Derek was born on 29 March 1945, the eldest of nine children of Stanislaus Lobo and Cecilia nee Peres of Nandigudda Road, Attavar, Mangalore. Stany Lobo, who descends from various prominent families of 19th century Mangalore, wasan illustrious member of the Mangalorean community of his time. Byprofessionacoffeeplanter, he was one of the founders of the Planters' Guild, Chickmagalur. He was a Municipal Councillor for over 15 years, during which time he served as Chairman of various committees. He was also an executive-committee member of various Catholic bodies such as the Catholic Association of South Kanara, the Cheshire Home, and the Kanara Catholic Educational Co-Op. Society. of which he was Director. His wife Cecilia was also a memberoftheMangaloreMunicipal CouncilandlatertheMangaloreCity Corporation for 16 years. She was the first lady trustee for the Mangalore Port Trust and the first Lady President of the Christian Planter'sGuild.Shewasalsoactively involved in several other organizations.
Derek opted for a career in medicine. After completing his MBBS fromKasturba Medical College, Mangalore, in 1968, he initiallyjoinedFrMuller’sHospitalas MedicalOfficerintheSkin&Leprosy Department. He decided to specialize in this area – and in 1972 proceededtoAddisAbaba,Ethiopia, as Skin Specialist at the All-Africa Leprosy Rehabilitation and Training Centre.
FromAddisAbaba,Derekmovedon to Europe,working for some years with Emmaus-Switzerland and the Jesman Leprosy Relief Association, Germany. Returning to India, he took over as Director of the Damien LeprosyCentre,Dhanbad,Bihar(now inJharkhand). Duringthisperiod,he alsoansweredanexaminationofthe School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, securing the First Rank andtheWarringtonYorkeMedal.
In 1984 Derek assumed charge as Director, Gremaltes Hospital for Leprosy and Tuberculosis, Madras, a post he held for a decade till 1994. He then joined theWorld Health Organization and worked in Bangladesh, where he had the
distinction of officially declaring leprosy eradicated in 1998. He returned to India early in the new millennium andeventually retired in 2006asRegionalAdvisorforLeprosy & other diseases targeted for Elimination/Eradication, World HealthOrganisation,South-EastAsia RegionalOffice,NewDelhi.
In 1970, two years after his graduation as a doctor, Derek had married Patricia ‘Patsy’ Gomes. A teacher by profession she was involvedinvarioussocialandcultural activities throughout her husband’s postings. They had two children –ManojandSanchita.
Following Derek’s retirement, the couple settled in Derek’s ancestral homeatAttavar,Mangalore–oneof the stately homes of Mangalore, built by his great-grandfather LawrenceLobo,alawyer,in1892.
Twoyearsafterhisretirement,Derek was conferred with the Eminent Alumnus Award of St Aloysius College, as well as the RACHANA “ProfessionaloftheYear”Award.
Mangalore, Derek and Patsy have been largely instrumental in rejuvenating the century-old “Catholic Association of South Kanara”. Derek was President of CASK for two terms and Patsy was for many years editor of its monthly organ Mangalore. Together they organized a befitting celebration of theCASKcentenaryin2014.
Derek was a much sought-after toastmaster at various ceremonial functions, including weddings and funerals. Hewasrequestedtoraise the eulogy at the funeral of Joe Gonsalves,whodiedinOctober2021 just a couple of months short of his 100th birthday. Both Joe Gonsalves and Derek had been on this forum sinceitsinceptioninMarch2018.
AlmosttilltheendJoeGonsalveshad led an active life, even to the extent of assuming the duties of a traffic wardenonbusystreets.
At his funeral, Derek remarked that GoddesiredtheservicesofUncleJoe to direct the overflow of traffic into the gates of heaven, resulting from theCOVIDpandemic.
Eversincetheirpermanentreturnto
Since his retirement, Derek has also been on the Governing Board of Fr Muller’s Charitable Institutions –and In March this year, released a book he had authored, entitled “Heroes and Heroines of 20th centuryleprosyworkinIndia”.
More recently – in June or July – Dr Derek brought out an autobiography entitled “Happy Accidents and Lucky Incidents”. This was around the timethatIsenta posttothisforum entitled “Gentlemen of Letters”. I had not known about Derek’s autobiography, otherwise his name wouldcertainlyhavebeenincluded:
The aspirations and goals of an overwhelming majority of medical graduates in India or perhaps any other country is do post-graduation in an attractive specialty which offers them a high-profile job in a Corporate hospital or a Medical College, results in a flourishing private practice and absorbs them in the league of millionaires and
billionairesinoneortwodecades. Dr Derek Lobo was an exception. He accidentally started his first job in the Skin & Leprosy Unit of Fr Muller Hospital in February 1970, in his hometownMangalore in India and then accidentally or intentionally continued as a Specialist in Leprosy or Leprology. He committedhimselftoEliminating Leprosy as a Public Health problem as well as fighting the stigma against the disease and passionately worked towards achievingthisdualgoal.
Destiny chose him or more correctly he opted to work in socalled 'God Forsaken' places like Ethiopia, Bihar (India) and in Bangladesh. Destiny and his efforts and commitment to the cause of leprosy resulted in the World Health Organization (WHO) absorbing him in 1994 and posting him in Bangladesh. Thanks to his subtle leadership and ability to effectively function within a Team, Dr. Lobo helped Bangladeshtoachievethegoalof Elimination of leprosy as a Public Health Problem in 1998. From
November 2001 to March 2007, he was based at the WHO Regional Office for South-East Asia (SEARO) as the Regional AdviserforLeprosy,Filariasis,Soil TransmittedHelminthsandYaws. He made frequent visits to ten countries ofthe region and made significant but generally invisible or silent contributions to the Elimination of Leprosy, Filariasis and Yaws in the South-East Asia Region, without seekingpersonal credit.
The book "Happy Accidents & LuckyIncidents -TheStoryofMy Life" is an absorbing narration of the Life and Journey of Dr Derek Lobo. It has several true stories with inspiring messages both personal and professional. From growing up in small town of Mangalore, to finding the love of his life and bringing up his two children, the book will leave you feelinginspired.Youwillfindthat Dr.Lobo"WalkedtheTalk"onall aspectsofleprosyandcommitted tolivingalifethatwassimpleand honest, enriching and in selfless service to his community. The book will interest and inspire a
wide spectrum of readersmedical and health professionals, students who wish take an unchartedroad,parentswhowish to encourage their children to take up unusual professions or become activists for a cause, teachers who wish to instill in their students a love for professions which promote social or community impact or encourage social entrepreneurship. The Book is dedicated to his wife Patsy Lobo, who wholeheartedly supported her husband's work and activism forthecauseofleprosyandother poverty-related diseases and functioned as the pillar and anchorofthefamily.
Attached is a picture of the front coverofthebook.
Also attached are some news items from the community magazines “Mangalore” and “The Konkan in Delhi”. Maxwell Pereira, an IPS officer who retired as Joint CommissionerofPolice,NewDelhi–and who edited “The Konkan in Delhi”– isonthisforum.
From the archives of the community magazine ‘Mangalore’
Wedding:Lobo-Gomes:February 1970
The marriage of Dr. Derek Lobo, M.B.B.S., eldest son of Mr. S.L. Lobo and Mrs. Cecilia Lobo, Municipal Councillors, Mangalore, with Miss Patricia Gomes, B.A., B.Ed., youngest daughter of Mr. Patrick Gomes and Mrs. Stella Gomes of Bandra, took place in Bombay on 1st February. Each of them was led by their respectiveparentstothealtar. Itwas a moving sight to see the bride, in typically Indian attire, led by her agedailingfatheruptothealtarrails despitehispoorstateofhealth.
the homily at a concelebrated Mass with "people's participation" in Indianstyle. Theconcelebrantswere VeryRev.Mgr.Lawrence,O.F.M.Cap. of Agra, Rev. Fr. Aloysius Lobo, S.J., Rev. Fr. Oswald Mascarenhas, S.J., and two priest brothers, Rev. Fr. Severine Rasquinha and Rev. Fr. Lawrence Rasquinha, S.J., - all Mangaloreans; and there was one more Mangalorean, Rev. Fr. Peter ViegasofBelgaumDiocese,whowas alsopresent.
Bishop Winnibald Menezes officiated at the nuptials at St. Theresa's Church, Bandra, and gave
After nuptials, the bridal couple lit thesomaiandthedeepas , thebride offeredkumkumandthegroomtied the mangalasutra . They then exchangedsilkcocoongarlands. The "prayer of the faithful" was said by Mrs.LoboandMrs.Gomesinturnfor their daughter-in-law and son-inlaw, and the couple followed in appropriate words to ray for each other. The artior gifts were then offered to the chief celebrant in the formofatrayfuloffruits,flowersand burning agarbathis , by the couple, and Mr. & Mrs. Lobo, and Mrs. Gomes,eachofferedtheciboriumof hosts, the patron, and chalice and the cruet of wine and water. The "kiss of peace" was passed on from
prieststothe couple,andfromeach of them to their parents-in-law, by the clasp of both hands in eastern fashion. After Communion, the thanksgiving prayer was said by Mr. Lobo, mentioning everyone who tookaladingpartintheceremony.
The highlight of the ceremony was thesonorousHindihymnsbyachoir sittingonthefloorledbyMissVilma Colaco, B.A., a cousin of both the bride and groom, to the accompanimentoftheviolin(played by Rev. Sr. Maria Rosa, A.C.), the harmonium, sitar and the tabla, and voices of friends and pupils of the bridefromCarmelConvent,Bandra.
The reception at the Catholic Gymkhana was largely attended. Thecouplearrivedinacardecorated innaturalflowersandthesign"Om" and went round the gala grounds withthe spotlightfocussedonthem and the horn trumpet (komb) blowing. The guests were received byabevyofprettygirls,whooffered kumkumand favours of flowers and sprinkled rosewater. Dr. Stany Patrao, the leading Mangalorean Surgeon, proposed the toast in his usualhumorousveinandthegroom repliedinexcellentmanner.
May1972:FarewellPartytoDr DerekLobo
Dr. Derek Lobo, Skin Specialist, and eldest son of Mr. & Mrs. S.L. Lobo, Municipal Councillors, who was till now employed as Medical Officer in St. Joseph's (Fr. Muller's) Leprosy Hospital, Kankanady, Mangalore, wasentertainedatafarewellpartyby the Mangalore Junior Chamber on April 20, prior to his departure to Addis Ababa, capital of Ethiopia, in one of whose hospitals he has been appointedasSkinSpecialist.
March1974
Now on a short visit to India, Dr. DerekLobo,sonofMrs.CeciliaLobo, Municipal Councillor, and Mr. S.L. Lobo, former Municipal Councillor, was the Chief Guest at the 71st ClinicalMeetingoftheSouthKanara Homoeopathic Association. Dr. Lobo is one of the principal physicians at the prestigious All Africa Leprosy and Rehabilitation Training Centre, Ethiopia. His talk revealed some interesting facts and figures about leprosy. Only 25% of leprosycasesareinfective,andthese in turn are capable of infecting only
20% of the population. Congenital leprosy is a myth, while, thanks to modern drugs and surgical techniques,manydeformitiesarising from leprosy are not capable of being corrected. Dr.Lobo said that B.C.G. vaccine gives partial immuniFromtytoleprosywhilethere is also an encouraging response from a vaccine based on the vole bacillus. Dr. V.T. D'Souza presided, whileDr.E.J.Vazproposedavoteof thanks.
August1977
Two new additions to Fr. Muller's Hospital, Dr. Derek Lobo, MBBS, on deputationfromtheJesmanLeprosy Relief Association, Germany, for 2 years, and Dr. Jerome Pinto, MBBS, DVD, have joined the St. Joseph LeprosySection.
January1979
Dr. (Sister) Immaculata, Medical Administrator, and Dr. Derek Lobo, Leprologist, both of Fr. Muller's Hospital, have proceeded to Mexico to attend the XI International Congress on Leprosy. Dr. Lobo has been deputed by the German Leprosy Relief Organization. He will present a paper on "Disabilities, Displacement and Role of
ReconstructiveSurgeryinLeprosy".
