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Migration of Konkani people into Coastal Karnataka
(A Research Perspective of Dr. PremMorasPhD).
Dr. Prem Moras (Lecturer at Konkani, Mangalore University), as most Konkani followers are aware, secured a PhD after deep study of thesubjectanda wholesomecloser interest. He was interviewed by Fr. Jason Pinto, SDB, Udyavar, with a viewtorecordingthefinerpointsof Dr. Moras' research study. It is a pleasure to present to interested readers the salient points and
knowledge of the outcome, it really needs more awareness and admirationand better support for a Konkani Scholarof Mangalore. Let us take a closer glimpse of this vital matter:
Regarding Dr. Prem Moras' thesis, he enlightened it was on .... a study of the Konkani people who came from Goa to Mangaluru and its surroundingregions. Init, using the primary sources, an attempt to present authentic, historical informationonthemigrationof the Konkani people is the basis. Kanara cultureandthecultureoftheGoans resemble each other to a goodextent. Now, the question is, why did the Konkani people from Goa come to Mangaluru in such large numbers? There is no final answer to this question or an answerwithconclusiveproof.There are corroborative documents in Mangaluru,GoaaswellasinLisbon. Therearealsomanynovels,folklore and traditions that give many
accounts and stories. The aim is to verify how much of it is true and howmuchissimplyexaggeration.
Regarding the sources and such used the esteemedAuthor stated: Thereareoverahundredbooksand articlesused as sources for my study.Sourcesareessentialforsuch research. They can be categorized as primary and secondary sources. Stories, novels and other such creative literature cannot be considered as sources. Books in Portuguese and other written records of those times were more authentic. Among them, Agentes La Diplomacia Portuguesa na Índia (Hindus, Muculmanos, Judeus e Parses)byPandurangaPisurlekar of Goa, and Goaʼs Inquisition, Facts, Fiction and Factoids by Alan Machado-Prabhu proved very helpful books. Then there are Historical Archives of Goa , No.
3,071,‘ForaldasIlhasdeGoa,15531562, No. 7604, ‘Foral de 1622ʼ, No.7587, ‘Foral antigo de Bardez, 1645ʼ, No. 7604, ‘Foral de Salcete, 1567,copyof1585ʼ,No.7583-7585, ‘Foral de Salceteʼ , No. 10020, ‘Comunidas-Azossem, Deliberacoes e contas correntes, 1608 , No. 10043, ComunidadesCarambolim, 1615, have helped us to explain the situation prevailing during the period from the 15th to 17thCenturies.Forthisresearchthis scholaralsometseveralintellectuals in Goa as well as in Cochin (Kochi). Explaining further, Dr. Moras pointedoutwhyitwasnecessaryto goinsearchofseveralbooksonthe history of Konkani people; Konkani speaking Mangaloreans had come from Goa. Our general belief is that one of the reasons for migration from Goa is the Goan religious rites were ruled over by the Portuguese. Then, the Konkani people, for the sake of their own safety, left the country governed by Christianity and traveled to a country ruled by non-Christians, which is another belief. Thirdly, due to economic conditions, people came over to a peacefulcountryruledbytheKeladi Dynasty. Fourthly, because the
simple Goans found it difficult to abide by the social and economic practicesandformsimposedbythe Portuguese,thustheGoanconverts came to Kanara and so on. Further, the Portuguese began to compel the Goans towards a western society culture. The people were ordered to abide by the harsh rule of the Inquisition. Because of this the Christians left Goa and crossed the border into Coastal Karnataka. Also, deadly diseases, overcrowding, and external invasions are some of the other reasons for migration. When analyzing these reasons, the need for more research on them is seen asapossibility.
Continuing from the furthersourcesDr.Premmentioned that the general picture obtainedfrom several books is that the Portuguese came in with a
swordinonehandandacrossinthe otherandconverteda lotof people to Christianity. Many others fled furtherSouthandotherlands.Some of those books are story books. “Swapna Saraswat” by Gopal Krishna Pai “Mahaprasthan” by Dr KasthuriMohan Pai,“VodlemGhor” byUday Bembre, “Yuga Samvar” by Mahabaleshwar Sail, present the same situations. Their origin flows alongwiththestreamofthoughtsin Anant Kakaba Priyolkars “The Goa Inquisition, the terrible tribunal of the East”. That is, there is no research in it, only our false understanding that has come flowing in with the tide of creative literature.
Askedregardingthetimetakenfor the research and so on, Dr. Prem said that with existing proof of migration since the 12th century, which narrates that Konkani speaking people of Goa travelled in differentways to the Coastal regions of Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala for business purposes and the consequent fall out. In this researchwork,theemphasisismore on the events preceding and following the arrival of the
Portuguese. The belief is that the people using Konkani as their mother tongue have come from Goa.TheMangaloreDiocesecovers a region from the Kundapura Taluk totheKasaragodTaluk.TheKonkani People from Goa were scattered around the Mangalore Diocese and the Shimoga region and Kodagu too. But this research covers the present-dayDiocesesofMangalore,
Udupi and Shimoga. This research work is limited only to the history andthelifeoftheKonkanipeople.It covers primarily the Konkani Brahmins (present day GSB, CSB, RSB),KonkaniChristians,theKunbis andfewothers.
A question was put, inquisition being the primary cause of the migration,howdoesitreflectinthis research? Dr. Prem states: Inquisition is not the root cause of migrationoftheKonkaniChristians. In those times Hindu Kings ruled in the regions of Coastal Karnataka. If thosepeoplecameoverheredueto the fear of Conversion, they would have continued in the beliefs of their ancestors; the primary causes were others too. Even in Captivity under Tipu Sultan they did not relinquish their faith. The presence ofthePortugueseinMangaluruand KochishowsthatnotalltheKonkani people migrated for the same reason. Different timesofmigration exist, and groups had differentreasons too at different times.Onereasonistherelationship betweentheMaratharulersandthe Portuguese. Agriculture also was a reasonforsometomigrate.The
Keladi Kings offered land and jobs to the Konkani people due to their trustworthiness. Therefore, a lot of people from Goa migrated to the Coastal regions of Karnataka and began to settle down there. The Konkani Brahmins had already come over during the Vijayanagara
sovereignty and in control of the Jain religion, served as priests and worshippers in various temples to propagate the Hindu faith. Those who arrived in later batchesand times went into trade and agriculture.
Finally, Dr. Prem made a statement regarding hyper nationalism and history roots saying: As we read through the pages of history, we find that the historians, due to lack of proof, have presented various distortedpicturesoftheeventsthat hadtakenplaceinthosedays. After Indiaʼs independence and Goaʼs release from the Portuguese reign, somepeople,forthebenefitoftheir generation, twisted the events that had taken place. They established a thought that their ancestors suffered under the Portuguese and
alltheMaratharulersfoughtagainst the Portuguese. Today, an attempt is being made in Goa, to add some novelty to the history, by erecting statues of Shivaji in a lot of places. Inthiscontext,itisrecommendedto read/studytheoriginaltextsandthe contexts and know how complex this history is. Looking through the telescopicsightsofcasteandcreed, would only foment unrest and unnecessary chaos and strife.History is a complex subject and cannot be viewed with a caste and creed perspective. Dr. Prem Moras has great potentialfor the growth and development of Konkani Language, culture and historyata very critical time here in Kanara, let us wish him well and support him to rise to greater heightsforourfolksworldwide.
