighty and to remember all the blessings we receivedthroughoutjourneyduring these jubilee years. The person would be filled with joy and happiness on this. When we wish and congratulate them, their joy multiplies and it would be remembrance. Everybody has the righttocelebratetheirjubilees. When the couples celebrate their 1st year anniversary, it is not that theirmarriageis1yearold,ratherit is 1 year strong and becomes stronger as the year passes. Bridegroom should take care and love the bride who has left everything and trusted on her life partner. I asked one of the couples who celebrated their Golden WeddingJubilee,whatisthesecrecy of their successful marriage. The answer I got is prayer, love and faithfulness. There would be troubles, misunderstandings and thorns. To win all these
circumstances and gain the victory by mutual love and understanding is the real jubilee for the couples. They are the role model for their childrenandtothesocietyhowthey livedtheirlife.Itistherealjubilee. Secondly it is a joyous occasion for thepriestwhowouldbecelebrating his Jubilee. Priest is a person who has sacrificed everything like his family, home and all the benevolence and serving to the people.Whatajoyandblessingsfor the priest and his family members during celebrating his jubilee like silverandgolden.
Birthday jubilee celebration is another form of the celebration. Birthisapreciousblessingfromthe God.WemustthanktheLordandto our parents for giving us this gift. We may not have prayed for our parents. But surely, they might have prayed for us. When our parents have their birthdays, we must wish them, and I cannot explain how much happy our parents would be. They don’t expect any royal celebration and gathering. Just a lovelyhugisenoughforthem. Normally in many of the occasions we miss to wish many of our loved once, relatives’ friends. It might be
due to our busy schedule of works anddailyroutines.Thebestpractise is to note down all these important days and have a look on once in a weektomissthewishingortoavoid belated wishes. Because our loved ones expect a wish from us. If we don’t wish them on time, it hurts them a lot. They may not express it orally.
Also,itispermittedtocelebrateour jubilees not only with our family, relatives and friends but also with those people, who have no body in
this world. Many children/ people/aged stays in the orphanages. When we donate something to them, the blessings multiply,andrealmeaningcomesto ourjubileecelebration.
Finally, I would conclude that let us celebrate the jubilees of others everyyearwhomwelove,knowand who have helped us during our difficulties.Letusprayforthemand we too are blessed, and this is the real jubilee celebration. May God Blessusall.
Celebrating Faith, Culture, and Community: ‘Kutmachem Fest 2025’ by Karaval Konkans Australia
MediaRelease
Living miles away across the seven seas, far from our homeland, migrants often share a common longing to relive cherished memories and traditions. This sentiment deeply resonates within the Konkani Catholic community in Australia, especially during the Nativity Feast, one of the most
anticipated and revered events for Konkani-speakingCatholics.
Thanks to the power of technology, KaravaliKonkansAustraliaInc.(KKA) has successfully built a virtual, nationwide community united in devotion and cultural pride. In the lead-up to the Nativity Feast, KKA organizedanine-dayNovenain
honourofOurBlessedMother.Held acrossvariouscitiesinAustralia,the Novena allowed devotees to participate either in person or virtually, with families from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, and Brisbane graciously hosting the daily prayers in their homes. Each day saw the community come together to venerate the statue of Bambina Mary with flowers and heartfelt devotion.
The nine days of spiritual preparationculminatedinthegrand celebration of KutmachemFeston 13 September 2025 in Melbourne,
attendedbyover500devotees.The festivities began with a traditional procession featuring the statue of Bambina Mary, accompanied by childrenandadultsbringingflowers for veneration a sight that evoked deep emotion and unity among attendees.
For the first time, families from the southeastern states of Australia experienced the tradition of "Novem" at the Nativity Feast. Rev. Fr. Jacob Alvares, Spiritual Director ofKKA,ledtheNovena,theblessing of the Novem, and the Eucharistic Mass. The ceremony was elevated byabeautifullyharmonizedchoir
performing traditional Konkani hymns, creating a solemn and spiritualatmosphere.
In true spirit of preserving our heritage, KKA recreated a cherished tradition from back home.
Community elders Edna Pinto and Mary D'Silva were invited to the altar to add seven symbolic grains totheVornaftertheblessingofthe Novem , which was then distributed to each attendee. This act ensured that everyone, especially the younger generation, could connect with the rich significance of Balok Moriyechem Fest our beloved KutmachemFest .
The cultural segment began with a heartfelt tribute to the late Mr. Eric Alexander Ozario, one of Konkani’s
most beloved sons who passed awayinAugust2025.WilsonKalakar spoke on behalf of the KKA committee, reminiscing about Eric’s lasting impact. Committee members offered floral tributes on stage in his memory. Eric Ozario, whocoinedthemissionofKKA,was deeply connected with the community, and his legacy was honoured with genuine emotion andgratitude.
Thestagethencamealivewitha vibrant cultural programme showcasing the talents of young children, youth, and elders alike through music and dance. The celebrationwasgracedbyMr.Sushil Kumar, Consul General of India in MelbourneastheChiefGuest,who
in his address, applauded KKA’s efforts in preserving cultural identitywhileseamlesslyintegrating withAustraliansociety.
In her address, KKA President, Jane D’Souza spoke on KKA, Monti Fest, the activities that KAA undertakes, the community engagement and how KKA wishes to continue its journeyanditsmission.
A major highlight of the evening was the announcement of winners from the global online singing competition Ek Kantaar Moriye Uskyar – 2025 , hosted by KKA in collaboration with the Blue Angels
Choir, Mangaluru. The competition, held from July to September, received over 200 entries worldwide.
Judging Panels:
• First Round Judges: Jason Lobo, Sonal Monteiro, Dealle D’Souza,PrithumMonteiro
• FinalJudges: MelwynPeris,Fr. Antony Babush OCD, Alwyn Noronha, Ajith Peter D’Souza, Joshal D’Souza, Prajoth D’Sa, Sandria Rodrigues, Rynell Sequeira
Renowned Konkani singer, music director,andGrammyaward winner
Prajoth D’Sa represented the judging panel and announced the winners of the “Most Liked” entries onFacebook.
Mrs.Mira D’Silva,community leaderandentrepreneur, announcedthewinnersofthe Below12Yearscategory.
Mr.Sushil Kumar announcedthe winnersoftheAbove12Years category.
Competition Results: Below12Years
• Winner: AyushReganMenezes (Udupi)
• Runner-Up: KeithJordan D’Souza(Mangaluru)
• MostFacebook Likes: Aiden ShaunMenezes(Mangaluru) Above12Years
• Winner: MelonaSaldanha (Mangaluru)
• Runner-Up: NitishPinto (Mysuru)
• MostFacebook Likes: Vinitha Tellis(Moodbidri)
Anothermajormilestonewasthe launch of KKA’s new website: www.karavalkonkans.org.au. The honour of launching the revamped site went to Mr. Mevan D’Souza, a tech enthusiast and dedicated community member who played a crucial role in guiding the design and development of the site. The platform now boasts enhanced features for improved communicationandengagement. To conclude the evening, guests were treated to a delicious traditional family meal prepared by Red Chillies Catering, offering a truetasteofhomewelcomedtothe meal in true Mangalorean Catholic tradition with Panpod ani Udaak by Mr Micky D’Silva. Then came the much-awaited Bingo conducted by Manoj who kept the audience at raptattentioninhisinimitablestyle.