November1981
Dr. Derek Lobo, an eminent leprologist, and Director of the Hospital services and the Training Centre of the DSWC said recently at the openingof the Nirmala Hospital that Dhanbad has the distinction of not only being the nerve centre of coal, coking steel, refractory, coke and fertilizer industries, but also the centre of the world's most terrifying hyper-endemic leprosy. Dr. Lobo denied categorically the mistaken impressioneveninofficialcirclesthat the Damiens were bent on conversion. "We only want to convert these unfortunate people, ostracised by their society, to be able-bodied, good citizens of the country", he said. (The Economic Times).
March1983
Dr.DerekLobohassecuredtheFirst Rank with a Gold Medal in the DTM & H Examination of the School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool. He is theDirectorDamienLeprosyCentre, Dhanbad.
On a personal note, I may add that though Derek and I did not belong
to the same Lobo family, we were doubly connected through marriagesofancestors.
My great-grandfather Joseph Lobo Prabhu – in whose ancestral home I still reside – was married to Joanna, eldest sister of Derek’s greatgrandfather Lawrence Lobo Shenoy, in whose ancestral home Derek and Patsylived.
And Lawrence Lobo’s wife Christine wastheyoungestsisterofanotherof my great-grandfathers, Anthony Peter Lobo, father of my paternal grandmotherLily.
AnthonyandChristinewerechildren of Lawrence Lobo Prabhu, donor of the site of St Aloysius College, Mangalore.
Derek thus has the distinction of being a descendant of both Lawrence Lobo Prabhu (1805-1883) and his son-in-law Lawrence Lobo Shenoy (1854-1894). The former was a judge and the latter a
lawyer. Perhaps it was destiny that their (great) great-grandson opted for medicine and became a leprologistofinternationalrenown.
Iwillconcludewithanattachmentof the sympathy card sent to me by Derek and Patsy, when I lost my brotherPatrickinAugust2023.
MichaelLobo
(FromDr.MichaelLoboʼsForum)
Reclaim the Constitution!
-*Fr.CedricPrakashSJ
On 26 November, the nation will once again observe ‘Constitution Day’! There will be the usual plethoraof speeches (ad nauseam!) of ‘howimportanttheConstitution isforallofus’ , ‘whyitisimportant to safeguardit’,thefactthatwe havethebestConstitutionamong allnationsinworld’etc. All empty, hypocritical platitudes by those in power:theywillsurelywaxeloquent on the ‘Constitution’! Nobody believesthembecausetheyarehellbent on destroying the sanctity, rights and freedoms which the Constitutionembodies.
From2014,theConstitutionofIndia has come under meticulousassault. There are several Constitutional
matters that have come up in the SupremeCourt,atleastforhearing, in the recent past. There is the case ofUmarKhalidandotherswhowere protesting the Citizenship Amendment Act. Umar has been languishinginjailformorethanfive years now. His bail application was rejected for no reason by the lower Courts.Whenitcameupforhearing in September, his plea was adjournedforaweeksince“thefiles cameinlate!”.Thenthereisthe
take a call on the constitutional validity on the slew of anticonversion laws passed by several BJP –ruled states (including Rajasthan;theoneinMaharashtrais in the offing). The Constitutionality of the Waqf (Amendment) Act,
2025, is still in abeyance; the Apex Court has already said that some clausesoftheAmendedActneedto be struck down. The fraudulent Bihar Elections are over; there were several challenges to the Election Commission of India’s Special
Intensive Revision (SIR) of the Bihar electoral rolls and of the SIR being conductedinmanyotherStatesjust now – but nothing seems to be happening!
The very fact that such matters are coming up in the Apex Court is a matter of serious concern. Thereis somethingrotten! India is on the brink! There are fascist, fundamentalist and fanatical forces at work, determined to take the country back to the ‘dark ages’ of history. At stake are, India's pluralism, diversity and democratic ethos! ‘Good governance’ is pathetically lacking! Article 19 (which guarantees freedom of speech and expression), Article 21 (the right to life and liberty) Article 25 (which guarantees freedom to preach, practise and propagate one’s religion), for that matter all fundamentalrights-areconsistently denied to citizens. At the receiving endarethepoorandthevulnerable, themarginalisedandtheminorities, the excluded and the exploited, the Adivasis, the Dalits and the OBCs; the small farmers, the casual workers and migrant workers; women and children; the differently-abled and other
sexually-oriented persons; human rights defenders, journalists and all those who take a visible and vocal stand to protect and promote the idea of a democratic, pluralistic, inclusiveandsecularIndia!
The ruling regime clearly has a ‘method in their madness’. There is a serious lack of political will to address systemic burning issues which have gripped the nation. Therearehurried,biasedlegislation and prejudiced policies (all designed to decimate the Constitution) which include the National Education Policy, the Citizenship Amendment Act, the anti - conversion laws, the antifarmer laws, the four anti-worker and pro-corporate labour codes whichafteralonglullhavesuddenly become ‘implementable, the Universal Civil Code, the ‘One Nation, One Election’, the Waqf Bill, the Imposition of Hindi as the national language, the delimitation plan, the delisting of tribals /Adivasis who have accepted Christianity or Islam. Constitutional bodiesliketheElectionCommission (which is blatantly biased) the Enforcement Directorate, the Central Bureau of Investigation, the
National Investigation Agency (NIA), the police and even sections of the judiciary (the new CJI does not have an impressive track –record)arecompromised;theyhave become‘CagedParrots’.Corruption has become the new normal, with this regime! First, it was demonetization; then, the scam of the Electoral Bonds. The rich becomericherandthepoor,poorer!
In the light of the systematic and frequent attacks on the Constitution, it is imperative to revisit post- independent India and be inspired by the vision and commitmenttotheidea of India by the Constituent Assembly. On 26 November 1949,wethepeopleof India,gave to ourselves a path breaking Constitution; thanks to all the members of our Constituent Assembly, eminent women and men, from every section of India’s society,ledbythevisionarystalwart, and regarded as the father of our Constitution,Dr.B.R.Ambedkar!
A day earlier, the eve of the adoption of the Constitution (25 November 1949), Dr. Ambedkar gave a long but very passionate speech to the Constituent Assembly. His speech set the vision
and the spirit of what the new
Constitution should be for the people of India. Ambedkar said, “If wewishtomaintaindemocracynot merelyinform,butalsoinfact,what mustwedo?Thefirstthinginmy judgementwemustdoistohold fast to constitutional methods of achievingoursocialandeconomic objectives…. where constitutional methodsareopen,therecanbeno justificationfor(..)unconstitutional methods. These methods are nothing but the Grammar of Anarchyandthesoonertheyare abandoned,thebetterforus.The second thing we must do is to observe the caution which John StuartMillhasgiventoallwhoare interested in the maintenance of democracy,namely,not“tolaytheir libertiesatthefeetofevenagreat man,ortotrusthimwithpower whichenablehimtosubverttheir institutions in politics, Bhakti or hero-worship is a sure road to
degradation and to eventual dictatorship.The third thing we mustdoisnottobecontentwith merepoliticaldemocracy.Wemust make our political democracy a socialdemocracyaswell.Political democracycannotlastunlessthere lies at the base of it, social democracy”.
Ambedkar’s final words in that epochal speech, sums up his views on the measure of responsibility owed to preserve the idea of India, asenvisionedintheConstitution. “If wewishtopreservetheConstitution inwhichwehavesoughttoenshrine theprincipleofGovernmentofthe people,forthepeopleandbythe people,letusresolvenottobetardy intherecognitionoftheevilsthatlie acrossourpathandwhichinduce peopletopreferGovernmentfor thepeopletoGovernmentbythe people, nor to be weak in our initiativetoremovethem.Thatisthe onlywaytoservethecountry.I knowofnobetter.”
It looks as though, thevisionary he was, Ambedkar was visioning and speaking of India 2025, when the Constitution is truly at stake! The Constitution guarantees fundamental rights (rooted in the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948) to every single citizen of India; they are based on the four non-negotiable pillars ofjustice, liberty, equality and fraternity. These fundamentals whichareenshrinedinthePreamble with the pledgetoconstitute India into a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular and Democratic Republic;wheredignity, unity and integrityare paramount. Thepromotion and the protection of human rights for all and the respect for pluralism and diversity, issine qua nonfor good governance. Sadly, in the past few years we have witnessed the systematic erosion and the destruction of human rights, by thoseinpower.
On 28 January 2025, the respected Calcutta daily ‘The Telegraph’ carried an article entitled ‘Rub your eyes: HinduRashtraConstitution to be unveiled at Mahakumbh on Basant Panchami’. The seemingly innocuous inside-page article speaks volumes not only of the insidiousyetmeticulousplanswhich are being made, but also of the calculated attempts to destroy the secular character of the nation and
ultimately the sanctity of the ConstitutionofIndia.Thenewsitem highlights that a 501-page document, prepared by a 25member committee of scholars, draws inspiration from the Ramayana, the rules and teachings of Krishna, Manusmriti and Chanakya’s Arthashastra. The socalled ‘Constitution’ based on the Hindutva ideology, is expected to be unveiled at the Mahakumbh on Sunday2FebruarywhentheHindus celebrate ‘Basant Panchami’. Whether it will take place is anyone’s guess; the painful fact, however, is that no one from the ruling regime, who swear by the Constitutionofthecountry,hashad thecouragetosaythatverythought of propagating suchan idea should be regarded as anti-national! The proponents of such an idea are totally against all the values enshrined in the Constitution and what the country has consistently radiated since her independence in 1947!
The committee which has put together this Constitution is known as the ‘Hindu Rashtra Samvidhan Nirmal Samiti’ and apparently consists of so-called scholars of the
‘Sanatan Dharma.’ Swami Anand Swaroop Maharaj, patron of the committee, told reporters at the Mahakumbh, that their target was to make India a Hindu nation by 2035. (their original plan was to make India a Hindutva- nation this year2025–thecentenaryyearofthe RSS-buttheirplansfailedmiserably when they did not get the required numbers in the last Parliamentary elections- to make any undemocratic Constitutional changes). That is why everyeffort is made to rob the elections(#VoteChori) and buy the electorate (#VoteKhareedi), as the entire nation has witnessed in the fraudulentBiharelections. We must honestly admit that the Constitution is at stake; therefore, wemustalldoourbit:
• to protect the Constitution and to promote the values and the rights enshrinedinit.
• to study the Constitution: developing an ownership of it in letterandspirit.
• to participate actively and conscientiously, in the democratic process.
• toorganisein-depthtrainingin
socialanalysisandadvocacy.
• tocreateanawarenessofimportant aspects of the Constitution in all institutions.
• tomakesurethatallofficialpolicies / legislation which are draconian anti- people, anti- poor and antiConstitutional which go against the democratic and pluralistic fabric of the country be rescinded immediatelyandunconditionally.
• toensurethatalleligiblevotersare on the electoral rolls and exercise their franchise for democratic, secularparties/individuals.
• to organise/participate in rallies/ public programmes/ demonstrations/campaigns in support of the human rights/fundamental rights of all citizens
• to participate in initiatives of civil society groups/organisations in defenseofthecommonperson
There are several groups and individuals who are doing plenty all over the country on the above. Thereisnodoubtaboutthat! Vinay Kumar from Bangalore, is one such person. Professionally, he is an aerospace engineer. He is also an
activist who focuses on an initiative which he launched, with several others some time ago. It is called ‘Reclaim Constitution’ (www.reclaimconstitution.in) propagatingthemessageandideas of the Constitution and making a systematic effort to address the prevalent ignorance about it. This year (on 26 November), they have organised a National Quiz on the Constitutioninwhich1500students (500teams)from200schoolsacross 20statesand5UnionTerritorieswill beparticipating,
In an interview to ‘Frontline’ magazine (29 March 2024) Vinay said,“IthinktheConstitutionispart ofourexistenceonthisland;itplays animportantroleindefiningwho weareasapeopleandhowwelive, orhowweaspiretoliveasasociety. Confusionisthereinourlivesevery day.Butit’ssomatteroffactthat we’vetakenitforgranted.Today, it’slargelyseenassomethingofa documentthatbelongstolawyers, judges, the government, bureaucracy, and those kinds of people.Butweneednotdelvetoo deep into understanding the Constitution to realise that this notionisfalse.Ifyoulookatthevery
firstthreewordsofourConstitution, itsays‘WethepeopleofIndia’.So theConstitutionwasmadebyus, the people. And the Preamble, which I regard like most other scholars do, as the soul of this Constitution,endswiththelines‘we givetoourselves,thisConstitution’. SonowhereinthePreambleofthe ConstitutionofIndiawouldyoufind mentionofagovernment,political party,oreventhejudiciaryoranyof thosepillarsofdemocracy,right?It is a people’s constitution. It’s a people’sdocumentaswell,madeby peoplelikeyouandme.Ifyoulook atthebackgroundofthepeople whomadethisConstitution,afteran arduous freedom struggle that stretched over centuries, and generations of people who sacrificedtheirlivesforthepeople tobeabletomakethisConstitution, yourealisethatthisisascloseto eachoneofusasit’sjustpeople fromvariouswalksoflifewhocame intobuildthisconstitution.” Plenty to learn indeed from this defender oftheConstitution.