-Adapted for:VEEZNewsNet.
On Monday, September 29, 2025, Pope Leo XIV welcomed Prince SalmanbinHamadAlKhalifa,Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain, for a meeting that underscoredthegrowingfriendship betweenBahrainandtheVatican.As partofhisofficialvisittotheVatican City State and Italy, Prince Salman reaffirmed Bahrainʼs dedication to deepening ties and championing the ideals of tolerance and coexistence on the world stage. He brought warm greetings and best wishes from King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, expressing hope for the
Vaticanʼs lasting prosperity. Pope Leo XIV responded in kind, sending his regards to King Hamad and wishing Bahrain continued progress. The Prince also held talks with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, and Monsignor Mirosław Stanisław Wachowski, Under-Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations. The HolySeePressOfficenotedthatthe discussions touched on urgent global issues, including the need to end conflict in the Middle East and thepursuitofpeaceamongnations. Themeetingechoedthespiritofthe latePopeFrancisʼshistoric2022visit to Bahrain, which focused on fostering interfaith dialogue.
DiscoverGodʼsgoodnesseverydayjoin Shalom World News! https://whatsapp.com/channel/002 9VaDtvpyDDmFWVtAdhG1s
*Mandd Sobhann: New Executive Committee Formed*
Mangaluru: A new governing body has been formed for Mandd Sobhann, the world's premier Konkaniculturalorganization,which is set to enter its 40th year this November. The Committee members, who were elected at the recent Annual General Meeting, subsequently selected the office bearers for the year 2025-26.
Cultural leader, organizer of numerous large-scale events, and renowned Mangaluru-based businessman, Louis J. Pinto, will continue as the President. Poet Ronald Crasta will serve as the Secretary,andsingerSunilMonteiro will be the Treasurer. The names of the other office bearers are as follows: Coordinator: Stany Alvares, Vice President: Naveen Lobo, Joint Secretary:KishoreFernandes,Public Relations Officer: Victor Mathias, Drama: Arun Raj Rodrigues, Nach Sobhann:RahulPinto,Sumell:Raina Sequeira. Members: Keron Madtha, Alron Rodrigues, Irene Rebello, Rony Arun, Ajay Dsouza, Kingsley
Nazareth, Lawrence Dsouza, and Subhash Gowda.
The following individuals will serve as regional representatives: Honnavar: Steven Rodrigues Uttara Kannada: Jeevan Siddi, Goa: Fr. MiltonRodrigues,SaishPanandikar, Mumbai: Leo Fernandes, Dubai: Dayan Dsouza, Qatar: Sunil Dsilva, Australia: Wilson Dsouza, London: Sunil Dcunha, USA: Harriet Vidyasagar, Roy Castelino (Kalaangann Pirjent) and Ronald Mendonca (Chairman, Kalaangann Governing Body) will be ex-officio members.
Mandd Sobhann committee will be working towards fulfilling its Gurkar Eric Ozario's dream of taking Konkanipridetothepinnacleofthe world.Inthecomingyears,thereare planstodigitizeKonkanibooksinto eBooks to expand the eLibrary by creating "eBongsall" to gather all Konkaniliteratureunderone portal, and launch KonkaniShow.com to promoteandencourageperforming
arts,aswellasorganizeeventslikea children's literary festival. Additionally, Monthly Theatres, Sumell, Nach Sobhann, Mandd Theatre, Sur Sobhann, Summer Camps, and many other programs willcontinue.Tohonorthelegacyof
* Proud Moment for St Aloysius University *
We are thrilled to share that *St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru has been honored with the prestigious Chanakya Award
Eric Ozario, preparations are underway to unite Konkani people from every corner of the world to celebrate Konkani's unity in diversity and set a Guinness World Recordof12days,12hours,and12 minutes.
2025 for Leadership Excellence in Education by the Public Relations Council of India (PRCI). * Theawardwasreceivedonbehalfof the University by *Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis SJ, Honʼble Vice Chancellor, during the 19th Global Communication Conclave held on 26.09.2025 at Panjim, Goa.* This recognition is a testament to the University's unwavering commitment to academic excellence,visionaryleadership,and its impactful role in shaping future leaders.
* Congratulations to the entire Aloysianfamily!*
Life & Death-
Molly Pinto.
The ever-flowing cosmic dance, round we go
We're dying from the set go, yet we keep fighting health battles
Weep and mourn if diagnosed with a fatal disease
Spend our days working and feeding the bottomless pit
We're dying every day, apart from the accidental full stop
Our cells are not the same as the ones we were born with We're continuously shedding and we're inhaling every other person Isn't it amusing that some of us still believe in ourselves apart
The ever-flowing cosmic dance, like the seasons, plays on and on We're dying to live and living to die from our first breath
Like a game of tag, we keep chasing this dream until we truly wake up
From this daredevilry adventure we're playing, to learn
We're dying every day, but we fail to make connections
Our befuddled minds are unable to differentiate between fact and fable
Knowing too much too soon will totally sabotage our game
So feel the pain, eat the dirty, break the chains and rise again
-Molly Pinto
“MOST LOVING JESUS”
Wavesoftroublesinlife
Stormsoffearwestrive, Amidsttheoceanoftears,OLord, Withhopeinyouweabide O,mostlovingJesus, AllhonourandGloryBethine, ShowusyourkindnessandMercy, ForeverBemine,
Beneath yourShadowO,Lord, Feelcomforted,BoldandBrave, BeingfilledwiththeHolyspirit, Beclosetoyou,
WithPoweroftheSpirit Andstrengthofyourwordsalwaystrue, Onyourfeetonthisday, OLord,ISurrenderMyselftoyou.
SAVINGS FOR THE FUTURE
“Wecometotheearthwithnothing andwhenwedie,wetakenothing” . But to live a stable and happy life, we should be financially strong enough. It is truly understood that to survive and to gain our daily bread, we must work to earn the money. But most of the times, we spent our whole life in earning and not in savings. Hence along with earnings, saving plays a very importantroleinourlife.
“Itisnotoursalarythatmakesus richratheritʼsourspendinghabits makes us rich” . So, whatever we earn whether big or small amount, savings takes very important role.
Letusseesomeoftheeasytipshow canwesavetheearnings.
There is a formula called 50-30-20 Money Saving Rule which we can implement to save from our earnings.Outofyourtotalearnings, divideinto50%, 30%and20%. Ourfixedexpensesshouldgowithin this 50% criteria. These are the mandatory expenses which we
cannot avoid like food, groceries, rental,utilitybills,EMISetc.