Caroline D’Souza, Secretary of KKA proposed the vote of thanks. The night ended on a high note with an energetic live Baila session, with
nearly 200 attendees taking to the dance floor for over 30 minutes, celebrating with boundless enthusiasm.
Inaheartfeltnodtotraditionsback home,sugarcanewasdistributedto eachfamily symbolisingunity, love,togetherness,andthespiritof communityandsharing.
AHeartfeltThankYoufrom KaravalKonkansAustralia
The KKA Committee extends its deepest gratitude to everyone who opened their homes and hearts for the nine-day Novena and participated in Kutmachem Fest 2025 . Special thanks to all our volunteers, sponsors, and supporters whose contributions made this celebration a resounding success. We remain committed to celebratingourfaith,preservingour traditions,andfosteringcommunity spirit.
Tostayconnectedandupdatedon upcomingevents,followuson socialmediaandvisitourwebsite atwww.karavalkonkans.org.au.
"Be Smart, Be Safe Online": Mangalore
Diocese Equips Over 100 with Cyber Safety Skills in Moodbidri
MOODBIDRI, SEPTEMBER 21, 2025: In a timely and crucial initiative,theCommissionforSocial Communication of the Diocese of Mangalore,incollaborationwiththe St. Mathew's Deanery (Moodbidri Varado), successfully organized a comprehensivetrainingprogramon "Cyber Safety" today. The event, held at the Corpus Christi Church
Hall, drew an enthusiastic crowd of around 100 participants from 14 parishesacrossthedeanery.
The half-day workshop, which ran from 2:45 PM to 5:30 PM, was designed to address the growing challenges of the digital age. The audience was a diverse mix of youngstudents,membersof
various parish media teams, and interested netizens, all eager to enhancetheirdigitalliteracy.
The training was led by a distinguished team of resource persons from the Diocesan Commission for Social Communication. The expert panel included:
● Rev. Fr. Anil Ivan Fernandes, Director of the Canara Communication Centre, DioceseofMangalore
● Sr. Grace Bennis, Diocesan Joint Secretary of the
Commission
● Mr. Leo Victor Zalki,Diocesan Resource Team & Executive Member(Modankaup)
● Mr. Wilson Pereira, Diocesan Resource Team & Executive Member(Beluvai)
● Mr. Pramod Rodrigues, Diocesan Resource Team & ExecutiveMember(Hospet)
The sessions delved into critical topics pertinent to today's online environment. Trainers addressed prevalent issues such as misinformationandcyberbullying,
with a special focus on identifying sophisticated online scams, including new threats emerging fromtheriseofArtificialIntelligence (AI)inthecurrentera.
Speaking at the event, Rev. Fr. Anil Ivan Fernandes, the lead trainer, emphasized the necessity of such programs."Inanerawhereourlives areincreasinglyintertwinedwiththe digitalworld,itisnotenoughtobe just users; we must be responsible digitalcitizens,"hestated."Ouraim with these workshops is to empower individuals with the
knowledge to protect themselves and to harness the power of social mediaforpositivegrowth."
The program was meticulously organized under the guidance of VeryRev.Fr.OnilD'Souza,Deanof the Moodbidri Deanery and Parish PriestofMoodbidri.
Rev. Fr. Rohan Lobo, Parish Priest of Taccode and the Deanery Coordinator for the Commission, who helmed the local organization, urged participants to become ambassadorsofdigitalsafety."This
training knowledge must be amplified in our parishes and communities," he said. "We must spreadthisknowledgetomakeour community safe online and achieve digitalpeace."
Participants expressed their gratitude for the practical and insightfulsession."Thetrainingwas an eye-opener," said one participant. "What I appreciated most was the practical knowledge achieved on the use of mobile and Googlesettings.Learninghands-on how to strengthen our WhatsApp
security and social media privacy was incredibly valuable and somethingIcanuseimmediately."
The successful execution of the eventhighlightsthecommitmentof the Diocese of Mangalore to fostering a digitally aware and securecommunity.TheCommission for Social Communication plans to conduct similar workshops across other deaneries in its ongoing mission to promote media literacy and responsible online engagement.
with St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), organized a Cleanliness and Awareness Drive at Someshwara Beach on 20th September2025.
The program was led by ANO Capt. ShakinRajandconductedunderthe
guidanceofLtColRohitPrakashRai, Commanding Officer of 18 KAR Battalion. The event witnessed the enthusiasticparticipationof90NCC Army Wing cadets from the university.
The drive aimed to raise public awareness about the importance of cleanliness, environmental conservation, and tree plantation, withspecialemphasisontheroleof riversandcoastalecosystems.
Cadets engaged with residents and tourists, educating them on how planting trees improves air quality, reduces pollution, and promotes environmental sustainability.
Saplings were distributed to residents and tourists as a symbolic gesture, encouraging them to plant and nurture trees to contribute to a greenerplanet.
A beach cleaning activity was conducted, during which cadets collected and responsibly disposed of plastic waste, bottles, and other debris, helping restore the natural beautyandcleanlinessofthebeach. This initiative highlighted the vital need to preserve rivers, beaches, and other natural water bodies, while reinforcing the message that
individual efforts can have a meaningfulenvironmentalimpact. Through their dedication and teamwork, the NCC cadets demonstrated a strong commitment to community service, environmental protection, and the values of Swachh Bharat, serving as rolemodelsforthepublic.
MyDearFather–ANewChapter in Konkani Cinema
Regional cinemas in India are getting attention worldwide, and Konkani cinema is no exception. Thoughsmall,ithasalwaysbeenfull of creativity and vision. Filmmakers of the past told stories from local life, often working with very limited budgets. Their hard work has laid thefoundationfortoday’s revival of Konkani films and continues to inspirenewstorytellers.
As new talents continue to emerge and untold stories await the spotlight, Konkani cinema looks aheadwithconfidence,groundedin its heritage and reaching new possibilities.
The recent Konkani film Fondacho Misther , produced by Rayan Magneto Films, has garnered
widespread popularity, building a devotedfanbasenotonlyinCoastal Karnataka but also among the global diasporas. The film achieved significant box office success and received numerous prestigious awards.
Following in their footsteps, Comedy Company Creations presentsMyDearFather , a Konkani film released on September 24th . Written and directed by Nellu Permannur, the movie beautifully captures the lives and struggles of peopleinruralvillages.
Thepremiereshowsofthefilm,held in Udupi and Mangalore, were met with an overwhelmingly positive response. Audiences warmly welcomedthemovie,applaudingits story, performances, and connectiontolocallife.
The climax of the film was truly heartwarming,deliveringabeautiful and unexpected message that stayed with the audience. Viewers also praised the acting, noting that theperformanceswereoutstanding andbroughtthestorytolife.
The visual storytelling by Danel Jaison deserves high appreciation. Vanil Veigas’s soundtrack adds depth and emotion, playing a
crucialroleinthestorytelling. Even before its official release, the movie had already created a lot of excitement online, with discussions and fan theories spreading across social media, especially among Konkani-speaking Mangalorean Catholic audiences.
Available in theaters near you, the movieentertains whilealsooffering food for thought. With a storyline that conveys a gentle lesson, the film concludes in an unexpected andmemorableway,leaving viewersreflectinglongafteritends. Your presence in theaters not only celebrates films but also strengthens the industry. Please make it a point to experience these
films in theaters and back the filmmakers.