As we observe ‘Constitution Day 2025’, we must all pledge to fight
the fascist, fundamental fanatic forces who are destroying the sanctityofourConstitution.Wecan no longer sit in our comfort zones; “We,thePeopleofIndia”,must rise as one people, and ‘reclaim the Constitution.’ The Constitution belongs to us! In the words of Ambedkar “we are determined to defenditwiththelastdropofour blood”! 25November2025 eveof ConstitutionDay2025
*(Fr. Cedric Prakash SJ is a human rights, reconciliation and peace activist & writer.
Contact: cedricprakash@gmail.com )
ForallVeezissuesoldandnew,clickthislinktoread:
Model Bank Mumbai
Now a Scheduled Bank
Its root – the Mangalorean Catholic Co-operative Credit Society Ltd., Mumbaiestablishedin1916. Though Model Bank’sroots are 100 years strong, the bank is just 27 yearsyoung.
Having25Branchesand8ATMsthe total turnover of this urban cooperative bank exceeded Rs.1900 croresin2024-25.
Model Bank attained Scheduled BankStatus:
In recognition of its significant contribution, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has accorded Scheduled Bank status to Model Co-operative Bank Ltd, which has been serving the community for decades. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has
included Model Bank in the second schedule of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, thereby granting it the prestigious status of a ‘Scheduled Bank.’ As per section 42(6)(a)oftheRBIAct,1934,theRBI issued a Gazette Notification on October 20, 2025, announcing the inclusion of Model Co-operative BankLtdinthesecondscheduleand elevating it to Scheduled Bank (ListedScheduledBank)status. It is the dream come true to the present Managing Committee seeing the Bank at elevated status asScheduledBank.
WhatisaScheduledBank?
A Scheduled Bank is included inScheduleIIoftheReserveBankof India(RBI)Act,1934.Toqualifyasa
scheduled bank, a bank must have fulfilled the prescribed paid-up capitalandmeetothercriteriaofthe RBI.BankswithScheduledstatusare eligible for low-interest loans from the RBI, have access to the clearing house network, and must maintain aCashReserveRatio(CRR)withthe central bank. Scheduled Banks are morestableduetotheircompliance with RBI norms. Inclusion in Schedule II increases public confidence in the bank’s financialhealth.
Now attaining Scheduled status, the bank can be expanded, and branches can be opened in other places of Maharashtra and in Gujarat and Karnataka, more importantly in Mangalore, Udupi, Bangalore and other cities where Mangalorean Konkani Catholic populationisconcentrated.Thereby provide employment opportunities to community’s younger generation.
Types of Scheduled Banks in India:
Scheduled Banks in India are categorized into different types based on ownership and
operations. Mainly they are:
1) Scheduled Commercial Public Sector Banks – These include banks where the government holds a majority stake.
2) Scheduled Commercial Private Sector Banks – Further divided into:
Old Private Sector Banks, New Private Sector Banks
3) Scheduled Foreign Banks –Foreign-owned banks operating in India.
4)ScheduledCo-operativeBanks.
Model Bank was a Society and convertedasaBank:
Mangalorean Catholics are very enterprising people. Mangaloreans who migrated to Mumbai in the laterpartof19th centuryandinearly 20th century, set up Clubs (Kudams) alloverBombay,particularlyatFort, Dhobitalao, Byculla, Andheri etc., providing bachelor accommodation. In 1905, educated among them founded Kanara Catholic Association (KCA) – as a registered body. At that time, Francis Antony Cyril Rebello (Kallianpur Tonse origin), who held the post of Accountant General of India was a great figure among Mangalorean Konkani Catholics. Under his leadership, in 1916, to inculcatethehabitofthrift&credit, KCA registered a Credit Society by name “Mangalorean Catholic CooperativeCreditSocietyLtd”.
In1993, MangaloreanCatholic Co-op. Credit Society had total capital of around Rs.1 Lac. It was almost in dormant state without manyactivities. Mangaloreanswho were aware of the enthusiasm of Co-operative Banks giant John DSilva, under whose leadership 3 urban co-operative banks in Mumbaiwereestablished,formeda
committee of likeminded Mangalorean Konkani Catholic leaders. They requested Mr. D’Silva to take leadership of the Society as amarkofrespecttothememoryof Stalwarts who had founded the society in 1916 and make it a bank forthebenefitofthecommunity.
During 1990s, Reserve Bank of India had revised the rules for registering new co-operative banks, particularly paid-up capital and deposits. Mr. D’Silva accepted the request of the Committee consisting of Albert W. D’Souza, the leading entrepreneur, and others. At the General Body Meeting of the society held in October 1993, the members unanimously elected Mr. DSilva as its President with full charge of the Society. To make it easy to raise required capital of Rs.60 Lacs, the then limit of RBI to start an Urban Co-operative Bank, almost ten branchesalloverMumbaihadbeen opened.
InJune1998,theReserveBank of India and the Registrar of cooperativesocietiesgaveitsapproval forthebank. InDecember1998,the name was changed officially to
“ModelCo-operativeBankLtd.’. Itis a fact that Model Bank was the second Bank among the newly registered banks, which started functioningwithbranchesofsociety all over Mumbai and converted themintobank’sbranches.
Mr. D’Silva was the President of the Society from 1993 to 1998 and on the establishment of the Bank as the Founder Chairman till 2004. Albert W. D’Souza was the Founder Vice – Chairman. Thereafter Mr. D’Souza is the ChairmanoftheBank(For21years) tillthisdate.
Factors contributing to the progressofModelBank:
Office-bearers and Directors are prominent leaders in their respective fields like business or profession.Theyhavebeenselected unanimously to the shareholders. Fewofficialswithworkexperiencein Nationalized / Private banks and reputed establishments are in the service of Model Bank at the top level.
Capital Adequacy Ratio maintained by the Bank is 15.82% whereas required ratio is 12%. NPA (NonPerformingAssets)RateisNil.These indicators reflect the strong financial health of the bank. For the year 2024-25, profit after tax is Rs 7.26 Crores. Bank has declared 10% dividendforshareholders.
Bank is having various types of Accounts. Bank pays good interest for deposits. Various types of loans are available. Bank has given prominencefordigital.
Among 1,472 urban co-operative institutions in the country, Model Bank stands within the top 6%, and has received several awards at city, state, and national levels for its consistentperformance.Atthe26th Annual Ceremony of the Maharashtra State Co-operative Banks Association Ltd held 2025 July, Model Bank received the Padmabhushan Vasantdada Patil Outstanding Urban Co-operative BankAward.Maharashtra’sMinister of State for Home (Rural), Housing, Education, Co-operation, and Mining, Dr Pankaj Rajesh Bhoyar, presentedtheaward. The Bank has served as a source of employment and skill development fortheyouthofthecommunity. ManagementofModelBank:
Chairman - Albert W. D’Souza, Vice Chairman-MaximI.Pinto
Directors - William Sequeira, Vincent Mathias, CA Paul Nazareth, Abraham C. Lobo, Sanjay Shinde, ThomasD.Lobo,LawrenceD’Souza, Adv.PiusVas,GeraldCardoza,Ancy
D’Souza, Hilary L. Mendonca, Adv. Fiona M. Nazareth, Mrs. Asha S.
D’Souza,
Co-opted Directors - George Castelino,RonaldH.Mendonca, Members of Board of Management – CA Elroy Rodrigues, Jude P. Lobo, Adv.SannaA.Lobo
Type of Accounts: Savings, Basic Savings, Smartkid, Current, CorporateSalary,NRO/NRE
Type of Loans: Housing Loan / Renovation, Education, Travel, Personal / Surety, Gold Loan / Overdraft, Loan against Bank Fixed Deposit, Loan against Government Securities (NSC/KVP/LIC), Loan against Property, Lease Rental
Discounting, Asset Backed Loan / Overdraft, Overdraft, Cash Credit, Business Loans, Advance to MSME setor&Corporates
Loans to Professionals, Loans to RoadTransportOperators Services: RTGS/NEFT, Mobile Banking, Rupay Debit Cards, Tax Payment, Pan Card Application Collection, Core Banking Solution, Bancassurance, NACH, CTS, Safe DepositLockers
PrideandResponsibility:
As per Chairman of the Bank Albert W. D’Souza, achieving Scheduled Bank status brought the bank both prideandresponsibility.
Mr. D’Souza has to say this: “Model Bank has risen to the present position because of the hard work put in by the past and present Office-Bearers, Directors and membersoftheStaffwiththefullest co-operation of the Shareholders, Deposit and Account holders and Creditors.
Because of the Scheduled Status moreresponsibilityhasfallenonthe shouldersofManagement. IwishtheModelBankeverysuccess. May it prosper further to attain greaterheights.
-H. R. Alva
1925
S. L. Bhyrappa (1931-2025), who passed away on 24th September this year is a great Kannada writer andnovelist.Intheforeword(Oduva Munna)tohisbookGrihabhangahe hasmadethefollowingobservation:
“The title given to this novel is not apt. Sometimes while writing the novelorbeforewritingthenovelthe title is decided. Sometimes even aftertwoyearsoffinishingthenovel title does not flash. Finally, after lot of thinking, I asked why it should have a name; no name is required. Let it be S. L. Byrappa: Novel No. 8. Subject matter, place, person, idea, thoughts, feelings are anyway
expressed in the novel.” But because the publishers wanted a name for the novel, finally he suggested Grihabhanga. In the same way I have named this article just1925. Many things have happened this year. I am going to discuss some of them. Niranjana, another great writer in Kannada from Puttur was born on 15 June 1924. He died in 1992. His birth centenary was celebrated from 2024-2025. V J P Saldanha (Khadaap) known as the father of historical novels in Mangalorean Konkani was born on 9 June 1925. His birth centenary is being celebrated duringthe current year. He died in 2000. I have discussed the contributions of both these writers in my article in Veez issue no. 416. Therefore, I don’t discussitonceagain.
N. Narasimhaiah, the father of detective novels in Kannada was born on 18 September 1925. He died in 2011. He has written more than550novelsmostofthembeing detective(pattedaari)novels.During our high school days every student was flued to his pattedaarinovels anddetectivePurushottama.During that tender age, his detectives, Purushottama and Madhusoodana kept the night lamp burning till the bookwasfinished.
NN was born on 18 September 1925. His father, C. Nanjappa, was a folk singer and his mother was Yellamma.Hisfathercomposedand sang a Lavaani(a type of song or ballad) about the Britishers which was rewarded by the British Government by grant of land. His fatherdiedin1952whenNNwasin the fourth standard. So, he went to work in the coffee estate. Later he became a Bus conductor. He left thatjobaftersometimeandstarted working in a printing press as composer. There he developed the habit of reading books. (Here we can remember Dolphy Cassia who was working in Kodiyalbail Press). He left Chickmagalur his mother’s native place and went to Bangalore
tobecomealorryserviceemployee. Then he started his own library. He used to read detective novels of Balasaraswathi, Venkatacharya, Gururajacharya, Gundashastri etc. Once he met T. Narayana Ayyangar, publisher of the detective novels of M. Ramamurthy. NN used to read hisbookstoo.HecasuallyaskedMr. NarayanaAyyangarifhewillpublish his novels if he writes them. T. Narayana Ayyangar replied in the affirmative. NN wrote the first detective novel, Pattedaara Purushottamain 1952 introducing his brainchild detective Purushottama. Around the same time Aangelof Jo. Sa. Alvares and Tambdi Pitul of Khadaap were published. Jo. Sa. created a detective in John Lobo. NN created three detectives- Purushottama, MadhusoodanaandArinja. NN has written more than 350 detective novels (another source says 550) and more than 50 social novels. Hence, he is regarded as father of Kannada detective novels althoughheisnotthepioneer.After his detective novels became famous,publishersforced himtosit in Balepet and Cottonpet of Bangalore (Pete is now majestic
area)andwrite,finishandhandover his novels for publication. The paymentforeachnovelwasRs25in the beginning and later it went up to Rs.50 only. When he became popular,hedemanded10%revenue share. But publishers revolted and stopped publishing his books. Demandforhisbookswassomuch, they later regretted and started publishing his books once again.