Our Flexible spending should go within this 30% criteria like dining out, clothes, entertainment, travel, humanity and charity etc. Here we can reduce the spent from 30% to even20%dependsonus.Alsokeep away from bad habits like drinking and smoking which is unnecessary spendingandnobenefitforus.
Then the final 20% should be our savingsforourfutureintheformof RD, Insurance, Fixed deposit. This
20% percentage of saving we can even increase till 30% from our salary depending on our saving habit.
“Do not save what is left after spending,but spend what isleft aftersaving”. Hence saving takes placeveryimportantroleinourlife. Therearemanytypesofsavings.
1)Bank-Wecansaveinthebank
2)through SB Account, FD, RD or mutualfunds.
3)Investinginthegoldforthe
futureuseanditwillbelikeanasset.
4)Investinginthe house or shopor landintheformofassets.
“Savemoneyandmoneywillsave
you” . Before itʼs too late, we must
think on savings. There are lot of benefitsinthesavings,andwehave listedhereasbelow.
1)Freedom from finance, freedom from choice and freedom to take riskwithoutfear.
2)Freedomtomakedecisions.
3)Longtermhappinesscomesfrom achieving long term goals and not frommomentarypleasures
4)A sense of safety & security-less stressandmoreconfidence.
5)LeadingtoLongandHealthyLife.
6)Fulfillingyourdreams
It is also very important that out of our total earnings, some amount shouldbeusedforcharity/humanity asasurrenderto Godwhichwecan extract from our 30% budget rule. We should even use the money to help others and respect the money,
andmoneywillmakeusgrowinour life. Also note money should be honestly earned without hurting or paining somebody. Only patience makesusrichandmoneycomewith patienceonly.
“A Penny saved is Penny earned”. Finally, we conclude that savings should be started right now if we have not yet started. It will help us in emergencies and in our old ages without depending on anyone. Spend wherever required and save as much as you can and you will enjoyyourlifejourneyinthisearth.
-RoshanDsouza,Kinnigoly
Golden Bliss – Moong Dal Halwa
“Happiness is homemade… and sometimes, it tastes like warm halwa melting in your mouth.”
Ingredients (for one bowl of pure joy)
1. Moong Dal – 1 cup
2. Cashews – 10 nos
3. Raisins – 8 nos 4. Almonds – 10 nos 5. Ghee – 6 tbsp 6. Gram Flour (Besan) – 1 tbsp
7. Water – 4 cups
8. Sugar – 1 cup
9. Cinnamon Powder – 1 tsp
Method – The Art of Halwa Making
1. “Good food begins with patience.” Wash and clean the moong dal, pat it dry, and let it shine.
2. In a pan, roast the moong dal gently until it turns golden and fragrant. Cool it and grind into a fine powder – like golden dust.
3. In another vessel, boil water and keep it ready – it will soon bring magic to your halwa.
4. Warm ghee in a frying pan, drop in the cashews, raisins, and almonds. Let them dance until golden, then set aside.
5. In the same pan, add ghee + gram flour, stir until it gives a nutty aroma.
6. Now add the moong dal powder. Stir and roast for 2 minutes – “This is where love meets flavor.”
7. Slowly pour in the boiling water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Watch the mixture transform into creamy silk.
8. Add sugar, cinnamon powder, and the fried dry fruits. Stir well until it glistens.
9. Serve warm, because… “A spoonful of halwa is a spoonful of happiness.”
Serving Ideas – Make it Innovative
Serve in small clay pots for an earthy aroma.
Garnish with edible rose petals & silver leaf for a royal touch.
Pair with vanilla ice cream for a fusion dessert.
Add a drizzle of saffron milk on top for a festive twist.
Mangalorean Catholic Association of Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (MCA
DMV) Celebrates ‘Monti Fest 2025’
Report by: V James Dante
ThefeastoftheNativityofOurLady was celebrated on Saturday, September13,2025,bymembersof the Mangalorean Catholic AssociationofWashington,D.C.,
Maryland, and Virginia. The annual celebration took place at the St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Indian Head, MD, with a crowdofover125attendees. The members gathered at 10am at the Indian Head parish as one community with love faith and gratitude,rememberingourroots,
honoring our heritage and giving thanks to our blessed mother Mary for her protection, blessings, bountiful harvest and intercessions inourlives.
The celebration began with a graceful procession, led by Fr. Brian Coelho followed by a line up carrying infant MotherMary and
new corns-Novem along with little children joyfully holding flower baskets and plates, as voices rose together in the beloved hymn “SokkodSangathaMelyam”. At the Mother Mary grotto, each child reverently placed a flower at Infant Maryʼs feet – a touching scene of devotionandinnocence.ThenFr.
Brian Coelho, assisted by Fr. Tony D'souzaatthebeautifullyadorned
heartfelt singing elevated the Solemnityoftheoccasionmakingit
spiritually auspicious. The Choir, underthespiritedleadershipof
MalinandClintwiththeirdedicated efforts, commitment and coordination, brought a
mesmerizing and resounding festive joy and reverence. The choir included Clint, Malin, Evonne, Alina, Eben, Ethan, Jaden, Joshua, Prash and Anitha. Melson Martis and Dylan Lobo assisted as the altar boys,Prayerofthefaithfulwasread
byKiara,Jake,Jack,Hazel,Ebenand Sarah, Offertory prayers were read byShanayaFernandes.
After the Mass, our Vice President Neville DʼCunha delivered a meaningful and heartfelt vote of thankswrappedwithwarmth,grace and humor, honoring every contribution with gratitude and appreciation. Then a group photo was captured by designated photographer of the day Ivon Lobo toaddtothecherishedmemories. After the group picture, everyone moved to the nearby church hall that has been beautifully decorated by our volunteer members earlier. Our Treasurers Stephanie and Genevieveensuredasmoothflowat the registration desk. The festive atmosphere continued with whiteand-blue décor that set the place for celebration. As everyone was seated, the delicious, flavored and refreshing Novem milk prepared by Harold Dsouza was served as a welcomingdrink.
Our President Flavie Rebello welcomedeveryonewitha heartfelt speech, expressing gratitude, appreciation,andexcitementforthe festivities ahead, while also
remembering in prayer Merlyn, our secretary,whocouldnotattenddue to the recent loss of herbrother-inlaw.
After the blessing of food by Fr. Brian – a banquet of sumptuous authentic and traditional Mangalorean Monti Fest delicacies that were lovingly prepared, spread andsupergenerouslyservedbyour leading members Julia Dante and Prema DʼSouza along with other MCAvolunteers.Thededicationand hardworkofpreparationoffoodfor the attendees by a few volunteer members truly deserves a grateful appreciation. Everyone pitched in both big and small ways to make thefeastsoabundant.
The joy didnʼt stop there! Clintʼs Trivia had everyone laughing, thinking, and bonding over our shared heritage. The energy carried forward into a vibrant cultural program, bursting with talent, entertainment, and community spirit– theperfectwaytocrownthe dayʼscelebrations.