For a modest community, collective support is crucial to nurturing an industry that can grow and thrive like Malayalam, Tamil, Kannada, or Bengalicinema.
-PrinsonDLima
Yearsofhardwork,sleeplessnights and finally that proud moment!! I completedmyPh.D.inMathematics from Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi. Thank you, Dr Chaitra V, my supervisor and Prof. Venketesha, the external member, Kuvempu University, Shimoga.
I am grateful to my parents, family, friends,teachersandeveryonewho helpedmetoachievethisstep. Hearty Congratulations to Dr. Wilma,Bantwal!
CASK112thAnnualGeneralBodyMeeting
CASK September22,2025
The 112th Annual General Body MeetingoftheCatholicAssociation of South Kanara (CASK) was convened with solemnity and
purpose, marking another milestone in the Association’s enduringlegacyoffaith,fellowship, and service. The meeting was held on Sunday, 21st September 2025 10:45am,atBendoreChurchJubilee
Hall, Mangalore. The member registration started at 10am, followedbybreakfast.
OpeningProceedings
Themeetingwascalledtoorderby the President, followed by a prayer songledbyMs.Ashaandteam.The prayer was followed by a warm welcome from the President, who reflected on CASK’s journey and reaffirmed its mission. Key highlights from the President’s addressincluded:
• Acknowledgement of CASK’s 111year legacy and its evolving role in communityempowerment.
• Launch of CASK IgniteU, a youth mentorship initiative aimed at cultivatingfutureCatholicleaders.
• Strategic steps taken to sustain the Mangalore Magazine, including a shift to digital formats and reduction in print circulation, resulting in cost savings and increased reach (11,298+ website visitors).
• Appreciation for the financial stewardship of the Vice President, Treasurer,andGCmembers,whose efforts have stabilized CASK’s finances.
AgendaHighlights
The following agenda itemswere
discussedandadopted:
• Remembrance of departed members–Aminuteofsilentprayer was observed in memory of the departedmembersofCASK.
• Approval of minutes from the 2022 AGM – The Secretary read out the minutes of the 111th AGM, which were approved by the members. Proposed by: Capt. John Prasad Menezes, Seconded by: Mr. H. R. Saldanha
• Annual Report 2024–25 – The AnnualReportfortheyear2024–25 had already been circulated to the members.Withnoqueriesraised,it was approved by the body. Proposed by: Mr. F. M. Lobo, Secondedby:Mr.AllenC.Pereira
• Adoption of audited financial reports for 2024–25. The Annual Report for the year 2024–25 had already been circulated to the members.Withnoqueriesraised,it was approved by the body.
Proposed by: Mr. F. M. Lobo, Seconded by: Mr. Allen C. Pereira. TheTreasurer,inhisremarks,noted that through the Benefactor Membership Promotion, an Endowment Fund of ₹2,80,000 was collected, of which ₹2,50,000 has been placed in Fixed Deposits. He
further urged members, especially businessowners,toadvertiseinthe Mangalore Magazine,thesoft copy of which is available on the CASK website and has already crossed 11,000+views.
• Appointment of auditors. The members approved the continuation of the existing auditors,M/sRMCR&Co.Proposed by: Mr. Winston D’Souza, Seconded by:Mr.EdmondFrank.
Governance Conflict: CASK CentenaryTrust
A detailed status report was presented regarding governance irregularities within the CASK Centenary Trust (CCT). The President presented the current status and actions taken with respect to CASK and CCT and sought the advice of the General Body.Keyconcernsincluded:
• UnilateralamendmentstotheTrust
Deedin March2024,bypassingthe GeneralBodyandreplacingelected trustees with unelected individuals anddonors.
• Unauthorized access to CASK’s accounting software and misrepresentation of donation records.
• Legal opinion confirming the
invalidity of the amendments and thecurrentBoard’sconstitution.
CASK’sGoverningCouncilresolved:
• Not to recognize the current ManagingTrusteeofCCT.
• To refrain from sharing sensitive KYC data until the original Trust Deedisrestored.
• To seek member deliberation or entrustfurtherreviewtoMr.AllenC Pereira.
Capt. John Prasad Menezes expressed his views on the centenary celebrations, the formation of trust, and the transfer of funds in previous years from CASK to CCT. He emphasized that CCT belongs to the members of CASKandnottoanyindividuals.Mr. Norbert M. Shenoy expressed his disagreement with the details furnishedbythePresident.Mr.Allen C. Pereira provided his expert opinion after analyzing the amendments. He stressed the importance of regularizing the lapses to avoid future complications. Since the matter required detailed discussion, the House agreed to convene a special meeting exclusively to address these issues and arrive at an amicable
settlement.
AnyOtherMatter
Mr.Regoappreciatedtheefforts of the President and his team for conducting the AGM meticulously andacknowledgedDr.PaulAquinas and Dr. Anil Gomes for their contributions in promoting the MangaloreMagazine.
A clarification was given regarding the Mr. Ronald Colaco Memorial Endowment Fund, which supports theMangaloreMagazine.
Mr. William D’Souza urged the General Council and members of CCTtoresolveissueswithoutcalling foranExtraordinaryGeneral
Meeting(EGM).
It was suggested that the AGBM report could be published in the Mangalore Magazine instead of beingreadoutintheAGM.
Conclusion
The meeting concluded at 12:17 p.m., followed by the felicitation of Golden Bharatanatyam Girl, Ms. Ramona, who also gave a performance. The event continued withentertainmentandareunionof CASK members. The AGM concluded with a reaffirmation of CASK’s commitment to transparency, legacy protection, andmember-drivengovernance.
PopeLeoXIVisgoingtoreplace
theNewYork cardinal
BREAKING:MAGAworldexplodesin rageoverareportthatPopeLeoXIV is going to replace the New York cardinalwhocomparedCharlieKirk to "Saint Paul" with a proimmigrant, anti-gun bishop. And it gets even better...
According to "Letters from Leo," a
Substackrunby formerDemocratic nominee for Congress Christopher Hale, a large swath of Catholics are furiousthatCardinalTimothyDolan went on Fox News last week and called Charlie Kirka "a modern-day St.Paul."HealsoreferredtoKirkas a "a missionary, an evangelist, a hero."
Paul is one of the most important figuresinthehistoryoftheChristian faith, responsible for large, crucial segments of the New Testament. CharlieKirkwasaracistdemagogue who raked in tens of millions of dollars pushing hateful, divisive rhetoric. The two men could not
have been more dissimilar.
Hale writes that many Catholicsare "appalled that Dolan would elevate Kirktosaintlystatus"becauseofhis "divisive and hateful track record." Kirk was Evangelical, not Catholic, and Hale states that his "incendiary
rhetoric" was clearly "at odds with Catholic social teaching."
In his piece, Hale also points out that Kirk called Leo's predecessor Francis a "Marxist who calls himself the head of your church." No cardinal should be heaping praise on a man who attacked the leader of his church, but clearly Dolan is more interested in the culture war than in upholding his duties to the Church.
KirkalsowentafterLeo,statingthat he "was retweeting George Floyd propaganda" before he became Pope. Clearly, Kirk had no respect for the Catholic Church, which has increasingly come into conflict with MAGA over Donald Trump's cruel anti-migrant policies. HalealsoslammedKirkforhisracist remarks including his shockingly bigotedassertionthatBlackwomen "do not have the brain processing power…tobetakenreallyseriously" and have to “steal a white person’s slot"throughaffirmativeaction.Kirk alsosmearedMLKJr.as"awful"and "not a good person."
