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RayanMagneto:TheNew Powerhouse ofKonkaniCinema
From the arts to technology and business, the coastal towns of Karnataka have continually inspired individuals who think ahead and breaknewground.
In the Indian entertainment industry, a noticeable shift is taking place: beyond the glitz and grandeurofmainstream Bollywood, regional cinema is steadily emerging as one of the country’s most dynamic storytelling powerhouses. In recent years, Tulu andKonkanifilmshaveexperienced remarkable growth. This surge can be credited to increasingly supportive audiences and a rising appreciation for narratives that celebrate local culture, everyday experiences, and grassroots realities. With the industry thriving more than ever, Rayan Fernandes hasquicklybecomeoneofthemost recognizable and talked-about young talents in the contemporary regionalcinema.
Rayan Fernandes, popularly known as Rayan Magneto, gained huge
fame among Konkani speakers in South Canara for his comedy movie LuckyDraw777whichwasoriginally released in 2023. He gained recognitionforhismultifacetedrole as a director, writer, producer, and editor.
Lucky Draw 777, a comedy film produced under Rayan Magneto FilmsandTrendingShield.Thestory revolvesaroundthreefriendswhose lives take an unexpected turn when they win a lucky draw. However, beforetheycanclaimtheirprize,the winning ticket mysteriously goes missing. This sets off a chain of chaotic, funny, and often tense situationsasthefriendsscrambleto
find the ticket while blaming and doubting one another. Through its light-hearted storytelling, the film notonlyexploreshumangreedand how people can change in the face of sudden fortune but also touches on certain social issues in a gentle, humorous way. “Lucky Draw 777” had its international premiere on January 28, 2024, in Mississauga, Canada.
Due to limited funding and the smaller budgets, it often restricts the use of advanced filmmaking techniques, but Rayan & his team has put great efforts to bring a decent comedy movie in Lucky Draw 777 to the Mangalorean Konkanispeakingaudience.
The success of ‘Lucky Draw 777’ led to the release of a standalone sequel, Fondacho Misther,’ in 2025. The film introduced a fresh cast while also bringing back a few beloved actors from the original to reprise their roles. Set in a quiet village during a funeral, the story unfolds through a mix of comedic and dramatic moments. By combining humor with heartfelt situations, the film delivers an engaging experience that balances laughterandemotion.
The film's marketing campaign was executed with vibrant enthusiasm and strategic flair by the team. Backed by community-rooted corporationslikeLeksaLightingand MCC Bank, adds an extra layer of significance to the film’s journey to the big screen. It was also a proud moment for Leksa Lighting to have been entrusted with the prestigious project of permanently illuminating the iconic Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru,Karnataka.
A special mention to Dr. Melwyn Pernal who didn’t just write all the songs but even improvised the dialogues and handled the whole production from start to finish. The film’s release has also been greatly supported by philanthropist Michael D’Souza, whose contributionshavebeeninvaluable.
The success of ‘Fondacho Misther’ exceeded all expectations. While it became a massive hit in Coastal Karnataka, the film also gained widespread recognition among the Konkani-speaking diaspora across the world, including the GCC countries, Australia, the USA, Canada, and various European nations.
In conversation with him, Rayan Magnetocomesacrossasahumble and dedicated BSc graduate. The sonofRoniandMollyFernandes,he hails from Kirem and stands as one of the key driving forces behind Trending Shield, where he contributes as a writer, director, and frequent actor in their creative productions.
TrendingShieldisacreativecomedy groupthatproducesdigitalcontent that mainly sketch comedy and short films on YouTube. Since its launch in 2017, the channel has experienced steady growth,
garnering a dedicated and everexpandingaudience.
Rayan Magneto, Kelvin Saldanha (Kellam) and Leston Nazareth (Lestu)form theimmenselypopular trio where their videos in the Trending Shield have garnered widespreadadmiration,notonlyfor their creativity but also for their impeccable comedic timing. The way they effortlessly deliver humor, engage with their audience, and craft memorable content has made them a beloved favorite among viewers,leavingalastingimpression witheveryperformance.