Jake and Jack had stunning Violin performances, Hazel Pinto had an electrifying solo dance performance,RenitaandTiffanyhad a phenomenal Mother-daughter
dance performance. Next came a hilarious Konkani comedy skit with skilled actors - James Dante, Julia DanteandIvonLobo.Itwasbrilliant; comedy treat spot on! FM Then came rocking and incredible group dance performance by Clint, Clement, Brian, Ethan, Joshua, Jaden, Eben, Evonne and Noah, it was truly wonderful and a powerhouse performance!!! Then camelittleboyNoahDcunhawitha solo performance, his energy and hyped spirit attracted the crowd to dancealongwithhim.InstantlyBaila got added in and enthusiastic people stepped in to grove, perfect Mangalorean Baila dance added so much cheer and fun!! Then came Little Abner who sang beautifully in his angelic cute little voice and innocentcharm!Adorable!
And to wrap up this celebration, everyone gathered once more over steaming cups of chai, crispy
samosas, and melt-in-your-mouth sheera–theperfectsweetendingto a festive day! At the end of the event, everyone left with full hearts, happy stomachs, and big smiles –the very spirit of Monti Fest loved andcelebratedtothefullest.
The event was made possible by –our vibrant and resolute committee members with their tireless and selflesseffortsandinitiatives,clergy, volunteers, sponsors, choir, cultural performers, members and every attendee –makingthisyearʼs Monti Fest a true celebration of faith, culture, and a joyful community celebration. Together, we not only honored Our Lady but also celebrated our heritage and the unity that binds us as Mangaloreans.
We hope to continue to cherish these memories and carry the joy andblessingsofMontiFestintoour livesuntilwemeetagainnextyear!
Honors Diocesan Clergy in Fellowship
Conference of Religious of India (CRI), Mangalore Unit, hosted a special day for the Diocesan Clergy of Mangalore to celebrate Pastorsʼ Day on Wednesday, October 2nd. The event, held at St. Josephʼs
Seminary in Jeppu, was a highlight of the ongoing Jubilee Year, bringing together religious members and clergy in a spirit of communion.
ThedaycommencedwithaSolemn
EucharisticCelebrationatSt.Joseph Church, Jeppu. The Mass was presided over by the Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, and concelebrated by Retired Bishop Aloysius Paul DʼSouza. A congregation of 55 priests and 65 religious women participated,settingaprayerfuland gratefultoneforthedayʼsfestivities. Following the spiritual gathering, the celebration moved to the Jubilee Hall, where CRI President Fr. Dominic Vas extended a warm welcome to all attendees. The atmosphere was further brightened by a vibrant welcome dance performed by the talented candidates of the Bethany congregation from Rosa Mystica, Gurpur.
The program included an engaging interactive quiz session led by Fr. Melwin Pinto, SJ, which kept the participants intellectually stimulated. A focused group discussion followed, providing a platform for meaningful dialogue andreflectionamongtheclergyand religious. The winners of the quiz were later awarded prizes, adding a celebratorynotetothesession.
In his concluding remarks, CRI Secretary Fr. Anisio Mota delivered the vote of thanks, expressing profound gratitude to everyone who contributed to the event's success. The day culminated in a fellowship meal, allowing for informal interaction and strengthening the bonds within the diocesanfamily. The event was marked by the significant presence of Superior Generals,Provincials,andSuperiors. The active participation of Bishop PeterPaulSaldanhathroughoutthe program was particularly noted, adding immense joy and meaning to the occasion. The CRI Executive Committee was lauded for their dedicated coordination and commitment, which resulted in a spiritually enriching and fraternal eventforall.
Dr. Sadanar Shetty Speech:
Dr.SadanarShettyfrom K.JSomaya Hospital and Research Centre and Somaya Super Specialty Hospital. I am a senior cardiologist in this institute.Iamheretogiveyoubasic information about heart health on World Heart Day. As we all know, World Heart Day is celebrated on 29th September every year and the World Federation keeps one theme every year to create an awareness about heart diseases. So also, this
year,thethemeisDon'tmissabeat, which basically means that we shouldnotbeignoringhearthealth. We must take necessary action to prevent heart disease, and we must prioritize our health, particularly for heart-related illnesses. As you all know, one of the most important reasons why heart diseases are on the increase more so currently is because of the lifestyle factors whichaffecteveryindividual,
particularlytheyoungergeneration.
The stress, particularly the mental stress and so also the habit of eating, not taking regular walk and taking junk food you know and takingtobaccoandyouknowdoing smoking etc. are the common reasonwhywegetthesediseasesso also the sleep is very important for the people to prevent or to minimize the effect of sleep related issues for the heart When we talk about this awareness on this World Art Day, we essentially mean you have to take care of your heart diseases, particularly whenever we
get any symptoms related to this illness, we have to take action, we have to approach and we have to cometotheinstituteorthehospital to take necessary action. very important thing in prevention is whether we are suffering from diabetes hypertension or dyslipidemia that is high cholesterol, taking these lifestyle diseases very critically, taking care of blood pressure diabetes dyslipidemia very aggressively right fromtheyoungagewillmakealong way in real prevention of heartrelateddiseases,particularly
coronary heart disease. In simple terms, we call it myocardial infarction. Most important thing in case of heart health is doing the regularwalkat least30 minutesper day, five days a week, and taking balanced diet to see weight, not to indulge in fast food once in a while is fine, avoiding smoking and tobacco-related products, and whenever illness like hypertension and diabetes exist, we have to take measure of this particular medication. Currently, according to me, we can easily prevent heart diseases and diseases related to these three lifestyle diseases like heartfailure,stroke,renalfailureetc. Younger people should be very cautious when we have a strong family history. So, at the age of say 18to20yearsmaybewhenweenter college is a time for one to check their blood pressure, check their sugar status and the cholesterol
status. More so in people who have got a sedentary lifestyle, who are obese and who have got a strong family history, they must be more cautious, and we must pick up this illness very early. Many times, peoplearesufferingatayoungage, buttheactionisnevertaken.Andby the age of 30, 35, 40 years, you know, complicationrelatedtothese three lifestyle diseases occurs and suddenly patient gets a myocardial infarction that is heart attack we must believe and according to me that heart attack doesn't occur just overnight in just you know in a day or a few days it does give some warning signal to the person but peoplearecarelessaboutittheyare more into career oriented work and not bothered about the health and many times these heart related diseases are silent in the sense it may not give symptoms in the beginning but when it gives
symptoms we have to immediately take action and we have to approachhospitalwehavetodothe necessary checkup and we have to take necessary action to me Today, theprogressissomuchinthisheart health and heart related diseases. Like a student like us, we have emergencyservicearoundtheclock 24 by 7. Any acute chest pain, whenever they get, we can attend the casualty emergency room and necessary action can be taken immediately. Very importantly, the symptoms which are, you know, suggestive of heart disease like a
heart attack should be recognized early. That early recognition is very important. Many times, patients spend or waste time and they attend hospital very late. By that time complication of the heart attack occurs, their heart pump weakens, the heartbeat goes very fast. And then whatever we do intervention like doing angiogram, doing angioplasty, bypass, etc. is the results are not that good unlike whenpatientattendsintime.Somy important message on this particular day don't be severe means you should be aware of the heart health we have to take necessary action to keep heart health it is one's own responsibility to keep heart healthy like whatever methods i mentioned so prioritize your health particularly when we have this heart health and take necessarymedicationdrugsandnot only taking drugs but effectively
controlling blood pressure controllingthatbloodsugarandthe cholesterol level is very important because just taking pill and if these threeillnessesarenotundercontrol again the treatment is not completed And this is the main suggestion or information I want to givetothepeoplewhoarelistening tomeandallthepeople concerned in this area. Friends, one more important information regarding the exercise I want to communicate here. Many times, we observe in younger people taking very intensiveexerciseinthegym.taking high protein and the hormonal medication, which is not advisable. Normally, whenever we talk about exercise for heart fitness, it is exercise which is, you know, giving enough oxygen and maintaining heart health. Therefore, brisk walks, cycling, swimming, what is called isotonic exercises, are recommended. Two days a week resistant exercises are recommended wherein people can takelittleextra weightandtheycan do the isometric type exercises. So essentiallypeoplewhoaresuffering with heart disease taking heavy intensive exercise using these
various preparations are not available. Since we do see occasional cases whenever they do high intensive exercise or during taking this exercise suddenly they get heart attack and sudden death which are basically because of the exercise is beyond what heart can take up and suddenly the arteries having coronary flux which is atheroma suddenly giving way and rupturing and giving it to sudden deathandmaybeheartattacksomy recommendation here not to take very high intensive exercises gaming with very heavy weight particularly people who are suffering and taking these high proteinandyouknowthehormonal therapy are un-physiological, so we recommend exercise for the heart health which are physiological, as I mentioned.Thankyou.