Hale went on to contrast Dolan's skin-crawling,fawningdiscussionof Kirk with Pope Leo's far more evenhanded,yetstillcompassionate approach. While Leo has avoided discussingthemurderpersonallyin public, the Holy See Press Office statedthatheis"is“holdingCharlie Kirk and his family in prayer,” and that he “expressed concern about political violence." Crucially,thePopePressOfficealso urged people to "refrain from rhetoric and instrumentalization thatleadtopolarizationratherthan dialogue." That kind of rhetoric is exactly what Cardinal Dolan is engagedin.ByelevatingKirktothe level of sainthood, Dolan is tacitly endorsing all of the vile things that Kirk said over the course of his life.
"Catholics are left in dismay, wondering how any church leader could see a man who sowed so much division as a latter-day Paul," Hale writes about Dolan.
Thankfully, Dolan submitted his "obligatory retirement letter" to Pope Francis earlier this year when heturned75.PopeLeowillnowget
to pick his successor.
According to Hale, the "top candidate" is Bishop Daniel Flores who is stationed in Texas and has carved out a reputation for himself byconfrontinggunviolenceandthe border "crisis."
"Don’t tell me that guns aren’t the problem, people are. I’m sick of hearing it," Bishop Flores tweeted after the horrific Uvalde mass shooting. "The darkness first takes our children who then kill our children, using the guns that are easier to obtain than aspirin. We sacralize death’s instruments and then are surprised that death uses them."
Floreshasalsopushedbackagainst Trump's immigration policies
“I feel that as a (bishops’) conference,wemustexpress
ourselves more strongly when it comestothedignityofimmigrants, to say that they are not criminals, thattheyarevulnerablefamiliesand we need to invite all the governments involved, not just the U.S., to defend the migrant as a humanbeing,tonotcasttheperson aside as someone who doesn’t matterandisaproblem,”hesaidto the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).
Flores would be a massive improvement over Dolan, who seemstohavemissedhiscalling as a far-right podcaster. His record is litteredwith disturbing remarks. He rushedtodefendAmericanpolicein the wake of the George Floyd protestsandstatedthatwhile"black lives matter" "all lives matter" and "police lives matter" too. He also arguedagainstremovingstatuesof Confederatesandslaveowners.The soonerhe'sreplaced,thebetter.
St Aloysius University holds An International seminar on Collaborative Ecosystem
An international seminar on the theme "Collaborative Ecosystem: Academia and Industry in Partnership" was organized by the Department of Business Administration at St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru,onSeptember20,2025. The event aimed to highlight the importance of strengthening partnershipsbetweenacademiaand
industry to foster innovation and prepare students for the corporate world.
MrMangalnathwasthechiefguest. Rev. DrPraveen Martis,SJ, VCof St Aloysius University, Dr Alwyn DSa, Registrar of the College, Ms Claret Vinaya Pereira, Director of BBA, Mr Chethan Shettigar, Mr Sonal Lobo, HoD of BBA, Dr Vinola Sandra Sequeira,Convenor,MrKishoreBN, Co-convenorwereonthedais.
The talk featured three keynote speakers. The first, Mr. Mangalnath
MK, a permaculturist, spoke on "Readiness to Embark the New Future," encouraging students to embraceadaptabilityandresilience.
Following him, Mr. Riyas Meeran, Audit Manager at KPMG Australia, delivered a session on "Lessons from the Audit Room," where he sharedreal-lifeexperiencestoshow
howclassroomlearningisappliedin the corporate sphere. The final speaker, Ms. Rachana Karkera, Executive II Talent Acquisition at 7EDGE, presented on "From Campus to Corporate," offering practical advice on skills and mindset for transitioning into professional life. A total of 350 students took part on this internationalseminar.
The sessions were highly engaging and interactive, providing a comprehensive understanding of how collaboration between academia and industry can nurture future professionals. Convened by Dr.VinolaandMr.Kishore,theevent successfully achieved its goal of inspiring students to recognize the importanceofthesepartnershipsin
History repeats:
building a dynamic ecosystem that fosterspracticallearningandcareer readiness.
Ms Ann Varghese welcomed the gathering. Ms Thripthi compered theprogram.MrKishoreBNbriefed abouttheSeminar.DrVinolaSandra Sequeira proposed the vote of thanks.
It was 25 September 2005, the first e-book in Konkani Sagorachea Vattecheo Jhori (compilation of Konkani poetry in Kannada script) by Ashawadi Prakashan was released. Today, 26 September 2025, first ebook of transliteration by the students of Goa Dorea Gazota(R.V.Pandit)isreleasedat
Xaviers College Mapusa. This book was the assignment to the internship students of Xaviers College, organised by Konkani BashaMandal(Goa) -AshavadiNews
Two-day National Level IT and Management Fest, Agnesia 2K25
The Post Graduate Department of Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Computer
Applications (MCA) of St. Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru successfully hosted the two-day National Level IT and Management Fest, Agnesia2K25 , on September 18thand19th,2025tothestudents at Colleges in and around
Renowned Kannada actor Vijay Raghavendra, the Chief Guest of Agnesia 2K25, a National Level IT and Management Fest, added star
Mangalore
power to the Inauguration Ceremony,heldattheMotherMary Aloysia Centenary Auditorium, inspiring students and delegates alikewithhispresence.
Theinauguralceremonywashosted by MBA students Gibson and Athmika,whoservedasthedynamic Master of Ceremonies. The event was graced by the presence of Principal Sr. Dr. M. Venissa A.C., PG Coordinator Sr. Dr. M. Vinora A.C., MBA HOD Mrs. Sheryl Preethika,
MCAHODMrs.PanchajanyeswariH, MBAFacultyCoordinatorDrMallika and other esteemed faculty members.
The program began with a soulful choir prayer song followed by a vibrantculturaldanceperformance, and the traditional lighting of the lamp marked the auspicious beginningofthefest.
The Chief Guest, Actor Vijay Raghavendra,deliveredaninspiring address, sharing motivating
thoughts and warm wishes for the success of the fest, while the Principal and PG Coordinator also encouragedthegatheringwiththeir words.
The IT event – Aavirbhavunder Agnesia 2K25 featured a diverse range of competitions designed to test knowledge, skills, and teamwork. Events such as Mind of Dragons(ITQuiz),TheHandofKing (Coding), The Realm of Renders (Web Designing), and Battle of Knights (Gaming) highlighted participants’ technical expertise, creativity, and strategic thinking. Artistic expression came alive through Three Eyed Raven (Videography) and Light of the Seven (Photography), while managerial prowess was evaluated in The Iron Throne (IT Manager). Adding thrill and adventure, Conquest of Westeros (Treasure Hunt) challenged logical reasoning and teamwork. Cultural events brought energy and excitement to thefest,withValarMorghlis(Tugof War) tested strength and coordination, and The Red Walk (Corporate Walk) celebrated creativityandpresentationskills.