Bhayankara Bhairagi , Patthedaara Purushottama , Vichitra Kolegaara , Kaamada Gombe , Sedina Sarpa , Eradu Tale Haavu , Beediya Paarivaala , Kaliyugada Panchali , Kannadiya Mundhe and several other famous titles can be cited.
BhayankaraBhairagiwas reprinted eight times and was very popular. He was so popular his fans used to write letters to him, and he used to receive 50-100 letters per day. Father of detective novels in Kannada,N,Narasimhaiahwasborn 100 years ago in 1925 and died in 2000.
Rastriya Swayam Sevak Sangh (RSS) wasfoundedonVijayaDashamiday 1 October 1925 at Nagpur. It is a semi-military organization. Its volunteers (Swayam Sevaks wear uniform, shoes, caps, hold lathi,
conduct marches, and use bands to play patriotic songs during kavayat andpathasanchalan.Initscentenary yearmarchesarebeingorganizedin every district and taluk. The High court of Karnataka had to intervene when march was not allowed in Chittapur taluk of Gulbarga. In the same way, the RSS had to fight a tough battle in Tamil Nadu as the DMK Government of Tamil Nadu had not given permission. Through such exercises it is trying to create space for its political wing, the BharatiyaJanataPartyinTamilNadu whereitspresenceisinsignificant. The Rastriya Swayam Sevak Sangh (RSS or Sangh) was born in 1925.
Keshav Hedgewar is the father of this organization and Mr. Moonje is theideologue.Golwalkar’sBunchof Thoughts is the bible of RSS. The Sangh was founded by a group of Brahmin-Marvadi gentlemen in Nagpur. In those days it was the capitalofCentralProvinceincluding the present state of Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh and parts of Maharashtra. After State reorganization on linguistic basis Nagpur became a part of Maharashtra. One session of the legislaturemeetsatNagpurevery year.
AccordingtotheBunchofThoughts there are three internal enemies of India. They are Communists, Christians and Muslims. While saying so they fully ignore the martyrdom of Abdul Hamid (IndoPakwarhero)andotherCommunist and Christian leaders for the country like Julio Rebeiro who put down Sikh militancy in Punjab. In the 1920sCommunists were a force to reckon with. There were many revolutionaries from this ideology like Bhagat Singh. The Communists fought for the rights of labour vis a vis capitalist. The RSS is a rightist, capitalist organization. It advocates
harmonious relations of labourwith employers and businessmen and strikes are not all appreciated. Communists in those days were drawing support from USSR. Christians and Muslims are considered as enemies of the country on the ground that their Punyabhoomi’s are outside Indian border.ForChristianstheirholyland isinIsrael-PalestineandthePope is based in Rome. They receive instructions from outside India. Muslims go on Haj pilgrimage to MeccaandMadinawhichisinSaudi Arabia. They owe allegiance to Khalifa.So,RSSisoftheopinionthat these groups are not loyal to India and needs to be eliminated to protectHinduRashtra.Accordingto RSS Hindu Dharm which is Sanatan should be the official religion of India. It is a militant organization too. For more information on RSS, I recommend two books: one,
Devanur Mahadeva’s RSS Aala
mattuAgala and second,Naanu
RSSYakeBitte.A third book would be NaduBaggisadayedeyadani by Mahendra Kumar and Naveen Soorinje.
Mr. Balakrishna Shivaram Moonje (1872-1948) was a follower of Balagangadhar Tilak. He was medical doctor from Grant Medical College,Bombay.Hewasworkingas medicalofficerinBombayMunicipal Corporation.AfterthedeathofTilak in 1920, he dissociated from Congress. He did not like the ideas of non-violence and secularism. He was a political mentor of Hedgewar who later founded the RSS. He was activeinHinduMahasabhaandwas the All-India President of Hindu Mahasabha from 1927 to 1937 when Veer Savarkar (V. D. Savarkar) took over from him. He attended the Round Table Conference (London) twice. In 1931 he went to ItalyandmetBenitoMussolini,ruler ofItalyinthose days.A guidedtour was arranged for him. He visited organs like Balilla, the Academia della Farnesina and other military schools and educational institutions.HevisitedItalianFascist youth wing Opera Nazionale Balilla. HepraisedmilitarizationofItalyand
theglorificationoftheartofwarvis a vis Ahimsa preached by M. K. Gandhi in India. He started the Bhosale Military School at Nashik. He was in touch with Fascist supporter Guiseppe Tucci through letters. The RSS appropriated this Model and there is uncanny similarity between the Balilla and RSS.HegaveItalianmilitaryschools and organizations as the Model for RSS. Militarization of Italy finally culminated in the second World War. Hence it has its own problems. During freedom struggle they collaborated with the British and their role in freedom struggle was one of opposition to Congress. It is alleged that they do not have any freedom fighters of their own and appropriate other Congress leaders like Sardar Patel as their leader although he had imposed a ban on RSS.
The RSS uses Hindi in its communication and wants it to become the national language. Its designations are Sangh, Shaaka, Pranth, Sarsanghsanchalak, Pracharak (full time Volunteer). Narendra Modi was a Pracharak of RSS. The headquarters of RSS is at Nagpur. Till recently they did not
hoist the national tri colour. Even now they pay more respect to the saffron Bhagwa. During the drills (Kavayats) they plant the Bhagwa and worship it. The salute is a Nazi salute and the caps they wear on their heads are imitation of Nazi. They sing Namaste Sadaa Vatsale and do not like JanaGanaMana . Earlier they used to wear Khakhi shorts but to attract modern youth they had introduced trousers as their uniform. They wear a leather beltfortheirtrousersandacrossthe chest. They wear shoes during the pathasanchalanaand play martial arts as seen from photographs and videos. The Sarsanghchalak has been in recent times allowed to addressthenation(noteaddressing the nation) on Vijaya Dashami day. Generally, nation is addressed by the Prime Minister on eve of the Independence Day and by the President of India on the eve of the RepublicDay.ThisVijayadashmiday address to the nation shows the importancegiventothembyBJP. They glorify Indian kings like Rana Pratap,Shivaji,RaniJhansiLaxmiBai and any other prince who had fought against the Muslim rulers. The fact is every Muslim leader had
Hindusinthearmy,andeveryHindu ruler had Muslims in their army. At the battle of Haldighat where Rana Pratap and Badshah Akbar fought a pitched battle, the Mughal side was led by Rajput Man Singh and the Hindu side was led by Hakim Khan Sur,theAfghan.Therefore,nobattle in India can be described as fully Muslim vs Fully Hindu. The communal forces create these stories. Akbar wanted the woody and hilly terrain of Mewar under his control to secure lines of communication with Gujarat. His intention was not to attack Hindus. If that was the case, he would not have used Rajputs in his army. At Haldighat there is a big lake. The "bloody lake" near Haldighati is calledRakht Talab, which means "lake of blood". (Nettara Kere) It is the site of the 1576 Battle of Haldighati, where many soldiers diedandthe battlefieldwasstained red with blood, giving the area its name.Today,it'samemorialgarden and not an actual lake. The author hasvisitedthisplace.
The author and his wife at the Haldighat memorial in 2021. In the background is the statue of Rana Pratap on his horse, Chetak. His
horse got wounded and fell and died while escaping from the Mughal army. At that spot this memorialhasbeencreated.
Girish Karnad in his play Rakkasa TangadisaysthattheTalikotabattle wasnot an attack by Bahamani’s on Vijayanagara. Instead, Aliya Ramaraya crossed the river Tungabhadra and entered the Bahamani territory and was defeated.ThestorycreatedbyMasti Venkatesha Ayyangar in his book Talikoti(1929) during the freedom struggle showed it as a battle betweenMuslimsandHinduswhich is far from truth because soldiers of
both religions were part of the respectivearmyasseenaboveinthe caseofHaldighati. They talk about love and harmony but do the opposite as per the intelligence reports on record and available on Internet Archive.org. It was considered as a most dangerous militant organization by the Britishers during 1925-1948. It was banned after the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. It has been banned three times by various governments. Their operations are very secret. They have many subgroups like Vishwa Hindu Pparishad,BajrangDal,manySenes, women wings, etc. with a specific mission. They have many educationalinstitutionsandcultural organizations to spread their ideology. They fund movie production to produce “patriotic” movies.
Nanaji Deshmukh (1916-2010) was a leader of Bharatiya Jan Sangh. AfterthedeathofHedgewarin1940 he joined the RSS. M. S. Golwalkar, author of BunchofThoughts , sent him as Pracharak to Gorakhpur. There he worked hard and set up 250 Sangh shakas (branches) within ashorttime.Hewasthenappointed
as Saha Pranth Pracharak. He started Vidya Bharati- the educational wing of the RSS in Gorakpurin1950.Hewasappointed managing director for Panchajanya, Rashtradharma and Swadesh newspapers in 1947. They are mouthorgansofRSS.Butthestories of upper caste Hindus killing lower caste Hindus do not find a mention although the daily newspapers report several such incidents. Such incidentsarebrushedaside,andthe unity of all Hindus is highlighted. These newspapers and educational institutions started by Nanaji continue even to this day and promote Hindu culture. Modern English medium schools like Rashtrottana Parishad schools have been set up. The highest honour Bharat Ratna was conferred on Nanajiin2014posthumously.
As announced by Sarsanghachalak on9November2025atBangaloreit is not a registered organization. It receives donations from wellwishers which is called Gurudakshina and hence is given IncomeTaxexemptionbytreatingit as a Charitable organization. Admittedly its aim is to work for reestablishment of Sanatana Rashtra
and Sanatana Dharma. The organizationin recentdaysisunder pressure to declare the source of its income and modus of its expenditure. But it is kept a secret. Even the activities have been exposed by the US media. The RSS has been completed 100 years and hasgrownstrongovertheyears.
Banking
On September 8, 1925, Catholic Bank(notMCCBank)was started in Mangalore. Geoffrey Saldanha was its Founder President. After him for 21 years Dr. Lawrence Fernandes wasitsPresident.J.MCastelinowas the Secretary. He was teaching in the College (St. Aloysius?) and later became Headmaster of Milagres School.Bothusedtoworkveryhard as a team. First branch of the bank was opened at Udupi 11 years after its beginning. Branches opened in ChickmagalurandMysorehadtobe closed.Thenbrancheswereopened in Kinnigoli, Shirva and Kundapur. Raknno (1950) article says that unless priests recommend, our peopledon’ttrustanyone.Howtrue is this even to this day! After the demiseofDrL.P.Fernandes,William MascarenhasbecamethePresident. He opened branches at Kankanady
and Bajpe. Shri P. P. Lobo was the new Secretary during his time. The Bank had Recurring Deposit and Cash certificate schemes. (Raknno 1950) It was merged with Syndicate Bank on 11 November 1961. 4.5 months before the Syndicate Bank came into existence and had more paid-up capital compared to the latter at the time of merger. Its mergerisasadstory. In 1925 Udupi Bank was started under the leadership of Keshav Prabhu. It was a bank of the Goud Saraswat Brahmins. But it stopped functioningafterafewyears.
Theyear1925sawmanyinteresting developments. But only some of them have been covered in this article.
Theyear1925sawmanyinteresting developments. But only some of them have been covered in this article.
Dr.Charles Lobo
Funeral service of Fr Swebert D'Silva SJ Rector & ProChancedllor of St Joseph's University, Bangalore.
A Divine Persona & Positive Human .....
Each human at birth is more helpless than a physically challenged person you may encounter, inneed of constant support as it grows over years of learning and acquiringessential human skills and brain development. Imagine how fortunate most people are to have gotthecareandsupportofparents and elders and become independent. There are thousands of physically handicapped people among us with different kinds, degreesandassortmentofneedsto stay alive day to day with need of support,careandmoretokeepsoul and body together-it is a virtual human life battle that goes on and on and is very often pathetic. Nothinginlifeisachance,eventhe minutest of things are GOD's deep design. Inisolated casesevenwith ashatteredbodyandtwisted limbs of all shapes, combinations and permutations possible - the mind and spirit are virtual wonders able to devise all kinds of strategies and simplyovercomedaytodayhurdles and self-motivate and maintain a prodigious development, with AI
the scope may improve; we look forward to a progressive human life sustaining action with some support and care from family and friends with divine intervention of theSupremeAlmighty.