KJSOMAIYAHOSPITALAND RESEARCHCENTRE
SomaiyaTRUST WORLDHEART DAY29SEPTEMBER
JoinusfortheHeartCare AwarenessProgram 29thSept202510.00AM 3rdFloorAuditorium,KJSomaiya Hospital
Konkan Taram, St Jude’s Church, Jerimeri celebrates
FloraD’Souza,Jerimeri
Mumbai, Sep 25: Almost 600 Catholic crowd gathered on Sunday,
its 34th Monti Fest
September 14 at St Judeʼs Church, Jerimeri to celebrate the feast of the Nativity of Mother Mary (Monti Fest).
ThiseventwasorganizedbyKONKAN TARAM, a Konkani Association of St Judeʼs Church, Jerimeri as being their 34th Monti Fest. Ceremony began at 6.45 am with showeringof flowers by childrenandyouth,followedby Mass in Konkani, main celebrant was Fr Prem Prakash DʼSouza, redemptorist
priest Fr Alias
John
also,inculturalprogramme.
Musician John Mascarenhas and the
Fr John Britto were honoured with flower bouquets by John R
Mascarenhas, Leo Fernandesand JulianaOliverarespectively.
Flora DʼSouza compered the felicitation programme and thanked parishpriest,Sponsors,donorsandall the parishners for their support and cooperation.
The Konkan Taram members distributed snacks, sweets, sugarcane (sponsored by Paschal Miranda) and notebooks (sponsored by Miss Eliane Fernandes,MiraRoad)tothechildren andparishioners.
Many devotees waiting anxiously everyyeartocelebratethisMontiFest and taking part in the solemn Eucharist. NovemJevann&culturalprogramme was held in the evening. Programme began with the prayer dance presented by members of the association Mercin, Precilla and Anitha.
ParishpriestFrAliasbeingthechief
guest, inaugurated the function by lightingofLampwithguestofhonour Fr John Britto, Sr Seema, Sr Joanna & President WalterDʼSouza.
Traditional pan phod and godd udak served by President Walter DʼSouza andJohnRodrigues.
Studentswhoscored70%&abovein SSC during this Academic year were felicitated with certificates, gift vouchers&flowerbouquets.Theyare Miss Karkera Pearl Samatha (95%), Pinto Janice Jerome (92.60%), Lewis ShawnPatrick(92%),GodinhoJoanna Joaquim (80%), Anushka Ravi Bharati (76.40%), Chirayath Samuel Thomas (76.40%) & Rodrigues Placido Patrick (74.80%),
Precilla Rodrigues conducted this felicitation programme and thanked themembersoftheKT–Flora,Juliana Mascarenhas&JohnRodandFrAlias felicitated them with a Gift for their highestcollectionofsponsorship.
Gracy, Sevrin, John Rod & Clayton presentedaKonkaniSkit“PIRKIS”and Mercin, Precilla, Anita, Maria and Flora presented their energetic performancetothetuneof“Choichoi choi tho render Maddar chodta/Hem Monglur amchem”. Youth of the
Parish Clayton, Venecia, Rasila, Revin, Melita,Helson,PlacidoandFionaalso presented Mando Dance and Roystonand Alisha presented a comedy. All these performances made the crowd happy with their spectacular performance, leaving everyonewantinganencore.
Blessed novem mixed with milk servedtoall.
FrJohnBritto&SrSeemaappreciated the Konkan Taram Team for this wonderful Feast celebration followed by noven jevann by putting in their hard work to make this event a great success.
FloraDʼSouzathankedoneandall whosupported&cooperatedto
arrange this Monti Fest (Mass & Novem Jevan) like Fathers, Sisters, donors, parishioners, youth & children, decorator, DJ etc., especially for all the members for their hard efforts in making these events a grand success.
Jovila compered this programme in fluent Konkani and she too entertained the crowdwith her jokes and conducted Lucky Draw games.
Programme ended with Laudate singing followed by mouthwatering delicious vegetarian Mangalorean dinner, which was served on banana leaves prepared byJohnMeals.
(News: Rons Bantwal)
Mumbai: Christian Chamber of Commerce and Industries Annual Awards Ceremony
Encouraging achievers through awards:
ArchbishopJohnRodrigues
(News: Rons Bantwal)
Mumbai, Sept. 27:The contribution of CCCI to the growth of the community through faith and service is truly meaningful. As disciples of Jesus Christ, our first response mustbetoplace ourtrust in God. He alone is the fortress and
the foundation of stability in our lives. He is the one who holds together every aspect of our life.
CCCI has played a remarkable role in service. Itʼs efforts to unite people, to motivate and encourage them,
are commendable. By honoring achievers with awards, it further inspires success, saidArchbishop Most Rev. John Rodrigues of the ArchdioceseofBombay.
ThisSaturdayevening, the Christian Chamber of Commerce and
Industry (CCCI) held its20th Annual AchieversAwards2024-2025atthe Emerald Banquet Hall, Hotel Kohinoor Continental, Andheri East, Mumbai. Archbishop John Rodrigues was present as the Chief Guest,presentingawardsto
achievers and addressing the gathering.