The Management event – Aspiria under Agnesia 2K25 brought forward a vibrant mix of management and cultural rounds. The management events included Crown Verse (Best Manager), Arcane (Human Resource Event), Vogue (Marketing Event), Sherlock (Business Quiz/Debate/Simulation), Heistify (Finance Event), Pinnacles (Best Management Team), and Bridgerton (Public Relations Event), each designed to assess critical thinking, leadership, and professional expertise. Cultural events added liveliness to the fest, with Mr & Ms Aspiria showcasing personality and talent, Voice of Aspiria bringing out solo singing talent,andLagaan,thegullycricket tournament, adding an energetic sportingspirit. Together,theAavirbhavandAspiria events of Agnesia 2K25 created a holistic platform for students to showcase innovation, technical knowledge, managerial excellence, culturalcreativity,andteamspirit.
Mr. Praveen Kumar Kalbhavi, Managing Director & CEO of Novigo Solutions, graced the
Valedictory Ceremony of the Two days National Level IT and Management FestAgnesia2K25as the Chief Guest, held on 19th September 2025 at 4:00 pm in the Mother Mary Aloysia Centenary Auditorium.
The Chief Guest emphasized the importance of commitment, productivity,perseverance,andselfinvestmenttoreachfullpotentialin today’scompetitiveITmarket.
This was followed by the muchawaited Prize Distribution Ceremony,beginningwiththeMBA
Departmentprizewinners,including the announcement of the Overall Champions and Runners-up, and continuing with the MCA Department’s awards and recognition of participants, culminatinginthedeclarationofthe OverallChampionsandRunners-up.
The program culminated in celebratory photography sessions with winners and participants, followed by the rendition of the College Anthem, marking a fitting conclusion to Agnesia 2K25. The valedictoryceremonywashostedby thestudentsofMCAdepartment.
St Aloysius University distributes
Endowed/Special Scholarships
St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) belongs to a network of educational institutions administeredbythemembersofthe Society of Jesus, a religious order whichrunsschools,collegesand
universities in more than 105 countriesintheworld. Thefocusof Jesuit education has always been and will ever continue to be academic excellence and development of the integral personalityofthestudents. It offers a wide range of scholarships, including Endowed/Special Scholarshipsinstituted by donors and retired staff members for academically and financially deserving students.The College also offers financial assistance for studentsfromeconomicallyweaker
sections.Merit-based scholarships are provided to the students excelling in academics, sports and arts.
Recently, the University distributed the Endowed/Special Scholarships i.e.,
• Vidwath Spoorthi Scholarship was providedto333studentsworthRs. 19,90,000/-. Kreeda Spoorthi Scholarship was provided to 58 students worth Rs. 7,15,500/-. Dr Errol Pinto, Paediatrician, was the Chief Guest and distributed these scholarships.
• VidyaSpoorthiScholarshipwas
provided to 482 needy/deserving students. Dr Rohan Monteiro, Proprietor of Rohan Corporation, Mangalore, was the Chief Guest anddistributedthescholarships.
• SAFAL Scholarship instituted by various donors was distributed to 354deservingstudents. MrVincent Cutinha, Proprietor of Ideal Chicken, Mangalore was the Chief Guest and distributed the scholarships.
• Overall, a total sum of Rs. 1,04,11,900/-,wasdistributedtothe students. Out of which Rs. 49,73,400/- was received from the
donors and Rs.54,38,500/-wasthe management’scontribution.
Rev.DrPraveenMartis,SJ,VCofSt Aloysius University presided over the programme. Rev. Fr Melwin. J Pinto, Rector of St Aloysius Institutions, Rev. Fr Vishwas Misquith, SJ, Finance Officer of the University, Dr Alwyn D’Sa, the Registrar of the College, Dr Ronald Nazareth, Registrar of the University, Dr Charles V. Furtado, Director of Admin Block and Ms Shanthi Lobo, Chair or Public Relationswereonthedais.
St Aloysius University holds Tulu National Seminar on "Tulu
Baravu Baaseda Paripu"
The Department of Tulu, School of Languages and Cultural Studies, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) in association with Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy organised a onedayTuluNationalSeminaron"Tulu Baravu Baaseda Paripu" on 23rd September2025inRobertSequeira Hall.
Dr Indira Hegde, eminent Tulu Writer and Scholar, was the Chief Guest. Sri Tharanath Gatti Kapikad, President of Karnataka TuluSahitya Academy was the guest of honour.Rev. Dr Praveen Martis, SJ,
VC of St Aloysius University presided over the programme, Dr AlwynDSaRegistraroftheCollege, Dr Chandra Shekhar Shetty T, Director of Research and Development Cell and Ms PrashanthiShetty,HoDofTuluwere onthedais.
RevDrPraveenMartis,inhisspeech spoke about the important of regional languages and urged the participants to promote Tulu language and culture to uphold its traditions. He also advised the studentstobringmoreliterature
workinTululanguage.
Dr Indira Hegde in her speech congratulated the Tulu department for organising such a wonderful programme. She narrated her journey as a writer and scholar in Kannada and Tulu languages. She spoke about Tuluva Shasana which was established in ancient times. The development of Tulu language is most importantto preserve such itsculturalandtraditionalheritage. MsPrashanthiShettywelcomedthe gathering and briefed about the Seminar.Dr Dinesh Nayak comperedtheprogramme.
During the programme, there were three sessions by Dr Radhakrishna Bellur, Professor, Kannur University, Kerala, Dr M.S. Durgapraveena, Assistant Professor, Department of Kannada Language and Translation Study, Dravida University, Kuppam, AndhrapradeshandSmtPrashanthi Shetty Iruvailu, Assistant Professor, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru. Dr N. Damodara Shetty, former professor of Kananda, St Aloysius College (Autonomous), Mangaluru was the moderator.
TheCloisteredCarmelSisters
TheCloistered CarmelSistersofthe
Sacred Heart Monastery, Kankanady, will be celebrating The Centenary of the Sainthood of St. Thérèse of Lisieux along with the Solemnity of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. As part of the celebrations,an
ExhibitionontheLifeofSt.Thérèse of Lisieux will be held from the evening of September 28th till October1st,2025(wholeday)atthe Sacred Heart Monastery, Kankanady, Mangalore.
The inaugural programme will be held on Sunday, September 28th, 2025, at 3:45 p.m. The event will be inauguratedbyMs.RemonaPereira, Golden Book Record Holder. The blessing will be offered by Rev. Fr. MelvinD’CunhaOCD,SuperiorofSt. Joseph’s Monastery, Carmel Hill.
Theprogrammewillalsowitnessthe book launching of “Crucible of Sufferings – A Path to Perfect Love, According to St. Thérèse of Lisieux” authored by Rev. Fr. Rudolf V. D’Souza, with the launch being donebySr.RoseCelineBS,Superior General of Bethany Congregation.
The chief guests for the occasion will be Mr. Santhosh D’Souza, President, Catholic Sabha, Mangalore Pradesh (R), Bajpe, and Mr. Elias Fernandes, Media Coordinator.
The Cloistered Carmel Sisters warmlyinviteallthefaithfulandthe
public to be part of this grace-filled celebration and exhibition, to know more about the inspiring life and spiritual legacy of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, also known as “The Little Flower.”
September 28th, 29th and 30th TRIDIUM will be observed till October 1 2025
Eucharistic Adoration:Evening4:15 to 5:15 pm Led by: Fr. Pranam Fernandes OCD followed by Eucharistic Celebration October 1" 2025, Wednesday Eucharistic Adoration: Evening 4:15 to 5:15 pm SolemnEucharisticCelebration:5.30 pm
Main
Celebrant: Very Rev. Dr. Pius James D'Souza OCD Definitor General Venue: Cloistered Carmel, Sacred Heart Monastery, Opp. Father Muller’s Hospital, Kankanady, Mangalore–575002.