After the success of Fondacho Misther, Rayan Magneto is busy shooting for his untitled third venture RMO3. After two incredible successes, the audience’s enthusiasm has reached new heights as they look forward to the thirdfilm. *****************
My dear SiSterS and BrotherS
The statement mydearSistersand Brothersis associated with Swami Vivekananda. Swami was 30 years
old when he attends the World Congress of Religions at Chicago (US)in1893.Bornon12Jan1863he diedon4July1902attheageof39 years, by that time he had made a name for himself. He toured the entire country and gave the slogan AriseAwakeandStopNot.It was time of the freedom struggle. He had met Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and had a close encounter with him and his yogic powers. He later joined the RamakrishanparamahamsaMission or Ramakrishna Mission (RKM). There is one branch of the RKM at NandiguddainMangalore.
Writing for Daiji Media, John B. Monteiro has the following to say about the building.
“Most Mangalorean’s have heard of Morgan Gate because many city
buses start or touch this landmark south of Jeppu. But not many know of Morgan Bungalow, located on a seven-acre estate, close to Mangaladevi Temple. That is because J H Morgan, tile manufacturer and plantation produce processor and exporter, wholeftIndiain1947,isnowpartof forgotten history. But Morgan Tiles stillprotect MorganBungalowfrom sun and rain. The stately building with a large central hall and wide verandah now houses the Mangaluru branch of Ramakrishna Mission, headquartered at Belur, West Bengal. After Ramakrishna (1836 – 1886) passed away in August 1886, a monastic order bearing his name was organized by his Monks headed by Swami Vivekananda. Ramakrishna Math was registered as a trust in 1901, and Ramakrishna Mission, registered as a society in 1909, are closely related with both having theirheadquartersatBelur. The Mangaluru Branch was started by Swami Vimalanandaji in 1947, thanks to the initiative of Rao Bahadur Keshav Pai. It started
functioning from a rented house at Lalbagh. In the 1940s, Sowkar Venkatesh Pai started a Balakashram for the benefit of poor children of the community by providing free boarding lodging. This work was later done under an organization called Hindu Seva Sang. The Sowkar Ranga Venkatesh PaiTrustboughtandgiftedMorgan Bungalow and its compound to Ramakrishna Mission on August 11, 1951, in memory of Sowkar M Ranga Pai, adoptive father of VenkateshPai.
The essence of Ramakrishna Mission’s philosophy pivots the importance of individual people. As is prominently written under Swami Vivekananda’s statue on the campus, “Each soul is potentially divine”. The efforts should be to manifest this divinity in oneself by controllingnature.
Recently, INTACH Mangalore Chapter organized a photo exhibition of Bungalows of Mangalore at the Kodialaguthu Bhavan near Janata Deluxe. For the sake of those who don’t know this place it is near the Dr T. M. A. Pai Convention Centre. I will attend eachtalkandprogrammeorganized
by INTACH. INTACH means Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage. The exhibition of the photographs of Mangalorean Bungalows was inaugurated by Ronald Gomess, President of the CASK. I was found that most of the Bungalows showcased were owned by Christians or once owned by Christians. E.g. The Thimmappa Restaurant building near Bharat Mall belonged to Barrister John JosephChrysostom.Bythe1940’sit was sold to the Ganesh Beedi. The Chrysostom family remain unclear. Interior of the renovated restaurant isasgivenbelow:
InterioroftheRestaurant; Bungalowbelowportraitfrom Exhibition
I had got the INTACH Bangalore to renovate the 150-year-old office of Chief Postmaster General of Karnataka when I was the Chief Postmaster General. CPMG Karnatakaisthetopmostpostofthe Postal Department in Karnataka. This building, known as Beaulieu, belonged to Mr. Lancelot Rickets. When serving as the CPMG Karnataka, my chamber was in this majestic building. Many mistakenly think that CPMG sits in Bangalore GPO.