The annual award function was presided over by CCCI Chairman Albert W.DʼSouza. The event was graced by distinguished
guests includingProf. Dr. Suhas Pednekar, formerViceChancellorof Mumbai University as Guest of Honour, CCCI Founder ChairmanVincentMathias, Vice Chairman Adv. Pius Vas(Awards CommitteeConvener)and
Pednekar said thatTransformation of the nation is possible only through education. It is indeed appropriate that platforms like this invite educationists for keynote addresses,becauseeducationisthe
the way for change. Teaching is the
onlyprofessionthatshapesallother professions, and CCCIʼs service in encouraging professionals is noteworthy.
In his presidential address, Albert DʼSouza remarked While we look back on our journey, we must also focus on the future ahead. The
rapidlychangingtechnology,global complexities, and deep opportunitiesareshapingourtimes. This year, two major forces have been transforming the economic and industrial sectors globally, includingIndia-ArtificialIntelligence (AI)andanewwaveofglobaltalent. In this context, we must respond with resilience, collaboration, and strategic adaptability. Chambers of Commerce must become the voice for fair trade and extend support to members through education and guidance.
He further added: CCCIʼs social initiatives have laid a strong foundation for milestones in our community, and Itake pride inthat. Thevaluesoftodayʼsawardwinners are a testimony to their service in theirrespectivefields.AsCCCIsteps into its 28th year of service, it will continuetoactivelyservesociety.
The awards sponsors Vincent Mathias,AlbertW.DʼSouza,Clotilda Sequeira and Anthony Sequeirarecognized the achievers.CCCI's Velvin Packaging Pvt. Ltd. Social Service Awarded to Sister Michelle Pereira MSA
(Stenography from Burnleys Institute, Fort, Bombay, Stenographer at Hindustan Petroleum, Churchgate Mumbai),CCCI'sPattathuBrothersWomen Entrepreneur Awarded to Ms. Pooja Arambhan (Corporate Lawyer turned HealthTech Entrepreneur), CCCI's Arcadia Share & Stock Brokers Pvt. Ltd. Excellence inArts,CultureandSportsAwarded to Alfred J. DʼSouza (FounderChairmanof the Stop-GapsCultural Academy),CCCI's Aldel Education Trust - Young Entrepreneur Awarded to Mr. Caleb Fernandez (Co-Founder of Kilowatt, an enterprise An IT Company), CCCI's Daniel & Sons - Public Service Awarded to Smt. Nancy DʼSouza (Additional Commissioner of Customs, CGST, and Central Excise, Bhiwandi),CCCI'sReliableIndustries - Excellence in Education Awarded to Dr.MarieFernandes(Principalof St.Andrew'sCollegeofArts,Science and Commerce),CCCI's Electropneumatics & Hydraulic (I) Pvt. Ltd - Industry Awarded to Mr. Richard Cyril Rodrigues (Managing Partner and CEO of Karnataka Agencies, Mangalore). The awardees expressed their gratitude
and lauded the service rendered by CCCI.
The ceremony was attended by CCCIVicePresidentsAgnelloRajesh AthaideandGregory DʼSouza, Directors Lawrence Coelho, Ralph Pereira, Alan Castelino, Lawrence DʼSouza, Adv. Malbin Victor; Past PresidentsHenry Lobo, Anthony Siqueira, Prescilla Walter Buthello(Permanent Invitee), Former Police CommissionerRonnie H. Mendonca,Dr. Snehal Pinto and severaldistinguishedmembers.
Vernon Mathias, Denica Pereira, Rohan Tellis, Aldridge DʼSouza, Reuben Buthello, Adv. Chaital Vas and Alan Barbozaintroduced the awardees. Elvina A.DʼSouza and Adv. Genevieve P. Vas honored the guests with floral tributes.Adv. Pius Vas and Gregory DʼSouza introducedthe Guests. The programme was compered byJonita Noronha and Agnello Rajesh Athaideproposed the vote of thanks. The ceremony concluded withthenationalanthem.
Earlier in the evening, the 27th Annual General Body
MeetingofCCCI washeldunderthe chairmanshipofExecutivePresident Albert W. DʼSouza. Executive SecretaryRohan Telliswelcomed the gathering, conducted the proceedings, and expressed gratitude. This book is available on Amazon.com both in hard copy & Kindle editions.
‘A
Birthday, Msgr. Leslie Shenoy Dedicates
₹1.2 Crore Senior Citizen Home in Puttur
Pics & report by Canara CommunicationCentre Puttur, October 4, 2025: In an extraordinary act of personal philanthropy, Rev. Msgr. Leslie
Shenoy today, on his 78th birthday, gifted a new sanctuary for the elderlytothecatholiccommunityof Puttur, Mangalore and beyond. The Msgr. Leslie Shenoyʼs Senior Citizen Home,astate-of-the-artfacility
built from his life's savings, was blessed and inaugurated in a ceremony filled with emotion and gratitude.
TheinauguraleventsbeganasDrSr
Florine Mathias, administrator of Fr Patrao Hospital, unveiled the
ceremonial plaque. The symbolic red ribbon was cut by Rev. Sr Jeyarani Arulanandu, Provincial Superior, officially opening the doors to what will be a haven of "love,care,anddignity."
During the blessing, Msgr. Shenoy handedthekeystothefacilitytothe sisters of St. Joseph of Tarbes Convent, who will manage the home. In a moment of poignant clarity, he addressed the gathered
crowd, stating, "There are no benefactors for this building. All contribution comes from me, me alone, and from my retirement fund." His words underscored the deeplypersonalnatureofthe₹1.2
home, "a dream realized through God'sblessings.Thishomewillbea
place of love, care, and dignity for ourelders."
A celebratory Holy Mass followed, where the theme of selfless giving was beautifully articulated. In a powerful sermon, Rev. Fr Antony
Shera, Parish Priest of Mulki, drew from the life of St Francis of Assisi.
"He chose to be poor," Fr Shera preached, urging the faithful to become"instrumentsofpeace."The message resonated deeply, mirroring the day's events and the quiet generosity of the home's benefactor. The celebration was witnessed by a distinguished gathering of clergy andlaity,includingRev.FrLawrence Mascarenhas, Dean of the Puttur Deanery; Rev. Fr Santhosh Rodrigues,DirectorofShanthiKiran Diocesan Pastoral Centre; Rev. Dr Antony Prakash Monteiro; Fr Benjamin Pinto, Urwa, Fr F. X. Gomes. Fr James Dsouza,
Vamanjoor, Fr Wilson Dsouza and Rev.FrAshokRayanCrasta.
The community sisters joyfully celebrated Msgr. Leslie Shenoy's birthday and gratefully felicitated for his benevolence, goodwill, and generosity.
ADreamofHealingandHeart ForthesistersofStJosephofTarbes, the home is the culmination of a long-held vision. "For many decades, our mission and ministry at Fr Patrao Hospital have been dedicated to offering health servicesandhealingwithlove,"said Dr. Sr Florine Mathias. "We always wanted to have a house for the aged. Today, this dream has been realized through the profound goodnessofMsgr.Shenoy."