Youth Jubilee celebrations at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shivamogga
Shivamogga, September 22, 2025: The Sacred Heart Cathedral Youth JubileebeganwithHolyEucharistat
9.00 am, celebrated by Rev. Fr Franklin D'Souza, and the concelebrantswereVeryRev.Fr
Stany D'Souza, Rector of Sacred Heart Cathedral; Rev. Fr Jostro MSFS, Assistant Parish Priest of Sacred Heart Cathedral; and Rev. Dn. Johnson. In his homily, Fr Franklin D'Souza preached about howtoconnectwiththeLordJesus
Christ and his teachings, which bringhealingtotheyoungsters.He speciallyprayedovertheyouth.The liturgy was meaningfully animated by the members of Youth of the Parish.
Following the Eucharistic celebration at 11 am, a wellorganized program was held. The youth took part enthusiastically in the various sessions and activities. The program included group dynamicsconductedbyDnJohnson and an enthusiastic, meaningful session conducted by Fr. Franklin D'Souza on "Self-esteem". The participation and involvement of the youth highlighted their spirit of unity,faith,andcommitmenttothe missionoftheChurch.
Fr. Stany D'Souza, Rector of the Cathedral, inspired the youth with histake-homemessagethroughhis spiritual capsules, saying, "Awake, Arise, and Act." The Youth Jubilee concluded on a joyful note with wordsencouragingthemtoactively participateinChurchactivities.
Report by; Ms Sannidhi, Shivamogga
Photosby:MrRahul,Shivamogga
STALOYSIUS (DEEMED TO BE UNIVERSITY)
MANGALURU
PRESS RELEASE
NationalSeminarTitled “Climate Literacy andEnvironmental Governance:Empoweringthe NextGeneration”
The Postgraduate Department of Studies and Research in Social Work, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) will be organizing One day National Seminar titled “Climate Literacy and Environmental Governance: Empowering the Next Generation” on 29th September 2025 at L F Rasquinha Hall, LCRI Block Hall, St Aloysius (Deemed to beUniversity),Mangalore.
The Chief Guest for the Inaugural Programme, Mr Vijay Moras, TrusteeCFAL&Co-leadTheAMARA (Prakrutiye Pragati) Initiative, Mangaluru, will Inaugurate the seminar. The Valedictory Programme will be graced by the
Chief Guest, Rev. Dr Melwyn S Pinto, SJ, Secretary, Karnataka Jesuit Higher Education Commission.
Following are the sessions after InauguralProgramme:
1. KeynoteSession: MrVijayMoras, TrusteeCFAL&Co-leadTheAMARA (Prakrutiye Pragati) Initiative, Mangaluru
2. Technical Session I: Role of Urban BiodiversityinClimateResilience by
Dr Smitha Hegde, Biologist, Principal & Director of Research, CFAL.
3. PanelDiscussion:
• Moderator:DrAStephen,Assistant Professor, St Joseph University, Bengaluru.
• Panellist1:DrHaridasVR,Expertin Climate Justice & Sustainable Agriculture,Ernakulam
• Panellist 2: Mr Karthik Ponnappa, Co-founder & Principal at Smarter Dharma,Bengaluru
• Panellist 3: Ms Rishika Pardikar, Climate & Environment Journalist, Bengaluru
Participants of the Seminar include studentsofSocialWorkandother disciplines, Educators and Research scholars local, within state and other states of India. The aim is to explore effective climate literacy, environmental governance, promoting informed decision making, advocacy and sustainable practises. Contemporary challenges and practical solutions will be deliberated. Interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange is facilitated, offering participants opportunities to interact with experts, present research papers and engage in meaningfuldialogues. Wekindlyrequestyoutobepresent and give us wide coverage towards thisNationallevelSeminar.
(Rev.DrPraveenMartis,SJ)
Catholic Union condemns criminalising of Christian worship.
Calls for transparent Polls, honest OBC&DalitsinCensus
PressStatement
Mangalore / Panaji, 24 September 2025
The All-India Catholic Union (AICU) hasexpresseditsdeepconcernover theincreasingnumberofattackson Christians in several states in the country where worship services are being criminalized under the controversialanti-conversionlaws.
At its general body meeting in Mangalore, the 106-year-old AICU noted that the anti-conversion laws in some 12 states have been challenged in the Supreme court as anti-constitutionalandasluronthe country’s ethos of freedom of faith andexpression.
In important resolutions passed by the general body, the AICU took stock of developments in the country which eventually impacted religious minorities, Dalits, OBCs andAdivasis.
These groups would be able to get equitable participation in national resources, opportunities and governance only if there were transparentelectionsinthecountry, and an honest enumeration of OBC and Dalits communities across
religious and geographics divides whileconductingthecastecensus.
The Catholic Union said the increasing trust deficit between the Election Commission of India and the public was a worrying sign. It called upon the President of India, the higher judiciary and the union government to restore faith in institutions such as the Election Commission.
This 106-year-old AICU, headed by Er. Elias Vaz, as the National President,isthelargestmovement of Catholic laity in Asia. The annual general meeting, inaugurated by Mr. Ivan D Souza, MLC, was also marked by “Bandhutva”, an interreligious meet inaugurated by Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker Mr. U. T. Khadar. The keynote address was delivered by Most Rev Peter Paul Saldanha, the bishop of Mangalore. Other speakers were Prof Rajaram Tholpady formerly Mangalore University, and the noted Kannada writerFatimaRalia.
A new AICU website was commissioned at the AGM where a book authored by John Shilshi IPS Rtd, on Manipur’s experience with AFSPAwasalsoreleased.
Initsreviewofthenationalsituation on religious minorities, AICU noted that just between January and August 2025, there were 508 incidents of attacks on Christians, with Uttar Pradesh state registering the highest number with 123, closely followed by Chhattisgarh with117incidents.
Acts of violence and other forms of persecution, fomented by Hindutva extremist groups, included families being denied burying their dead in their native villages, ostracization, coercion.
AICU regretted that of the 508 incidents reported across the country, police registered First InformationReportsinjust36cases,
a clear sign of system apathy and complicity.
The AICU, which had first taken up cudgels against the Presidential order of 1950 soon after it was passed, demanded that protection of the law and state benefit should begivenwithoutreligiousbias.
AICU also cautioned against any attempt to disenfranchise Christian Adivasis and tribals by robbing themoftheScheduledtribestatus.
The Union wondered why an attemptisbeingmadetorevivethe dormant legislation, the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act 1978, after 48 years. The move was aimed towards curtailing the activities of the Christian community, whose contributions towardsmakingArunachalPradesh Progressandprosperitywere
unparalleled. Rejecting hate campaigns against religious minorities, the AGM kickstarted with “Bandhutva”, an interreligious dialogue on compassion whereinthespiritsofMotherTeresa and Mahatma Gandhi were highlighted by scholars representing different religious groups. A training programme on ‘CrisisManagement’wasalsooneof the highlights of the AGM, which saw the participation of 145 members from different parts of India.