Very recently I was at a Mall in Mangalore - I must confess such places have given me tremendous andstrangeinsightsandinteraction with rare people. That day was another lucky one, it seems to me. My sight was attracted to a bundle on a simple wheelchair
beingpushedbyayoungmaninthe centre of the Mall's main floor witha livelyatmosphere. From a distance I was shocked to see what seemedlikeawell-groomedfaceon top of a bundle of limbs very sadly placedwithoutshapeorsymmetry... Brought back distant memories of StephenHawking....thisguywasnot far off. I was in shock but did not lookaway,becausethefaceandthe smile and expression directly lookingatmecaptivatedmymind. I waved and there was a welcome immediate response. The caregiver brought the young man in the wheelchair directly near me. First, I was at a loss how to respond, but the smile, the eyes and body language disarmed me, and I held the person's unusual hand, and a strange feeling of confidence came into me. I was at a loss what languagetouse....Thedivineperson was neatly dressed in jeans and shirt. He asked me in a normal way, “are youfrom thisarea? Yes, Isaid and asked where he was from and got a very clear warm response "from Bantwal” and all the ice was broken and a warm admiration was all around, there was no crowd at the place as it was a weekday. We
spoke for some time, and the time did not matter, then we exchanged mobile contacts, and I took a treasured selfie with this mentally confident, friendly and cultured human, that I cannot still fathom. The lightning contact in that spot I wouldlabelasa miracleandwedid not know anything of each other and normally in such situations it takes time to know and feel comfortable,butherewasamiracle that immediately clicked, and exchanges reveal a mighty human story. I would like to share some facts about this Human heap of
assorted limbs that is a mindboggling influence and motivation that can never be put in a rational
form and shape. More of our readers need to know about AHMED KABEER and his heroic story and how he handles an unusuallifethatshouldbeabeacon to many. Most, who at evenmild ill health or pain are devastated and frustrated to the extreme. Life is to acceptandmakethebestof......only then the Almighty will provide all strength and support, which is unimaginable as with our friend Ahmed Kabeer the Boss here. Letusstoptohearhisstory ismost impressiveandDivine:
"My name is Ahmed Kabeer. I am 25 years old, and I live in Kanchinodi, Bantwal Taluk, near
Mangalore. This small place has beenthecenterofmylife,wheremy struggles began but also where my dreamsstartedgrowing. Iwasborn healthy, but at the age of one, everything changed. My health condition slowly took away my strength and mobility. Today, I cannot move on my own, I cannot lift even a glass of water if I need anything, I depend entirely on my mother and others. I do my communication work only with one strong finger. At times it feels impossible, but Allah gave me the courage to turn this one finger into my greatest strength. With it, I run my business, create content, and connect with the world. My disabilitytookawaymybody,butit gave me a Spirit with patience, creativity, and the will to fight back andsucceed.
In the beginning, for around six months, I had a teacher who came home to teach me. After that, most ofmylearninghasbeenself-taught. I gained knowledge through reading,exploringsocialmedia,and interacting with my teams/customers. This way of learninghelpedmeconnectdirectly
with real life experiences and mind power. My biggest challenge is my inability to move on my own. But withtheconstantcareofmymother and the support of my family, I manage my daily life. In my career, whenever I face obstacles, I focus deeply on the situation, look for possible solutions, and never give up until I find a way forward. I believe every problem has an answer. You just need patience and therightmindset.
I’mblessedtohavegraduallybuilta career that combines creativity and
entrepreneurship. I started with photo and video editing, then expanded into creating 'YouTube' content.Fromthere,Iventuredinto building my own online shop, crafting hampers, event photography and videography, event organizing, travel services, and makeovers. My work is diverse because I love exploring new opportunities and finding creative ways to serve my clients,withbetterways. I also love positively motivating my GenZ contacts. Honestly, it wasn’t easy. My disability limited me to working outside,butIrefusedtoletthatstop me. I used technology, creativity, and determination to start up from home. Every challenge became powerful fuel to push harder, and today, seeing my ideas come alive and serving clients gives me strength and happiness. Bless the folkswhohavesupportedandstand by me. My biggest support has always been with my family, especially my mother. Her 'duas’, prayers are my greatest shield. My close friends have also been a source of encouragement. Above all, my greatest motivator is Allah. EverydifficultyHEplacedinmypath
camewithhiddenstrength,wisdom and solutions. With real patience and tawakkul (trust/faith/hope in Allah), I’ve learned that even the hardest journeys can lead to the mostbeautifuldestinations.
As a freelancer and entrepreneur, myincomevariesdependingonthe projects and clients I work with. Some months are better than others, but I’m continuously workingtoexpandmybusinessand growfinancially.Morethanincome, I focus on building something sustainable, so that one day I can provide opportunities to others as well.Idon’thaveapermanentteam, but I collaborate with professionals wheneverrequired.Forexample,for
wedding photography, I connect clients with reliable photographers. For travel services, I work with trusted providers. My family, friends, and well-wishers have been my constant supporters, and their encouragement gives me the courage to keep moving forward. My work has given me confidence, dignity, and independence. It showed me that financial stability is not just about money, it’s about the ability to create, grow, and inspire others. Throughmybusiness,I’vebeenable to collaborate with brands, build meaningful connections, and gain recognition for my efforts. Every opportunity reminds me that passion and persistence can turn even the toughest situations into success.
What I may like to add for my dear people is, never let your limitations define you. Focus on what you can do, not on what you can’t. Be positive, use your creativity, and take that first step no matter how small it is. Your resilience and consistency will open doors you never imagined. Believe in yourself, becauseeverystrugglecanbecome the start of something beautiful. A
Divine opportunity and open heavenlydoors."
-Compiled By: Ivan SaldanhaShet.
Points to Ponder, December 2025
India’s Picks & Shovel AI Stocks
CaliforniaGoldRushofthe1840s& 1850s provided an important insight to the investors which has come to be dubbed as investing in “picks&shovels”stocks.Duringthe goldrush,companiesthatproduced and sold essential tools and accessories required by the hordes of miners turned in handsome profits regardless of the success or failure of mining. Levi Strauss is a famous example of having created durable denim work pants to be worn by the miners, a product that
gave birth to a long lasting and successfulbusinessenterprise.
If the gold rush spawned its own pick&shovelscompaniesinthe19th century, what could be the prevailing megatrend that is likely to give rise to such companies? Some of the most profitable companies that are straddling the
globe today are pioneers of the AI revolution. For instance, Nvidia, the leading AI chipmaker boasts of a market capitalisation of $5 trillion, whichismorethantheGDPofevery single country in the world, except two! In India, when it comes to AI, we certainly are not in the same league as the US and China. But as the Economist (London) observes:
“Artificial intelligence(AI) is taking off in India. The country is now the second-largest market for OpenAI, whose ChatGPTservice has 700m active users worldwide. Anthropic, anotherAIstartup,alsocountsIndia as its second-largest market by usage. That reflects not just India’s huge population but also its appetite for new technology. According toBCG, a consultancy,92% of Indian office workers regularly useAItools, comparedwith64%inAmerica”.No wonder, Open AI has decided to offer its base version of ChatGPT freeforoneyearfrom4th November 2025. This growing market for AI applications is throwing up opportunities to invest in picks & shovels stocks supporting the AI revolution. Consider GCCs (Global Capability Centres) that provide
essential talent pool to support advancesinAIanddatacentresthat provide the infrastructure required to run its applications. Data centres aren't small server rooms; they're sprawling facilities, housing racks upon racks of GPUs working round the clock to train large language models - the kind of technology that powers ChatGPT. So, India's biggest business houses and global techgiantsarealreadystakingtheir claim. Reliance, Adani, Airtel, TCS, Tech Mahindra, and even Google are committing billions to build massive data centres and set up AI infrastructure here. These centres call for uninterrupted power supplies and backup systems because a blackout can cripple operations. They need advanced cooling systems because GPUs generateenormousheat.Theyneed physical space - acres of it - to housethesegiantfacilitiesandthey also need cables, switches, and transformers to keep the data and electricity flowing. So, behind the scenes, the companies that quietly supplythetools,hardwareandinfra could be the new winning “picks & shovels” stocks of this disruptive AI trend.
Of course, picking winners is a risky game in any situation, since there are far too many variables to contend with. But there is no harm is scouring the horizon for likely emergingwinnersinthisnewgame. Take Netweb Technologies, a relatively young company. It has, of laterunuptoosharply,toofast.But itstillholdsa crediblegrowthstory. As of Q1 FY26, the company has installed over 500 supercomputing systems, 50 Private Cloud and HCI (Hyperconverged Infrastructure) systems,and5,000accelerator/GPUbased AI systems and enterprise workstations. It offers HPS (High PerformanceStorage)solutionswith a throughput storage of up to 450 GB/s. It was involved in the implementation of the Kabru supercomputer (India's secondfastest supercomputer) and the PARAM YUVA II (India's fastest supercomputer) and is participating
in the National Supercomputing MissionoftheGovernmentofIndia. One could also look at E2E Networks, a homegrown cloud provider specializing in GPU infrastructure, offering services out ofkeyhubslikeNoidaandMumbai. Without such services, the AI revolution would stall. Then there's the power story. Running a large data centre requires huge amount of power, so much power that it could light up a small town. This naturally boosts demand for many products - cables, switches, transformers, and voltage gear. CompanieslikePolycab,Havells,RR Cables,D-Link,and3MIndiahavea direct line into this growth. Backup generators? That's where Kirloskar Oil Engines and Cummins India come into play. For battery backup, Exide is positioning itself in the high-end DC segment. Cooling is another overlooked but critical piece.KeepingracksofGPUsatsafe operatingtemperaturesisn'teasyin Indian summers. Bluestar, with its expertise in precision cooling, stands to benefit as data centres mushroom. Even real estate players are turning this trend into opportunity.AnantRaj,forexample,
isabeneficiary,suggestinghowthe propertybusinessisbeingreshaped by AI infrastructure. And not to forgetthekingpinof chips -Nvidia. GPUs are the beating heart of AI. Nvidia's dominance here is so complete that even China has accused it of anti-competitive practices. While Nvidia itself isn't listedinIndia,manyIndianfirmsare closely linked to it, either as distributors,partners,orintegrators. A promising company in this space is Rashi Peripherals. The company recently concluded a massive Rs 15 billion order from Yotta Infrastructure to supply servers and components for one of India's first large AI data centres. Beyond such institutional projects, Rashi has anothergrowthlever:itisthebridge between global brands like Nvidia, Intel, ASUS, HP and the Indian consumer market. As AI-powered PCs begin rolling out in India, distributors like Rashi could be the quietbeneficiaries. While the above cogitations might suggest that AI isn't just about algorithmsorfancyapplicationsbut also about a new digital infrastructure being built brick by brick, server by server, transformer
by transformer, there are also sectors out there which could benefit substantially by harnessing AI.Thesectorthatstandstobenefit the most is BFSI (Banking, Financial Services & Insurance). Banks, Stock Exchanges, Depositories and a whole host of financial service providers could improve reach, speed of execution, productivity and quality of service with AI applications, Generative AI and Agentic AI. Same would be case with consulting and legal outfits. Insurance companies are already deployingAIinunderwriting,claims processing and optimising risk management. For a prescient investor the trick is to identify candidates who are, or likely to be most successful in reaping gains by harvestingAI. Anoteofcautionis,however,called for. While most picks & shovel stocksarelikelytobeimmunefrom the progress or otherwise of the AI revolution, their fortunes are likely to gyrate along with the tortuous pathAIislikelytotraverse.Thepath tosuccesshasseldombeensmooth. Some analysts are already apprehending an AI bubble with some well-known AI or Associated
stocks sharply down from their 52week highs. CoreWeave is down 60%, Super Micro Computer about 50%, Oracle some 40% and Soft Bank, which is investing heavily in OpenAIdownabout25%.Andnow there is “The Big Short” called out on X by the redoubtable Michael Burry who has pointed out that hyperscale’s like Amazon, Microsoft and Oracle are inflating profits by understating depreciation on chips and servers. By depreciating these assetsover5to6yearsinsteadofa realistic time span of 2 to 3 years, the hyperscale’s will collectively understate depreciation by $ 176 billionfrom2026to28.Burrypoints out that in 2024, Nvidia has announcedthatitwilldesignnewAI chips every year, instead of every twoyears.Theolderchipsmightnot earntopdollar,forcing hyperscale’s to constantly upgrade to stay competitive.