The home will initially provide 10 beds, offering compassionate care
forCatholicsenior citizens,withthe potentialforfutureexpansion. ALegacyofUnendingGenerosity Msgr. Leslie Shenoy is a name synonymous with philanthropy across the Diocese of Mangalore. Hisgeneroussupportforeducation, healthcare, and social development has created a legacy of compassion andprogress.Beyondthislatestgift, heiscelebratedforestablishinga₹1 crore scholarship fund under the CatholicBoardofEducation(CBE)to support young students, a fund he has already pledged to increase by another ₹50 lakhs. His life's work, crowned by this new home for the aged, stands as a powerful testament to a faith expressed through action, inspiring all who witnessedittoday.
ORDINATIONS AT FRH, MANGALURU
Four Jesuit deacons were ordained priests by Rev Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, on October 04, 2025, in the Divine Mercy Church, Fatima Retreat House. The newly ordained priests are: Frs Nishanth Noronha, Preethesh Misquith, Pruthvi Rodrigues, and Sharun DʼSouza.
In his homily, in his homily the Bishop encouraged the deacons to inculcatethevaluesofaprophetsof hope in our time of darkness. He added, “Prophets need to know Christandgivehismessageofhope to the people entrusted to their care. ”
TheProvincialofKarnatakaJesuit
Province, Fr Dionysius Vaz SJ, thanked the Bishop and all present – priests, religious, friends and relatives of the new priests. After the Mass the new priests and theirparentswerefelicitated. Fr
Sharun DʼSouza spoke on behalf of the new priests and thanked all the personswhohad,atdifferentstages of their life, accompanied them on their journey towards priesthood. Fr Leston Lobo and Sch Rudolf
DʼSouza prepared the deacons for theordinationceremonywiththe beautiful liturgy. Fr Vishwas Misquith was the Master of CeremoniesattheOrdinationMass.
-SambramDigital
BloodDonation Campheld atSt Aloysius University
OnNationalBloodDonorsDayand Gandhi Jayanthi, the NCC Wings and the Youth Red Cross
Association of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru, in collaborationwiththeRegional
Blood Transfusion Centre, District Wenlock Hospital, Mangaluru, organized a blood donation camp on30thSeptember2025.
A total of 76 units of blood was collected from students, staff, and NCC cadets. The camp was inaugurated by Dr. Sharath Kumar, Head of the Department, Wenlock Blood Bank. Pro-Vice Chancellor, Rev. Dr. Melwyn D'Cunha SJ, presidedovertheprogramme. NCC and Youth Red Cross Association officers and volunteers actively coordinated the camp, ensuring its smooth and successful conduct.
Centenary of the Sainthood and the SolemnityofSt. Thérèse ofChildJesus
The Cloistered Carmel Sisters of Sacred Heart Monastery, Kankanady, joyfully celebrated the CentenaryoftheSainthoodandthe Solemnity of St. Thérèse of Child Jesus from September 28 to October 1, 2025. The celebration wasmarkedbyanexhibitiononthe life of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, which drewmanyfaithfultoreflectonher simpleyetprofoundspirituality. The Triduum was observed on
September 28, 29, and 30, preparing the faithful for the feast. On the feast day, October 1, the Eucharistic Adoration was prayerfully led by Fr. Ligoury Crasta from 4:15 to 5:15 p.m., creating a
deeply spiritual atmosphere before theSolemnEucharisticCelebration.
The main celebrant of the feast day Mass was Very Rev. Dr. Pius James DʼSouza OCD, Definitor General, whohighlightedinhishomilythe
inspiring life and virtues of St. Thérèse,encouragingthefaithfulto follow her “Little Way” of love and sacrificeintheirdailylives.
The Solemn Eucharist was cocelebratedbyFr. Philbert, Fr. Vinod,
Fr.Richard,Fr.Ratan,Fr.Ligoury, Fr. Gregory,andFr.Barochas,addingto the grace and solemnity of the occasion. The presence of the concelebrants and the participation ofthe faithfulmadethe celebration a moment of thanksgiving and renewaloffaith.
The Cloistered Carmel Sisters expressedtheirgratitude to all who joinedtheminprayeranddevotion, makingtheCentenaryofSainthood of St. Thérèse of Child Jesus a memorableandgrace-filledevent. -SambramDigital
Rose Gonsalves, wife of our distinguished Ambassador Eric Gonsalves, passed away on September 27th. She was 94.
Rosemarie (Rose) was born on 19 May 1931, the youngest of six childrenofManuelAnthonyTimothy Coelho and Minnie nee Lobo. Her mother belonged to the Lobo
Prabhufamilywhodonatedtheland that now comprises St Aloysius College,Mangalore.
Roseʼsmaternalgrandmother,Mrs
Magdalena Monica Lobo, was the first president of the prestigious Ladiesʼ Club, Mangalore, founded in 1918. Mrs Lucy Sreshta was its first Secretary.
Roseʼs father M.A.T. Coelho was a District Judge in Madras City – and mayhavebeenelevatedtotheHigh CourtBench,wereitnotforhisearly deathin1945attheageof50.
Roseʼs mother Minnie was a first cousin of my father – and I take this opportunity to attach a vintage photograph of Minnie Coelho and her children. It dates back to the mid-1930s.
MinnieCoelhoisseatedatthewheel – she and her sister Lizzie (standing beside her) were both pioneers among Indian women holders of driving licences. Five of her six
childrenareinthepicture–including Rose, who is seated atop the fender abovetherightfrontwheel. Iamnot sure of the identity of the man with his hands resting on the bonnet of thecar.
In the 1940s, Rose was one of the teenage beauties of the Mangalorean community of Madras. My late mother, who was Roseʼs second cousin, used to compare Rose to her own younger sister Blossom. Rose and Blossom were of the same age – both were sweet16 in the historicyearof 1947 – and my mother always said that both were most appropriately named, as they were reminiscent of flowersinbloom.
Roseprobablygraduatedalongwith thefirstbatchofstudentsfromStella MarisCollege, Madras – founded by the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary in 1947. At the time of her graduation in 1950, her future life partner, Eric Gonsalves – who, following a brilliant academic career inwhichhehadstoodfirstinMadras Presidency in his High School Examination, and followed with a degreefromLoyolaCollege,Madras
– had just qualified for the Indian Foreign Service with the 5th rank in theAll-IndiaEntranceExamination.
RoseandEricweremarriedatSan Thome Cathedral, Madras, on 6 February1954.
A report of the ‘society weddingʼ of Rose and Eric featured in the communitymagazine‘Mangaloreʼ. I takethisopportunitytoreproduceit below:
The marriage of Mr. Eric Gonsalves, the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. L. Gonsalves of Bramley, Ootacamund, with Miss Rose MarieCoelho,daughterofthelate Mr. M.A.T. Coelho, District Judge, and Mrs. Minnie Coelho, was celebrated at the Mylapore Cathedral, Madras, on 6th February 1954. The nuptials were
blessedbyHisGracetheMostRev. Louis Mathias, Archbishop of Madras-Mylapore and in the sanctuary, besides several priests, there were present the Bishop Auxiliary of Madras-Mylapore,Rt. Rev. Francis Arthur Carvalho, and theBishopofCoimbatore,Rt.Rev. M. Savarimuthu. The church was tastefully decorated with arum lilies from the Nilgiris and was fullypackedwithguests.