Released to the media for publication/ broadcast by National Spokesperson Dr John Dayal who can be contacted for further information at Mobile +919811021-72, and email: john.dayal@gmail.com
National Workshop on “Folk and Flora: Tradition and Conservation” Held at St Agnes College
The Department of Botany and Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of St Agnes College (Autonomous) Mangaluru, in collaboration with the Karnataka Biodiversity Board, organized a national workshop on “Folk and Flora: Tradition and Conservation” on Wednesday, 17th September 2025. Theworkshopwasinauguratedina unique and symbolic manner by Mrs. Bibijan of Bibi Fathima SHG, from Theertha village, Dharwad District, who ground leaves of
experience."
Theinauguralceremonywasgraced by Mr. Govardhan Singh M J, Deputy Conservator of Forests,
Karnataka Biodiversity Board, Government of Karnataka, as the esteemed Guest of Honour. Sr. Dr. Venissa A C, Principal of St. Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, presidedoverthefunction,whileSr.
Carmel Rita, College Administrator, added her distinguished presence
totheoccasion.
Dr.SoniyaMarsiLobo,Convenorof the National Workshop, delivered the welcome address, providing an insightful background on the workshop's objectives and significance.
Mrs. Bibijan was honored by the workshop organizer for her remarkable win of the UNDP Equator Prize 2025, celebrating the BibiFathimaSHG'scontributionsto biodiversity conservation, millet promotion, and women's empowerment.
MrsBibijaninherinauguraladdress
mentioned that Bibi Fathima Self Help Group was formed by 15 women in 2018, the SHG has introduced millet-based mixed cropping on rain fed farms, empowered women, promoted climate-resilient farming systems, practiced livestock rearing and horticulture,andpopularizedmillets at the village level. This work has simultaneously ensured both nutritional security and income stability. The Bibi Fatima SHG has prioritized the conservation of indigenous crop varieties that fare betterduringclimateextremes.
On this occasion, the B.Sc Botany students'community,'Chiguru,'was officially inaugurated by the Guest ofHonour, Mr.GovardhanSinghM J, marking a significant milestone for the botany students. In his address,hehighlightedthepressing need for biodiversity conservation and safeguarding food quality, underscoringtheirsignificancefora sustainablefuture.
medicinal plants and preserving traditional knowledge. The dignitaries on the dais were then felicitatedwithmementosandfloral saplings as a token of respect and appreciation. Dr. Nivya V M deliveredavoteofthanks,bringing theproceedingstoagraciousclose.
TheValedictorySessionmarkedthe successful conclusion of a dynamic and insightful event that brought together leading experts, researchers, academicians and studentsfromKarnatakaandKerala. The workshop aimed to foster dialogue and encourage collaborative efforts to conserve and sustainably manage biodiversity and traditional medicinesystem.
Sr. Dr. Venissa A C, in her Presidential address, emphasized the importance of conserving
Dr. Ita DSouza, Associate Professor of Chemistry, St. Agnes College, Mangaluru graced the event as Chief Guest and delivered an insightful address, emphasizing the crucial role of green chemistry in driving sustainable development and reducing environmental footprint. She advocated for the adoptionofinnovative,eco-friendly chemical processes that minimize
harm to the planet and its inhabitants.
Dr. Vishala B.K, Chief Librarian, St. AgnesCollege,Mangaluru,inspired studentparticipantsastheGuestof Honour, urging them to apply the
workshop's insights in practical waysandusethemoderntoolsand techniques to excel academically and professionally. The Vice Principal of St. Agnes College gracedthevaledictoryfunction.
St Aloysius University organised Hindi
Diwas - Celebration of Hindi Virasath
The department of Hindi, School of Languages and Culture Studies, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) organisedHindiDiwas-Celebration of Hindi Virasath on 22nd September2025inLCRIHall.
Dr Nagaratna N Rao, Professor of Hindi,UniversityCollege,
Mangalorewasthechiefguest.Rev.
Dr Praveen Martis, SJ, VC of St Aloysius University, presided over the programme. Dr Alwyn DSa, Registrar of the College, Mr Christopher DSouza, Director, RangaAdhyayanaKendra,MsRoicy RekhaBraggs,StaffCoordinator,Dr Sandhya U. Sirsikar, Assistant Coordinator, Aliya Khan and Armaan Sheikh, the student coordinatorswereonthedais
Dr Nagaratna Rao in her address highlighted the importance of learning the Hindi language, emphasizing its cultural value,
national relevance, and role in fosteringunityindiversity.Shesaid that Hindi is India’s national language, and it brings together of all people without any discrimination of caste or creed. Hindi is a kind of feeling of nationalism and through this language we can come together and unite with each other. January 10willbecelebratedasWorldHindi Day and on September 12 is observed as Hindi Diwas in India, sheadded.
Rev. Dr Praveen Martis in his presidentialremarksbriefedthe
importance of observing Hindi Diwas in colleges. He suggested promoting Hindi in our country to bind all the people together in nationbuilding.
Dr Sandhya Sirsikar welcomed the gathering.Sara compered the programme. Aliya Khan proposed thevoteofthanks.
TheValedictoryCeremonywasheld at3:00 p.m. Dr. Alwyn D’Sa wasthe
ChiefGuestandMrRobertJohn,the Campus Officer of the University wastheGuestofHonour.
As part of the Hindi Diwas celebrations, various competitions were organized, including Saath Satori, Lagori, Tare Zameen Par, Tashan, and Cooking Without Fire. The winners were felicitated and awarded during the valedictory programme.
St Agnes College honours ACCA Achievers
The Department of Commerce, St. Agnes College (Autonomous), in collaborationwithInternationalSkill Development Corporation (ISDC), honored the ACCA achievers from theJune2024toJune2025sessions on 12 September 2025. During the felicitation program,three Affiliates—Ms. Lenisha Hezil
Menezes, Ms. Nisha D'Souza, and Ms. Alma Lasrado were recognised. Additionally, 39 students who successfully cleared various ACCA papers were also honored.
The students recognized were: Ms. Esha D'Silva, Ms. Archana K Bhat, Ms. Krupa Esther Salins, Ms. Varsha Suvarna,Ms.VinithaRodrigues,Ms. Manyashree, Ms. Priyan Jessica D'Souza, Mr. Srinithish, Ms. Anjolie Milagres Fernandez, Ms. Ivin Melita Sequeira, Ms. Lenvisha D'Silva, Ms. Madhushree K, Ms. Nishel Mathias, Ms.RachanaPS,Ms.NidhiMS,Ms.
S Navyashree, Ms. Smithashree S, Ms. Sanjana Bajal, Ms. Alima Hanaan, Mr. Arthur D'Souza, Ms. Ashline Princita Dantis, Ms. Dafny Melora D'Souza, Ms. Fathima Nashwa,Ms.MishaAroza,Ms.Risha
JohannaLasrado,Ms.RoslinVeigas, Ms. Salma, Ms. Serena Francine Saldanha, Ms. Aysha Lamha M K, Ms. Misbah Banu, Mr. Nabhan Muzaffar,Ms.PranjaliShet,Ms.Ruth MelanieD'Souza,Ms.SweedalLiona Monis, Ms. Kruthika Janardhan, Ms. Wineva Wiyona Vas, Ms. Preemal Monis, Ms. Gulfin Naz, and Ms. SherylSequeira.
Mr Lalith Rai, Head of BPM Operations at Infosys, Mangalore, was the Chief Guest of the Programme.Inhisspeech,Mr.Lalith Rai commended the achievers for theirhardworkandhighlightedthe promising career landscape awaiting them, noting the evolving roles within the accounting and financesector.