Beaulieu" is a French term meaning "beautiful place," which can refer to many things, including a French surname,aplacename,orapopular attraction like the National Motor Museum in Hampshire, England.It is composed of the Old French words "beau" (beautiful) and "lieu" (place).So, the office is a beautiful place according to the owner. Mr. LancelotRickets.wasanagricultural officer in the Government of Maharaja of Mysore. The building was built in the 1860’s. It was on a 24-acreestate.OntheSouthernside there is the Radisson Blu Hotel (which was earlier Hotel Atria) and at the southern corner is the KPSC building.OntheSouthernsideisthe Printing technology building and the CRE building. There was no policy regarding maintaining such old brick and mortar buildings through INTACH. I boldly took the decisionandformedacommitteeof Departmental architect, civil engineers of the department and other officers to ensure there is transparency in decision making and responsibility for the decision and execution was on all. The team didawonderfuljob.Thecommittee ensured that the audit does not
point out that CPMG took an arbitrary decision for personal gain etc.Thatisquitedangerousandcan ruin one’s career. I was shrewd enough to do this as I had seen officers getting into trouble for not following procedures and had matured to know how to bend the rules if not break them. Two years after my retirement in 2021, the Department of Posts issued an official order approving INTACH as the official agency for maintaining heritage buildings. I was proved right.
The INTACH does not use cement if the building is a brick-and-mortar building of old type. They prepared the mix with lime, bilva fruit, eggs and many other things and allowed this mix to remain like that for several days. The entire mix starts giving bad smell and then they use that for plastering and repairing. This mix is prepared on the spot. INTACHhasretainedthisoldsystem because they are conservation experts. The Civil engineers use cement for patch work and within a year a bigger chunk of the plaster falls off because cement cannot blend with brick and mortar. Once the maintenance is done by
INTACH, the building can live for another 100 years.They change the wood used in the building and replace it with best quality wood and give the same design to windows and doors as in the original.Althoughabigexpensive,it is worth it and long lasting. I interacted with the labour and foundthattheywerefromDharwad where the locals still use this technology. They were working underthesupervisionofINTACH.As I had done one stint in Dharwad earlier (2004-2008) I could speak to them in their own dialect (boli) of Kannadawhichmadethemhappy. It is advisable to use INTACH to maintain our old brick and mortar churches for them to long last. St Aloysius College Chapel paintings were conserved and maintained by INTACH. The painting which has become a postal stamp is given below. India's Department of Posts releasedacommemorativestampin 2001 to mark the centenary of the paintings in the St. Aloysius College Chapel in Mangalore on 21 January 2001. It is Rs. 15 denomination stamps.Thepictureshowsablockof four.
Beaulieu was built by the Bangalore born Britisher, George Lancelot William Ricketts, a civil servant, in the 1860s, patterned as a palace of 13th century in his hometown Hampshire in England. Nostalgic about his ancestral hometown’s palace, Lancet named the building
as 'Beaulieu' composed by two French words — beau (meaning beautiful) and lieu (meaning place). The Beaulieu, now a heritage building,whenbuiltin1860s,wasin a lush green estate of 24 acres and 12gunthas.Apartfromthebuilding there were farms, flocks of sheep in the sheep sheds and agricultural fields in its estate growing rice, potatoes and sea island cotton in addition to a rich variety of trees. The builder of this elegant edifice, Lancelot Ricketts, was born in Bangalorein1832andwasbaptized intheCityonSeptember20,1832. He became a civil servant in the administration of the government oftheMaharajainMysoreKingdom. He held positions as judge in the Court of Small Causes, Deputy Commissioner, the first Inspector General of Police in Mysore State, Inspector General of Forests and Plantations, and founder-editor of theMysoreGazette(publishedboth in Kannada and English); Lancet learned Kannada so well that he became the first editor of Mysore Gazette in 1866. He was the InspectorGeneralinthedepartment of forests in 1889, before retiring in 1900. Lancelot Ricketts sold
'Beaulieu'on 25 August1900tothe Mysore royal family. It was bought by the then Dewan of Mysore (Sir TRA Thumboo Chetty) on behalf of Princess Jaya Lakshammanni, eldest daughter of Chamaraja Wodeyar X. During the World War II, British Army had briefly occupied the property free of any rent. Over the years, the property was owned by many entities and the house itself changed hands; portions of this Estate have been acquired by the erstwhile State of Mysore, both before and after independence. Today, the land patch is very small where the 'Beaulieu’, the office of the Chief Postmaster General, Karnataka Circle stands. Rest of the land is taken away by the Government for the construction of MS Building, Vikasa Soudha, GovernmentPolytechnicetc.