Theslipbetweenthecupandthelip is not unusual in the world of investment. The only defence against such slips is uncompromising diligence and eternalvigilance.
Elevate Your Travel: Healthy Eating Before Your Flight
dehydrationetc…..Thereasonsmay be different. But one of the main reasons is food. We normally either skipthefoodortakefoodduringfly time from the plane. Flights often presentchallengestomaintaininga healthydiet.
RoshanDsouza,Kinnigoly
Air travel is always exciting. Often, wetravelontheflightandenjoythe flight journey. May be its domestic or international. Might be the flight journey for tour, attending the event, business meeting, family meeting,vacationetc… Thereasonmaybedifferentbutthe goal of everybody is same and that toreachthedestinysafeandsound.
But often flight journey leads to irritation, tiredness, bad health.
Travellingbyplaneoftenleavesyou withsome'timetokill'attheairport after you have checked in and before your flight departs. Take things to do at the airport so that food doesn't become the only focus. A good book, magazine, crossword, sudoku or listening to music manages time. If you take fruit, sandwiches, cereal bars and waterwithyouifallowed,youdon't haveto relyonthe choicesatthe
airport.
Air travel is never fun. Crammedseats, cabin pressure, blockedears,greasyfood,toomany layovers, changing time zones, cold air and the like all combine to tax our body and mind in more ways than one. But with a little planning and knowledge, you can enjoy a flight without compromising your health. While a certain amount of discomfort is inevitable, there are a few precautions you can take to make your flying experience healthierandhappier.
It is recommended to have food at home before leaving to the airport. Eatingalight,easilydigestiblemeal beforeheadingtotheairportisbest to avoid discomfort during your flight. Here are the five reasons to eatbeforeheadingtotheairport
1)Airport is a wallet trap, overpriced,oilyandrarelyfresh.Eat
before you go and your money & gutbothstayhappytogether.
2)Good meals regulate your blood sugar. Flying hungry spikes stress hormones & makes you crave junk mid-air. No wonder you keep munching on packaged foods that arecalorie dense & not good for 3)yourlovehandles.
4)Protein & healthy fats before travel keep you full longer. You will skip those sugar heavy snacks or drinks that drain your energy midflight.
5)Security & boarding delays are unpredictable. Having eaten means you are calm, not cranky or impulsive around food. Ever seen peoplelosetheircoolatairportstaff or cabin crew? Chances are there that they didn’t eat well before leavingfortheairport
6)Digestion starts on the ground not in turbulence. Eating pre-flight helps your body process food better.NoBloating,Noindigestion. So next time eat smart, travel light andfly.
AdditionalTipsforaHealthierFlight
1)Get up and move: Take short walks up and down the aisle to improvecirculationanddigestion.
2)Manage stress: Use relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to reduce stress, which canaffectdigestion.
3)Choose your seat wisely: If possible, select a seat with easy access to the restroom for frequent hydrationbreaks.
Long-distanceplanetravel
Spending hours with your knees tucked up to your tray table combined with crossing time zones can play havoc with your body. Adjust your watch to the time at your destination as soon as you set footontheplaneandwhenitcomes to eating and drinking, keep up a regular pattern as far as you can. Whenyouarriveatyourdestination, try to wake and sleep at the times dictated by your new environment. This will help you to mentally and physically adjust to your new time zonemorequicklythanifyoutryto keepwithyourhometimezone.The air circulating in a plane is not
humidified and can contribute to dehydration. Aim to drink water regularlyduringtheflight.
With new regulations, on many flights it is not permitted to carry fluid over 100mls onboard. This includes water. In this case, it is especially important to request water regularly from flight attendants. 1-2 glasses/hour is a goodstart.
Keepingmobileduringplanetravel isextremelyimportanttohelpkeep the blood flowing. While you are sitting, wiggle your toes, circle your ankles, raise and lower your knees. Take a short walk around the plane atleasteveryhourifpossible. By following above tips, you can enjoy a healthier and more comfortable flight. Remember, small changes can make a big difference in your overall wellbeing.
St Aloysius Gonzaga School holds
Fancy Fete “Viva Gonzaga” on Children’sDay
On 15 November 2025, St Aloysius Gonzaga School celebrated Children’sDaywithgreatsplendour under the title “Viva Gonzaga.” The
event was organised in collaboration with the School Management and the Executive Committee of the Parent-Teacher Association, at St Aloysius PU Collegeground.
Ms Remona Evette Pereira, a recipient of the Golden Book of WorldRecords,gracedtheoccasion astheChiefGuest.Sheinaugurated theprogrammeand,inheraddress, urged parents to recognise their children’s interests and talents and to motivate them consistently. She also expressed her gratitude to the Aloysiusinstitutionsforthesupport theyhadextendedinherjourneyof achievement.
Rev. Fr Rohan D Almeida SJ, Principal of the institution, addressed the gathering and informedthemthatthefundsraised through the Fancy Fete, a special feature of the Children’s Day celebration, would be dedicated to a social cause. He announced that thiscontribution would supportthe developmentofessentialfacilitiesat Loyola Kendriya Vidyalaya, Mundagod, a sister concern of St AloysiusInstitutions.
In his presidential address, Rev. Fr MelwinJosephPintoSJ,Presidentof theAloysiusinstitutions,statedthat onemustlearntobuildbridges,not
walls. He wished that such events, which unite communities and strengthen human relationships, continuetotakeplacefrequently.
With over 60 stalls offering food products, games, and retail items, the event took on the flavour of a grand festival. Students and the parents participated with enthusiasm and benefitted immensely. The cultural performances captivated everyone, especially the vibrant dance presentations by the Lambani and
Siddi communities of Mundagod, which were a visual treat. Students, teachers,andparentstoopresented variousentertainingperformances.
The event was graced by the presence of Vice-Principals, Mrs Laurel D’Souza and Mrs Aparna Suresh.
Teacher Mrs Carol Tina welcomed the gathering. PTA Vice President Mrs Reena Noronha proposed the vote of thanks. Committee member Mrs Ashel Rodrigues compered the programme.
Sumadhur Concert
The inaugural Sumadhur concert, marking Joshal D’Souza’s debut as an independent artist, captivated theaudienceatStAgnesCentenary Hall, Mangaluru, with a compelling blend of music, dance, and visual storytelling.
Held on Sunday, November 15, the event showcased Joshal’s artistic journey and her commitment to nurturing young talent. The packed auditorium witnessed an inspiring
celebration of music and achievement.
Organised by the Sumadhur Sangeeth Academy, the event opened with a traditional welcome dance performed by academy students.
The gathering was attended by several distinguished guests, including Michael D’Souza, NRI entrepreneur and philanthropist;
Daijiworld; Fr Paul Melwyn D’Souza, Provincial Superior of the OFM Congregation; Wilson Fernandes, managing director of Fernandes Group; Naveen Cardoza, managing director of Marian Builders; Abhiman Roy, Kannada music director; Louis Pinto, president of Mandd Sobhann; Anil Lobo Fermai, chairman of MCC Bank; and Stany Alvares, president of the Karnataka Sahitya Academy.
In his address, Michael D’Souza praised the academy for offering classical training and prestigious platformstoyounglearners.“Joshal is a role model for aspiring musicians,” he said. “She faced her own challenges in learning music, yet ensured others would not encounter the same. Her academy continues to empower young talent.” He also emphasised the importance of remembering one’s roots and mother tongue, adding that his vision for Konkani culture aligned with that of the academy. “I am delighted to witness 170 students perform on one stage,” he said.
Walter Nandalike lauded Joshal’s dedication to music. “I have followed her journey closely,” he said. “Despite being trained as an engineer,sheleftherjobintheUAE to pursue her passion. Not only did she succeed, but she also created opportunities for others by founding her academy.” He also acknowledged the support of Joshal’s husband, Prakash, whose contributions he described as invaluable.
Fr Paul Melwyn D’Souza, who has known Joshal since childhood, described her as a unique talent nurtured by supportive parents. “Shehasgrownintoarolemodelfor all of us,” he said, wishing her continued success. Students who cleared pre-grade, grade 1, grade 2, and other graded music examinations were felicitated with certificates and mementoes. Those who excelled shows and competitions were also honoured. The poster for the upcoming Sumadhur chapter in Udupi was unveiledbyRonaldD’Souzaandthe office-bearersoftheCatholicSabha Udupi Deanery. Joshal expressed her gratitude to sponsors and contributors. The inaugural programmewascomperedbyRupal D’Souza. What followed was an enthralling two-hour musical journey. Joshal and her students presented performances designed to reflect her artistic path from Mangaluru to her birthplace, Ujire.
medley dedicated to iconic female voices such as Meena Rebimbus, Joyce Ozario, Babita D’Souza, Ivy D’Souza, Anitha D’Souza, Preema Rodrigues, Zeena Pereira, Lydwin Cutina,andShilpaCutinha.Another standout was a Hindi classical medley dedicated to Lata Mangeshkar and Shreya Ghoshal, which moved the audience deeply.
The evening’s grand moment came when 170 students performed a Baila number together, creating a visually spectacular scene.
A poignant highlight wasa Konkani
The programme featured duets, group performances, choral presentations, and backing vocals, displaying the full range of talent cultivated at the academy. The musicians, led by Sanjay Rodrigues, provided exceptional accompaniment,whiledancersfrom Urban Groove added energy to the performances.EmceeNelsonMonis wonwideappreciationforhispoetic narration and engaging stage presence. Prakash D’Souza, convenor of the concert, ensured seamless execution, and the entire show was curated and directed by StanyBela.
The next Sumadhur concert will be heldatUdupi–KallianpuronApril5, 2026.
The Pulse of the City: Music, Entertainment, and Culture in Mangaluru
PrinsonDʼLima
For any city to truly grow, it must invest in its youth. They are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but the driving force of today. When cities prioritize youth development, they fuel innovation, strengthen the economy, and build a vibrant culturalheartbeat.
Helping the aspirations of younger generation through better jobs, better income opportunities, and better spaces for fun and creativity
is not just a choice. It is something every developing city must focus on.
Mangaluru’ s path to progress depends greatly onhow it supports its young generation. Once recognized mainly for its academic excellence, healthcare facilities and financial services, the city is now undergoing a broader transformation. With major industries like MCF, MRPL and Infosys already operating in the region, Mangaluru is poised to welcome new players and strengthen its network of local enterprises.
For a long time, Gen Z and millennials felt that Mangaluru lacked exciting weekend options, apartfromitsbeachesandalimited number of malls.Recently, however, the atmosphere has begun to shift. The city is witnessing a rise in events, meet-ups and social experiences, with plenty more on
the way. It may not compete with Bengaluru or Mumbai just yet, but Mangaluru is quickly carving out a dynamic lifestyle scene that is closingthegap.
A few significant events worth highlightingare:
1)SumadhurConcert
The Sumadhur concert, held on November 15, 2025, at St Agnes Centenary Hall, marked Joshal D’Souza’s independent debut and drew a full house. Featuring a rich mix of music, dance and visual storytelling, the event showcased herartisticgrowthandcommitment toempoweringyoungtalent.
The occasion was graced by several distinguished guests, including philanthropist Michael D’Souza, Daijiworld founder Walter Nandalike, Fr Paul Melwyn D’Souza, industry leaders Wilson Fernandes andNaveenCardoza,musicdirector Abhiman Roy, Mandd Sobhann president Louis Pinto, MCC Bank chairman Anil Lobo and Karnataka Sahitya Academy president Stany Alvares.
Students of Joshal D’Souza who cleared the pre-grade, Grade 1, Grade 2 and other graded music
examinations were felicitated with certificates and mementoes. The programme included duets, group performances, choral presentations and backing vocals, showcasing the wide spectrum of talent nurtured at the academy. Under the leadership of Sanjay Rodrigues, the musicians delivered outstanding accompaniment,whiledancersfrom Urban Groove brought vibrant energy to the stage. The concert was seamlessly coordinated by convenor Prakash D’Souza and thoughtfully curated and directed byStanyBela.