ThePrincipal,Sr.Dr.M.VenissaA.C. acknowledgedthehardworkofthe newly qualified professionals. She also shared words of encouragement, urging the B. Com students enrolled in the ACCA program to persevere in their academicjourney.
Ms. Anusha Noronha, the ACCA Coordinator, acknowledged the
outstanding achievement of Ms. Alisha Ruth Saldanha, an Alumna and ACCA Affiliate from St. Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru. Althoughabsentfromtheprogram, Ms. Saldanha was recognised for securing the prestigious All-India Rank 2 and a remarkable World Rank 11 in the March 2025 ACCA examinationsession.
Ms. Lenisha Hezil Menezes, Ms. Nisha D'Souza, and Ms. Alma Lasrado shared their personal journeys, offering valuable insights
and encouragement to current students by highlighting the challenges they overcame and the bright career horizons that await themuponcompletingtheirpapers andachievingaffiliatestatus.
Thefelicitationprogramservedasa powerful motivator, celebrating the achievements of the affiliates and showcasingthetangiblerewards of dedication, thereby inspiring currentstudentstostriveforsimilar success in their own academic and professionaljourneys.
StAloysius University celebrates resounding success withAloysian Fest 2025
St Aloysius (Deemed-to-be University), Mangaluru, hosted the much-awaitedAloysianFest2025,A National Level Undergraduate fest
organized by the Post Graduate DepartmentsoftheUniversity. This landmark event, held in the institution’s illustrious 145th year, witnessedtheparticipationof78
colleges from Goa, Kerala, Bengaluru, Hassan, Udupi, and DakshinaKannada.Thefestbrought together a vibrant mix of talent across seven major events, such as: Ark of Arts (PG Social Sciences), Saksham(PGSocialWork),Udhgam
(PG Commerce), Synapse (PG Biological Sciences), Quanta (PG Physical Sciences), Aloysiad(Sports Meet) and Kalaatrividha (Cultural Extravaganza).
The inauguration ceremony, held at L.F.RasquinhaHall,beganwitha
soulful prayer and welcome dance, followed by a visual tribute to the University’s rich legacy. Staff coordinator Ms Renita Joyce Fernandes extended a heartfelt welcome, setting the tone for the celebration. The traditional lamp-
lighting ceremony by dignitaries added a solemn touch, after which the trophies were unveiled along withthesymbolicAloysianFestBox . Padma Shri awardee Mr Shekhar Naik, former captain of the Indian BlindCricketTeam,gracedthe
occasionaschiefguestandinspired students with his journey of perseverance and resilience. Rev. Fr MelwinJPinto,SJ,Pro ChancellorSt Aloysius (Deemed to be University) and Rector, St Aloysius institutions, highlighted the importance of embracing both victories and setbacks with a positive spirit. Rev Dr. Praveen Martis SJ, Vice Chancellor, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University, further emphasized that failure should never be seen negatively, explaining it as an opportunityforgrowth.
The event was honored by the presence of dignitaries including Rev.FrMelwynD’CunhaSJ,ProVice Chancellor, Dr Ronal NazarethRegistrar St Aloysius (Deemed University), Dr Alwyn D’SaRegistrar St Aloysius College (Autonomous), Dr Loveena LoboDirectorofMaffeiBlockandDrAsha Abraham - Director of LCRI Block. Thevoteofthankswasproposedby staff coordinator Ms Jovita Carrol Soans, while Mr Henvil Valder comperedtheevent.
Valedictory ceremonies were organizedbyindividual
departments to award event wise winners, followed by a grand prize distribution programme presided over by Rev. Dr. Melwyn D’Cunha SJ and the Chief Guest Dr Alwyn Dsa alongwithotherdignitaries.
Aloysian Fest 2025 provided a national platform for over 2,400 students from 78 colleges to showcasetheirtalent,creativity,and innovative ideas. The fest encouraged collaboration and cultural exchange, leaving a lasting impressiononparticipants.
• ArkofArts
Winners:StAloysius(Deemed-
to-beUniversity)
Runners-up:NitteUniversity
• Quanta
Winners:StAloysius(Deemedto-beUniversity)
Runners-up:BesantWomen’s College,Mangalore
• Udhgam
Winners:StAloysius(Deemedto-beUniversity)
Runners-up:KristuJayanti University,Bangaluru
• Synapse
Winners: SDMCollege
Runners-up:NUCSER,Nitte University
• Saksham
Winners:NUCSER(Nitte)
Runners-up:RoshniNilaya
• Kalaatrividha
Winners:NSAMFGC,Nitte
Runners-up:St.Joseph’s College,Hassan Aloysiad(Sports)
• Throwball
Winners:StAloysius(Deemedto-beUniversity)
Runners-up:NMAMIT,Nitte, Karkal
• Volleyball
Winners:NMAMIT,Nitte
Runners-up:DrNSAMFGC, NitteKarkal
This grand celebration once again affirmedStAloysius(Deemed-to-be University)’s commitment to nurturingtalent,fosteringcreativity, and promoting innovation among students.
Career Passport-ASession on Resume Building
The PG Department of Computer Applications (MCA), St. Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, organized a session titled “Career Passport: A Session on Resume Building” on 11th September 2025 at 10am in the Seminar Hall for all theFirstYearMCAStudents.
The resource person for the session wastheAlumna,Ms.QueenieMaria Dcosta,SeniorGrowthConsultantat Bizom and Certified National
Trainer,JCIIndia.
Ms. Queenie began the session by explainingthedifferencebetweena resumeandaCV,theimportanceof resumes in professional life, and what one needs to know before creatingone.
The speaker concluded by emphasizing that the most challenging aspect of resume writing lies in being selective about what to include, as an effective resume should showcase only the most relevant and impactful information.
Seminar on “Intellectual Property Rights”
St. Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru hosted a seminar on Intellectual Property Rights, organized by the Department of PostgraduateStudiesandResearch
DepartmentinChemistry. ThiseventfeaturedDr.PraveenBM, Director of the Research and Innovation Council at Srinivas University, Mangalore, as the esteemedresourceperson.
Dr. Praveen delivered an insightful presentation, focusing on key aspects of intellectual property rights, including patent filing, copyrights, and protection procedures. The seminar aimed to equip students with knowledge on safeguarding innovations and
S u r f i n g.....
- Molly Pinto.
Challenges elicit from us the best version of ourselves
Our strength is developed in the dark, like a seed breaking out
Negative thoughts are like weeds that choke our growth
Inner growth makes one unshakable, when the waves crash
No two people were born for the same project, so there's no comparison
We come with our own maps and plans to accomplish
We may appreciate another's journey, but never envy
Focusing on our own challenges will build oneself respect
Challenges often misconstrued to be a curse, thus limiting our abilities
One should be encouraged to face the storms with resilience
To understand we're but waves in a mighty ocean, rising and falling
Nothing is permanent, except the ocean, where everything returns
Every challenge accomplished brings with it pride and power
Children should be taught that life is a project for self-growth
Sometimes you win, and sometimes someone else must win
This is the quality of life, and should be played in the spirit of the game
-Molly Pinto
Camões and Churchill
PhilomenaLawrence
GilbertA.Lawrence
Luís Vaz de Camões(1524-80) and Winston Spencer Churchill (WSC 1874-1965).
(FromLastweek)