After the signing of the marriage register, the bride and bridegroom with all the guests moved to the adjacent Parish Hall where a reception was held in honour of the wedded couple. Thehallandtheprecincts thereof were fully packed with guests. Amongst the distinguished guests were the Chief Minister and other Ministers, the Chief Justice and other High Court Judges, the Mayor of Madras, the Archbishop of Mylapore, Madras, the AuxiliaryBishopandtheBishopof Coimbatore, Secretaries to Government and Consul General of Pondicherry. The preliminary toast was proposed by His Grace,
the Archbishop of MadrasMylapore, who announced that His Holiness the Pope had just sent by cable His Apostolic Blessingtotheyoungcouple. The ChiefMinister,whowasdelayedin coming over owing to his other engagements, then proposed the main toast of the couple in felicitous terms. Mr. J.M. Lobo Prabhu, I.C.S., then replied suitably.
After the reception all the close friends and relations were treated to a buffet supper. Prior to the supper, the floor of the Hall was cleared for dancing to the music providedbyaspecialband.
The young couple were the recipients of numerous presents and greetings including messages from overseas and one from the Neutral Nations Repatriation CommitteeinKorea.
The bridegroom was till 25th January 1954 the Secretary of the Neutral Nations Repatriation Committee in Korea. He has now been appointed Vice-Consul for IndiainNewYork.
A little digression:The Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission (NNRC)wasaninternationalbody established after the Korean War Armistice to handle the issue of PrisonersofWarwhodidnotwant toreturntotheirhomelands(for example,ChineseandKoreanPOWs didnotwanttoreturntocommunist control).The Commission, chaired by India, and including representatives from Czechoslovakia, Poland, Sweden, andSwitzerland,oversawa90-day periodwherethesenon-repatriated POWs were to be persuaded to returntotheircountriesoforigin.If thisfailed,thePOWsweretobe givencivilianstatusandsenttoa third nation under India's supervision .
Shortly after their marriage, Rose accompanied her husband to his postingasViceConsul,NewYork. It
wasduringthispostingthatthefirst Indian Tourist Office was opened in New York. That was an era in American history when the word ‘Indianʼ had just one meaning – a native American Indian. Eric recalls thatmost casual enquiries at the Indian Tourist Office were about feather headwear, bead necklaces andbuffalohidegarments!
Following their New York assignment, Eric and Rose spent some years in Delhi, where my own parentsalsohappenedtobeposted in the late 1950s and early 1960s. They formed a part of a fledgling Mangalorean community in the national capital. Sadly, photographywasrareinthosedays –andthereappearstobenopicture ofmyparentswiththeircousinsEric andRose.
ForthenextthreedecadesRoseand Eric were posted all around the world. Theywere in Rangoonin the early 1960s – and Alan Nazareth, who held a junior position in the Indian embassy at Rangoon at the sametime,hasvividmemoriesofthe wayErichandledadiplomaticcrisis.
They were posted in Washington (1972-75),EricbeingDeputyChiefof Mission – then in Tokyo (1975-78), EricbeingpromotedasAmbassador, andafteranotherspellinDelhi,their finalIFS posting wasatBrussels, Eric being Ambassador to the European EconomicCommunity. Following Ericʼs retirement, they made their home in Delhi, both playing an active role in various public activities. They also purchased a home in Bangalore, where most of their relatives and friends were based, and spent several months each year in both cities.
For over a decade from the turn of the millennium, Rose and Eric were one of three celebrated Catholic couples of the national capital. The other two were Maisie & Felix Sequeira and Cynthia & Joachim DʼCruz.
They were connected. Maisie Sequeira (nee Alvares) was Roseʼs first cousin, their mothers being sisters. Cynthia DʼCruz (nee Fernandes) was a niece of Felix Sequeira.
Maisie and Felix were married in Bombay on 20 March 1952. They spent the first four years of their marriedlifeinIndonesiaandthenext four in the US. They returned to India in 1960 and were since based in Delhi, Felix being employed with the Ministry of External Affairs and Labour. They celebrated their diamond wedding on 20 March 2012. Felix died in December 2014 aged98.
Incidentally, another niece of Felix Sequeira was Fay Fereira (19402021)–whomarriedMichaelFereira, formerWorldBilliardsChampion.
CynthiaandJoachimweremarriedin Bombayon28Feb1954(inthesame month as Rose and Eric, who were married in Madras). They settled in Delhiin1957. Cynthiawasateacher; JoachimretiredasEngineer-in-Chief, Delhi Jal Board, and was then appointed by Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi to head the Clean-upGanges project. They celebrated their diamond wedding on 28 Feb 2014. Cynthiadiedayearlater.
home.
Unfortunately,Ihavenophotograph of Eric and Rose as a young couple. Picture 2 – attached – may have been taken when their diamondweddingin2014,butmore probablyacoupleofyearslater.
Picture 3 was taken on their 68th wedding anniversary on 6 February 2022, with Ericʼs IFS colleagueAlanNazarethandhiswife Isobel.
On 6 February 2025, Rose & Eric celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary.
Eric and Rose had 4 children –Maryann, Peter, Anthony and Christine. Maryann, despite having been stricken with polio as a child, graduated in medicine, and had a distinguished career as a radiotherapist at the Tata Cancer ResearchInstitute,Bombay.
EricandRoseeventuallydecidedto make Bangalore theirpermanent
Dear readers, I will conclude by reproducing a condolence message from Eric Gonsalvesʼs IFS colleague AlanNazareth.
-Dr.MichaelLobo,Bijai,Camelot
Verydear&esteemedEric,
Isobel&Iaregreatlysaddenedto learnofRose'sdemiseyesterday. Shewasgreatlylovednotonlyby Isobel,me&mychildrenbutby allIFScolleagueswhoservedwith youatyourmanypostsinvarious partsoftheworld.
ForIsobel&me,Rose’s&your innumerablekindnessestousin Rangoon,wherewehadarrived asanewlymarriedcouplefrom theEmbassyofIndia,Tokyo,in earlyAugust1963willalwaysbe anindeliblememory&adeep debtofgratitude.
Wewerefortunatethatyouboth moved from New Delhi to
Bangaloreafewyearsafterwe returnedhereonmyretirement in1994.Thisprovideduswiththe joyful privilege of continuing contactwithbothofyouinour respectivehomes.
AphototakenatBangaloreClub on your/ Rose’s 68th wedding anniversary celebration is attached.
Rose is now undoubtedly in a muchhappierplacethananyof us.Wehope&praywewillall meetthereagainbeforelong. Muchlove&deeplysharingyour sorrow.
Alan&Isobel
Ana “Angela” Joaquina Rebello aged
Camões and Churchill
PhilomenaLawrence GilbertA.Lawrence
Luís Vaz de Camões (1524-80) and Winston Spencer Churchill (WSC 1874-1965).
(FromLastweek)