Beaulieu, located on Palace Road, next to Cubbon Park, has elegant flat arched entrance porches on all sides. It has both striking sloping roofs and flat roofs with decorative parapets at different levels. At its groundfloorfaciatherearetwobay windows. Projecting windows providedwithpedimentswithsmall, embellished brackets and slender
cast iron colonettesare seen on the first floor. The entrance porch with sweeping driveway leads to verandah along the front, defined by flat arches springing from twincolumns. The Verandah is flanked by two large halls or typically with high ceilings as in old bungalows. Featuresseeninoldphotographsof the building which show barge boards with some incredibly ornamental, unusual fretwork are now missing. The decorative ridge tiles along the roof tops are also missing. However, the dentilled cornices,thecircularwindowsinthe gables,andthemoldingsabovethe rectangular ventilators are still distinctive. The heritage building has been restored to its old sheen by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH). (https://www.facebook.com/groups /oldbangalore/posts/49999729066 84186/(FromRaviKhanolkar) picturefromsideangle
Inthosedaystherewasonlythered building of Attara Kacheri which is today the High Court of Karnataka. Due to shortage of space, another buildingofthesamesizewasputup and attached to the then exiting buildingandadditionalcourtrooms were created. On southern side is Cubbon Park. The High court occupies a portion of the Cubbon Park. To the east lies the KGID building and the beautiful Bangalore GPO. On the rear side is theVidhanaSoudhawhichwasbuilt by Kengal Hanumanthaiah after Independence and creation of State of Mysore. There is no other majesticlegislativebuildinginIndia.
Sri Narayana Guru of Varkala, (Kerala) was met by Mahatma Gandhi during his visit to Kerala in 1925. They had a long chat on removal of social evils on which front Sri Narayana Guru had done remarkable work. Rajagopalachari, Devadas Gandhi, Mahadeva Desai and others met the Guru at Sivagiri. Sivagiri is the name of a hill in the Varkala Municipal area of Thiruvananthapuram. Varkala is the place where the Samadhi of Narayana Guru is found. Sivagiri is the hill where he used to spend his
time and later built a temple of Sharada.SharadaorSaraswatiisthe Goddess of Learning. The main purposeofselectingSharadawasto emphasize the importance of educationforthecommunity. HedeviatedfromtheTemplevasthu and built a small temple full of windows. The traditional Hindu temples have a specific architecture like the Garbhagriha, pradakshina patha, entrance flanked by elephants, shikara, vahana, etc. The garbhagriha is surrounded by the pradakshinapathaandanouterwall. Garbha Gudi is not visible if you stand outside. The Sharada temple built by Narayana Guru is different because it has windows on the wall and there is no outer wall. It does nothaveapondortempletank(e.g. seven tanks of Kadri Manjunatheshwaratemple)whichis essential feature of a Hindu temple. There is no pooja to worship but only singing of hymns. He advocated building schools attached to the Temple to educate theBillavas(thetoddytappers)who weretreatedasbelongingtoalower casteanduntouchable.