The gathering was further enriched by the presence of prominent Konkani music and media personalities such as Meena Rebimbus,VishwasRebimbus,Joyce Ozario,AshwinDecosta,JasonLobo, LeezaRodrigueswithherfamilyand manymore.
In one of the performances, Joshal paidheartfelttributetothelate Eric Ozario, honoring his significant contributions to Konkani language andculture.
The evening proved to be a tremendous success, combining a mesmerizingmusicalshowcasewith
an enjoyable social gatheringfor all attendees.
Piccourtesy: Daijiworldmedia
2)Amchem Fest
A night of music, food, and giving back came alive on November 16, 2025, at Kebea Gardens, Bondel, thanks to Parivarthane Foundation and Catholic City Friends. Mangaluru witnessed for the first time the electrifying Black in White, Goa’s top band, featuring Mark Revlon, alongside the energetic BandEcstasy. The evening was both entertaining and meaningful, creating a memorable experience for all attendees.
Supporting a noble cause by providing essential medical equipment to those in need, this grand celebration takes place in a picturesquesettingofgreeneryand open skies. The environment inspires attendees to connect, collaborate, and celebrate together inatrulymemorableway.
PicCourtesy:Daijiworldmedia
3)Prajoth Dʼsa Live in MangaloreKalangann
OnJanuary4,2026,thecityissetto come alive with an unforgettable musical extravaganza. The spotlight shines on none other than Prajoth D’Souza, often called the Sonu Nigam of Coastal Karnataka, promising a night of soul-stirring melodies.
With a strong fan following across the region, he has always mesmerized audiences with his emotive renditions and dynamic stagepresence. Adding to magic is the incredible bassistMiltonBraggs, guaranteeing electrifying rhythms that will make thecrowdgrooveallnightlong.This is one concert Mangaluru cannot affordtomiss!
4)KonkaniMovies
Mangalorean with a deep love for art, culture, and cinema can now enjoy a growing number of films made in their own mother tongue. Konkani cinema continues to flourish with several noteworthy releases. FondachoMistherandMy DearFatherhave already won the hearts of audiences with their compelling storytelling, while Stany Bela’sBapachePutacheNavimisset to hit theatres on November 28th, generating great anticipation. Meanwhile, the official teaser of Vaganso Khel has already been released, signaling another exciting addition to the industry. Adding to
the momentum, Rayan Magneto’s RM03is now ready to go on floors, promising yet another engaging productionforKonkanifilmlovers.
Along with the events mentioned above, there are many more programmes comingup for the
Christmas holidays and New Year season. From concerts and family gatherings to festive shows and communitycelebrations,peoplecan stay updated through various websites that regularly post details of upcoming events. This helps everyone plan their holidays better and enjoy the celebrations happeninginandaroundthecity
To stay updated on all your favorite concerts, shows, and gatherings, check out the full schedule at: https://www.coastalcolors.in/upco ming-events-mangalore-udupi Wishingyouallaveryhappyholiday season!
Bimbla Puddi Nonche
CoastalSun-CuredHogPlumPickle
AtreasureddelicacyfromtheKonkancoast, BimblaPuddi Nonche isa boldandtangypicklemadefrom sun-wisehogplums(bimbuli),carefully spicedandnaturallymatured.Thispicklerequiresnooilorvinegar—yet burstswithflavoursthatelevatethesimplestmealintoamemorablefeast. Traditionallypreparedinsmallbatchesandmaturedovernight,itisa celebrationofpatience,spice,andindigenouswisdom.
Nooil.Nopreservatives.Noshortcuts. This rustic picklerelies solely ontimeandtraditionto develop its remarkable depthofflavour—makingitnot just adish,but aheritage experienceinevery spoonful.
Catholic Association of South Kanara(CASK),incollaborationwith the Young Catholic Students (YCS) Mangalore Diocese, organized a one-day Diocesan Student Leadership Training Programme (DSLTP) on 1st November 2025 at Padua Institutions Auditorium, Nanthoor.
The program commenced with a soulful prayer song, invoking God’s blessings, followed by a formal
inaugural ceremony that set a positive and enthusiastic tone for the day.
Mrs Marjorie Texeira, the V.P. of CASK was the Chief Guest. She called upon the youth to imbibe leadership qualities and stressed upon the need to take up responsibilities in various organisations.
The first activity-based session was
conducted by Ms. Queenie Maria D’Costa on the topic *Who is a Leader and Types of Leadership*. Through engaging interactions, she enlightened the participants about the essence of true leadership, emphasizing that a leader is not merelyonewhocommandsbutone who inspires, guides, and serves.
Then the participants were energized for an interactive and dynamic session by Mr. Brian Fernandeson*CreativeLeadership*. He began with a stimulating memorygamedesignedtoenhance focus and recall ability. Later, he divided the students into groups and assigned a creative task — to constructamodelofachurchusing limited resources. The activity fostered team spirit, collaboration, innovative thinking, and problemsolving skills among the participants.
The final session was delivered by Mr. Peter Anthony Pinto on *Rewards of Leadership*. He eloquently elaborated on five key dimensions of effective leadership — Satisfaction, Influence, Growth, Fulfilment, and Networking. Through insightful questions such as “Is being a leader free?” and “Do we get rewards for being a leader?” he encouraged participants to reflect deeply on the sacrifices and gratifications that accompany leadership.
The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing sincere gratitude to all the resource persons, organizers, and participants for their contributions to the success of the event. Mr. Richard Alvares, Fr Roshan D’Cunha (Director, YCS Mangalore Diocese), and Mr. Peter Pinto (CASK) distributed certificates of participation to all attendees.
The DSLTP 2025 turned out to be a memorable, enriching, and
After the lunch break, the third session was led by Mr. Joselyn T. Lobo on the theme *Communication in Leadership*. Throughanengagingandthoughtprovoking presentation, he highlighted the various forms of communication, the importance of perception,andtheimpactofclarity inexpression.
transformative experience. Participants not only gained valuableinsightsintoleadershipbut also developed confidence, teamwork,creativity,andarenewed sense of responsibility. The day was
filledwithinteractivelearning,joyful participation, and inspiring takeaways. It motivated every young mind present to lead with purpose, act with empathy, and makealastingdifferenceinsociety.
NewBishop(Mangalorean)Fr.EdwardBaretto
New Bishop (Mangalorean) Fr.
Edward Baretto Appointed Coadjutor Bishop of Darjeeling on 29thNov,2025NewDelhi(CCBI):Fr.
EdwardBarettohasbeenappointed Coadjutor Bishop of Darjeeling by Pope Leo XIV. The announcement wasmadeon29November2025.Fr. Baretto, 60, is currently the judicial vicar of the diocese and the coordinator of its diocesan commissions.
Fr. Baretto was born on 5 January 1965 in Alampuri (Nirkan Parish , in Bantwal Taluk of the Mangalore diocese in Karnataka. He received his early education at St. Thomas HigherPrimarySchoolinNirkanand continued his studies at Milagres High School in Mangalore. He
joined the John XXIII Minor SeminaryinDarjeelingin1982.
Over the years, he served in various parishes, including Our Lady of LourdesChurchatLizaHillandMary MotherofGodChurchatRelliRoad, Kalimpong. In 2022, he became Director of the Divya Vani Pastoral Centre in Darjeeling. He is also the Secretary to the Commissions of Liturgy and Canon Law. Since July 2025, he has been the Coordinator oftheDiocesanCommissions.
The Diocese of Darjeeling was establishedon8August1962,when the Darjeeling District was separated from the Archdiocese of Calcutta and combined with the Apostolic Prefecture of SikkimKalimpong. In 1997, the Siliguri region was carved out to form the Diocese of Bagdogra. Today, the
Darjeeling Diocese covers the districts of Darjeeling and Kalimpong, the entire state of Sikkim,andtheKingdomofBhutan.
Thediocesehas47,823Catholics,73 parishes, 107 priests, and 116 men and 128 women religious. Bishop Stephen Lepcha, 72, has been leading the diocese for the past 28 years.
Catholic roots in Darjeeling stretch back to 10 October 1846, when the Irish Loreto Sisters arrived in the hills, soon after Darjeeling was openedasahillstationin1835.The regionhadbeendiscoveredin1828 byCaptainLloydandJ.W.Grantand later gifted to the British by the ChogyalofSikkim.
Dr.StephenAlathara
Shalet PintotoSt. Agnes College
StAgnesCollegehadthehonourof welcoming its distinguished alumna, Mrs Shalet Pinto, who visitedheralmamaterfollowingher appointment as the Chairperson of the Karnataka Ecotourism, Board. The college felicitated Mrs Shalet, celebrating her notable achievement.
Mrs Pinto recalled with gratitude her formative years at St Agnes College, acknowledging the values, discipline, and foundation she
receivedasastudent.Sheattributed her professional accomplishments to hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to her goals, qualities she said were nurturedduringhertimeatAgnes.
The Principal expressed immense joyin MrsPinto’s accomplishments, appreciating her consistent dedication and the significant responsibility she now holds as Chairperson of Ecotourism. She congratulatedheronthismilestone and extended heartfelt wishes for continued success in her future endeavours.
The visit concluded on a warm and inspiring note, strengthening the bondbetweentheinstitutionandits alumnae.
Poetica Kavigoshti 44 and Distribution of Free Shoes, Socks, and Toys to School Children
This was the first-ever event of its kind in the school’s history. The programme began with a prayer
Mangaluru: Poetica Kavigoshti 44 and the distribution of free shoes, socks, and toys for school children was grandly organised on Wednesday, 19 November 2025, at Rosa Mystica Higher Primary School, Kinnikambla, under the initiative of the Poetica poets.
song and a welcome dance performedbythestudents.Teacher Poornimawelcomedthegathering.
The ceremony was inaugurated by lighting the lamp under the presidentship of Dr. Sr. Lilly Pereira, Provincial Superior of the Bethany Congregation, Mangalore Province.
Thechiefguestfortheoccasionwas Sr. Leena Pereira, Head of the Local Rosa Mystica Community. Poetica Presidentandprogrammeconvenor Poet Naveen Pereira, Suratkal was honoured during the event.
JournalistGaneshAdyapady,School Correspondent Sr. Rose Leeta, PTA Vice President Namitha S., and Headmistress Sr. Veena Aranha werepresentonthestage.
Later, under the chairmanship of Vijaya Karnataka journalist Ganesh Adyapady, the kavigoshti was held. Poets Irene Mendonca Cascia, Sabitha Fernandes Derebail, Jacintha Mascarenhas Derebail, Edward Lobo Tokkottu, and Poetica President Naveen Pereira Suratkal recited their poems. Edward Lobo Tokkottu entertained the audience withmimicry.
Headmistress Sr. Veena Aranha presented mementoes and honoured all the poets. Teacher Preetha Lobo anchored the programme, and Assistant Teacher Sr. Navaneetha proposed the vote ofthanks.
After the stage programme, shoes, socks, and toys were distributed to all the schoolchildren. The joy on the children’s faces made the atmosphere feel heavenly and left theaudiencespellbound.
Roy Castelino Elected President of Rachana, Catholic Chamber of Commerce & Industry
The 26th General Body Meeting of Rachana, the Catholic Chamber of Commerce of Mangalore, was held on 16.11.25 at the Bendoor Hall. Catholic leader and entrepreneur Roy Castelino was unanimously elected as President for the upcoming two-year term.
At the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held this Sunday evening at Bendur Church hall, Roy Castelino waselectedasthenewPresidentof Rachana, Catholic Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The election
marks a significant transition in leadership for the prominent organization dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and professional growth within the Catholic community.
Castelino,awell-respectedfigure in the region’s business landscape, bringsa wealthofexperience and a proventrackrecordofleadershipto his new role.
The AGM also saw the election of other key office bearers who will servealongsideCastelinoinguiding Rachana’s strategic direction. Leslie Rego was elected Vice President, Alron Rodrigues will serve as Secretary, James J. Madtha as Joint Secretary, and Naveen Lobo as Treasurer. These individuals represent a diverse range of expertiseandastrongcommitment to Rachana’s mission.
In addition to the core leadership team,thefollowingindividualshave been chosen as members of the GoverningBody:MarcelMonteiro,
Ronald Gomes, Stany Alvares, William D’Souza, Nelson Monteiro, and Sunil Vas. Their collective insights and experience will be invaluable in shaping Rachana’s policies and initiatives. Rachana, Catholic Chamber of Commerce & Industry, has long been recognized as a vital platform for Catholic entrepreneurs, professionals, and business leaders to connect, collaborate, and contribute to the economic development of the region. The organization provides a range of services, including networking events, mentorship programs, skill development workshops, and advocacy initiatives.
The newly elected leadership team isexpectedtobuilduponRachana’s
existing strengths while also exploring new avenues for growth andinnovation.Keyprioritiesforthe upcoming year are anticipated to include [mention potential focus areas based on Rachana’s mission, e.g., expanding membership, enhancing mentorship opportunities, promoting ethical business practices, supporting Catholic-owned businesses, advocating for favorable policies].
With a strong leadership team now in place, Rachana is well-positioned to continue its vital work in empowering the Catholic business community and fostering a vibrant economic ecosystem. The organization’s members and stakeholders have expressed optimism about the future under the guidance of the newly elected Presidentandhisteam.
World Day of the Poor Observed at St
Anthony’s Charity Institutes, Jeppu
Mangaluru, 16 December:
St Anthony’s Charity Institutes, Jeppu, a key charitable arm of the DioceseofMangalore,meaningfully observedtheWorldDayofthePoor with prayer, fellowship, and cultural celebration, reflecting the Church’s enduring commitment to uphold the dignity of the poor and the abandoned.
The day began with a Thanksgiving Holy Mass offered in the various
chapels of the Institute by Rev. Fr J. B. Crasta, Director, together with Rev. Fr Gilbert D’Souza, Rev. Fr Nelson Oliver, and Rev. Fr Vivian Rodriguez. The Eucharist was offered in gratitude for God’s blessings upon all benefactors, residents, collaborators, and caregivers who support the mission entrustedtotheAshram.
Following the Holy Mass, a cultural get-togetherwasorganisedforthe
residents of St Anthony’s Poor Home. The programme was presidedoverbyRev.FrJ.B.Crasta, with Rev. Fr Praveen Martis serving astheChiefGuest.
In his message, Rev. Fr J. B. Crasta highlighted that the poor are precious in the sight of God and remindedthegatheringthatSacred Scriptureconsistentlybringstolight the struggles, faith, and dignity of the poor. He emphasised that St Anthony’s Poor Home stands as a visible sign of God’s compassion, offering care, shelter, and hope to the needy and the abandoned an
important ministry of the Diocese carriedoutthroughthisAshram. Residents joyfully participated in various competitions and cultural performances, showcasing their talents. Students of St Anthony’s Institutions extended their support throughout the celebration. A graceful welcome dance by Ashine setajoyfultonefortheevent. Rev. Fr Vivian Rodriguez effectively compered the programme while alsodeliveringthewelcomeaddress and vote of thanks, expressing heartfelt gratitude to all who contributedtothecelebration.
The event concluded with a renewed reminder of the Christian call to compassion, solidarity, and service. Echoing the theme of the day, the celebration affirmed the message that “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord” (Proverbs19:17),andthatserviceto the poor isservicerenderedto ChristHimself. =========
St Aloysius University holds Workshop on “Unboxing AI” for Dental PGs and Faculty
St Aloysius (Deemed to be University),Mangaluru – TheSchool of Engineering (SOE), St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), in collaboration with the Manipal College of Dental Sciences (MCODS), Mangalore, organized a one-dayworkshoptitled“Unboxing AI”. Held at Sanidhya Hall on the St Aloysiuscampus,theworkshopwas designed exclusively for the postgraduate students and faculty
members of MCODS, focusing on the integration of Artificial Intelligence in dental education, research,andclinicalpractice. The workshop was inaugurated in the presence of esteemed dignitaries. Dr. Karthik Shetty, PG Coordinator, MCODS, highlighted the urgent need for engineering and medical institutions to break barriers and work together to offer innovative solutions to societal
challenges. Dr Srikanth, Associate Dean, MCODS, stressed the importance of embracing the rapid advancements in AI, stating that adapting to these changes is essentialforprofessionalstoremain relevant.
Inhispresidentialaddress,Rev.Dr
Melwyn D’Cunha SJ, Pro Vice Chancellor, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), emphasized the values of empathy, continuous learning, and adaptability while adopting transformative technologies such as AI. Dr S. Ruban,Dean,SchoolofEngineering, welcomed the gathering, Mr Siraj,
Chair of the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), proposed the vote of thanks, and Mr Glenson Toney, Assistant Dean, SOE, compered the event.
The inaugural ceremony was followedbyasessionbyDrS.Ruban titled “Why, How and When to Use AI: A Dental Perspective”, offering valuable insights into the practical and emerging applications of AI in dentalhealthcare.
Hands-on training sessions were later conducted at the JW Lab, Maffei Block. Mr Glenson Toney led an engaging session on building AI chatbots and utilizing AI tools for image classification. Participants developed their own personalised chatbots during the session, with
the top five models being recognized for creativity and performance.
MrSirajthendelivereda sessionon “AI-Driven Research: Working Smarter, Not Harder”, where he introduced participants to a range of advanced AI tools for literature search, data analysis, and scientific writing, aimed at enhancing researchefficiencyandaccuracy.
Theworkshopwasorganizedaspart of the ongoing MoU between St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) and Manipal College of Dental Sciences (MCODS), Mangalore, reaffirmingthecommitmentofboth institutions toward interdisciplinary collaboration and fostering AI literacyinhealthcareeducation.
Championship 2025
Golden Girl Jesnia Correa Strikes Gold again at CBSE National Skating
Mount Carmel Central School, Mangaluru proudly celebrates
the outstanding achievement of Grade IX student Jesnia Correa, who has once again won a gold medal at the CBSE National Skating Championship 2025. Displaying exceptional speed, agility and focus, Jesnia dominated the 500m rink race in the Under-17 category, held at
HSV Global School, Gurgaon, Haryana, from November 10 to 15, 2025. Her powerful performance placed her well ahead of the competition, earning her top honour and bringing tremendous pride to the school, her parents, and her mentors.
This victory adds another shining chapter to Jesnia’s impressive skating journey. Over
the years, she has steadily risen through district, state, and national competitions, consistently showcasing talent,
grit, and discipline. Her latest achievement stands as a beacon of motivation for every young sportsperson striving for excellence.
Jesnia’s parents, Jerome and Pritha Correaof Bejai, remainher strongest pillars of support, encouraging her every day to chase her dreams fearlessly. She gets trained at the Hi Flyers Skating Club, Skate City, Ashoknagar, where she is groomed under the mentorship of coaches Mr. Mohan, Mr. Prateek Raja, Mr. Ramanand and Mr. Kumar.
The management, principal, and staff of Mount Carmel Central School join her family and coaches in celebrating this proud moment. They applaud Jesnia for her dedication and unwavering spirit and extend their best wishes for her future events.
A Grace-Filled Triple Jubilee: First Anniversary of the Renovated Church, Sacrament of Confirmation, and Donors’ Jubilee at St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel. November18,2025
St Lawrence Church & Shrine witnessed a solemn triple celebration on November 18, 2025, marked by the Sacrament of
Confirmation, the First Anniversary of the renovated church, and the felicitation of donors. Most Rev. Dr Robert Michael Miranda, Bishop of Gulbarga, presided over the EucharisticMass.Theconcelebrants
included Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, Parish Priest; Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St Lawrence English Medium School; Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha; Rev. Fr ArulBetharram; Rev. Fr Peter Mascarenhas; Rev. Fr Ivan Peter Cordeiro, Asst. Manager, Codialbail Press;Rev. FrRaviKumar, MSIJ;and Rev. Fr James Britto, MSIJ. During
the solemn liturgy, Bishop Robert administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to 90 children of St Lawrence Church, Bondel, at 5:00 p.m.
In his inspiring homily, Bishop Robert first addressed the 90 children receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation. He beautifully explained the powerful working of
theHolySpirit,remindingthemthat the gifts of the Spirit strengthen, enlighten, and sanctify every believer. He emphasized that each child is uniquely blessed, wonderfully created, and called to be a living temple of God. Encouragingthemtoremainrooted in faith, he prayed that the Holy Spiritmayguide, guard,andinspire
them to lead lives filled with grace, courage,andChristianwitness. He further reflected on the Feast of St’s.PeterandPaul,the significance oftheirBasilicas,andthefourmajor Basilicas of Rome. Expressing gratitude to God on the first anniversary of the renovated church, he offered heartfelt prayers for all donors and benefactors who generously supported the parish. He urged the faithful to live as one family, to pray together in the church,andtostrengthenthebond of unity within the parish community.
Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, the
ParishPriest,expressedhisheartfelt gratitude totheBishopofGulbarga for presiding over the Holy Mass and for administering the Sacrament of Confirmation to the children. He also thanked all the concelebrating priests for their graciouspresence.
On behalf of all the donors, Mr Michael D’Souza, a Dubai-based NRI entrepreneur, was felicitated after the Mass by Most Rev. Dr Robert Michael Miranda with a shawl, a flower bouquet, and a St Lawrence memento. Expressing his gratitude,MrMichaelcongratulated Rev.Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza for successfully completing the renovation of the church with the support of generous benefactors. He shared that the church is a sacred place where the faithful gathertopray,andwiththehelp of all donors, a beautiful and spacious house of God has been built. He addedthatwhateverweoffertothe Church, God returns to us a hundredfold.
Soon after the Mass, all the Confirmation children, donors, and sponsors joined the procession along with the Bishop and priests, walkingtotheopenchurchgrounds
for the felicitation programme. The programme commenced with a prayer song. Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza welcomed the gathering, thanked the donors for their generous presence, and congratulated the children who received the Sacrament of Confirmation. Out of the 90 children, three exceptionally gifted students were felicitated by the Bishop with flower bouquets for beingwitnessesofChrist.
Sr Jennifer, the catechism teacher who prepared the children for the sacrament,calleduponallthenewly confirmed candidates. Bishop Most Rev. Dr Robert then handed over the Confirmation certificates and a rosary to each child. The boys holdingwhiteballoonsandthegirls holding yellow balloons stood on the stage and released them into the air, followed by the release of whitepigeonsasasymbolofpeace. The children then sang the thanksgiving hymn, joined by the parish clergy, Vice President Mr John D’Silva, and Secretary Mr Santhosh Misquith of the Parish PastoralCouncil.
Childrenwhosecuredhighmarksin catechism were honoured by the
Bishop with a memento. Jessica D’Souza shared her heartfelt experience on behalf of the 90 children, expressing her joy in receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation and thanking all the teachers who guided and prepared them.
The main sponsors, donors who contributed materials, and all benefactors who donated ₹1 lakh and above were felicitated by Bishop Robert with a St Lawrence memento as a token of gratitude and love. Bishop Robert Miranda himselfwasfelicitatedbytheparish clergy, the Vice President, and the Secretary of the PPC with a shawl, memento, fruits, and a flower bouquet.
In his message, Bishop Robert congratulatedtheParishPriest,Rev. FrAndrewLeo D’Souza,thedonors, and the parishioners for building a
beautiful church and for their warm felicitation. Addressing the confirmed children, he encouraged them to remain attentive to God’s call or any field of life and to be true witnesses of Christ and examples of good Christian living. Heurgedthefaithfultoprayforthe Diocese of Gulbarga and for missionariesacrosstheworld.
Mr John D’Silva, Vice President of the Parish Pastoral Council, deliveredthevoteofthanks.Rev.Fr Peter Gonsalves blessed the meal, and Bishop Robert extended his blessings to everyone gathered. Dinnerandicecreamwereservedto all, and Mr Ronald Lasrado lifted everyone’s spirits with his soulful singing.
a student of Class VIII A, has broughtlaurelstotheinstitutionby winning two gold medals at the CBSE National Level Skating ChampionshipheldfromNovember 13 to 16 at HSV Global School, Gurugram. He secured this top positioninboththe500mRinkRace andtheOneLapRoadRace. ThePrincipalandStaffcongratulate Yuvaraj on this outstanding achievement and wish him continuedsuccess.
First ever Konkani feast Mass at Heathrow Airport
Iampleasedtoannounceortellyou thatforthefirsttimeeveraKonkani Mass will be held to celebrate St. Francis Xavier feast (Patron of Goa/ India) at St George chapel at HeathrowAirportLondon. The Eucharist Mass will be held on 3rdDecat14:00hrs.LT.
Hope youwillgiveus due coverage in your esteemed magazine which has large following among Konkani orKonkanispeakingdiaspora.