When the followers of Narayana Guru wanted to create a place of
pilgrimage for his followers, they went to him to seek his permission. They proposed that Sivagiri should become the place of pilgrimage for his followers. He permitted it. Then theyaskedhimwhatkindofclothes they should wear while on pilgrimage. The Moslems wear white clothes while going on Haj. The Ayyappa devotees wear black colour clothes. White clothes are used by Grihastas and Khavi (saffron) colour is used by the sanyasis. Therefore, he ruled out these colours and told them that theycanwearYellowcolourclothes. HesaidthisisthecolourofBuddha. He told them not to waste money on clothes of yellow colour silk cloth. He said just dipping white clothinturmericissufficient. He advised them not to waste money on festivals, firecrackers and rituals. They should not do elaborate preparation but follow Buddha’s five principles (Pancha Dharma)purityofbody,mind,word and deed for 10 days. Thus, Sri Narayana Guru is like an avatar of Buddha. Buddha is followed by SC converts to Buddhism. Conversion of billavas to Buddhist principles by Sri Narayana Guru is a great
landmarkachievement.
During the pilgrimage days he ordered to arrange discourses on education, cleanliness, devotion, building organizations of the community, agriculture, trade, skill development, and adoption of technology. Induecourse,women’s emancipation and industrialization werealsoincluded.
Janardhana Poojary who belonged toBillava(Ezhava)community,inhis autobiography Saalamelada Sangrama has narrated the influenceofNarayanaGuruand untouchability faced by him in childhoodinMannagudddaarea ofMangalore.
His parents were living in the house of Ismail Sab in Bokkapatna as a tenant. There were two rooms and one verandah. His father was an employee of Krishna Mill of Bunder. Mother was also working in the same Mill, and they used to walk to the Mill from Bokkapatna. He had only one chaddi and one top cloth (angi) but had no shirt. He used to go to school without a shirt. His father was a tenant of Narikombu Venkatarao and the land was at Maroli (Nantoor). They would have lost the land but for a court case
which went upto the High court of Madras. Dogra Poojary, one of his fathers’relativeswasrunningahotel at Sultan Batteri. His father wanted him to become an IAS officer. He became an advocate. His father’s relatives were at Marakada. From Bokkapatna to Marakada it was 17 miles, and they used to walk this distance. Mr. Victor Dsouza, a teacher at St. Aloysius college encouraged him. While working in the State Bank of India branch at Matunga (Mumbai) he came across a Swamiji he foretold many things. He was told that his father would die, that he would be a great advocate, on a specific date after 2 months he would pass the LLB examination,hewillbecomeagreat man and become a Minister. Salary inSBIwas justRs94/-. He gota job offer from Tata Faison and salary wasRs2000.Beforehecouldaccept it, he received a telegram of his father’s critical condition. After coming to Mangalore, he joined as junior under Adv. Mahabala. They were working under A. P Shankar Ava in the Bar Council he secured second rank. His father died on the datepredictedbytheSwamiji.Asan advocate he fought for landless
under the land to the tiller policy of the government. At the age of 38 Indira Gandhi gave him ticket to become an MP. In 1991 he lost election and it was due to the HindutvawavesaysPoojary.Hewas instrumental in the construction of Billava Bhavana on Bannerghatta RoadinBangaloreandhadusedhis political connections to achieve it. DuringSaalMela(loanMela)hewas stabbed in Tamil Nadu. They also shouted slogans like go Back Poojary.
FacingUntouchability
At Bokkapatna attached to the school ground was our rented house.Nowithasbeendemolished.
On the other side was a big compound of about 10-12 acres and was known as Marappa compound. Beyond the lane was the house of my friend, Gratian Patrao. On the way to his house therewasawell.Itwasabout60feet deep and belonged to a Brahmin. HewasmanagerintheMunicipality. Once I touched the wall of the well. ThiswasseenbytheBrahminowner, andtheycursedmeforpollutingthe water in the well. They emptied them well. How can the water be polluted by touching its wall, I
wondered. After 2 days I again touched the wall. They emptied the well a second time. They also complained to my father. But my father told them that the water is not accessible to the hand, and he cannot pollute it. The third time I touched the wall, and they emptied thewellathirdtime.Itoucheditfor the fourth time. But this time they gaveupanddidnotemptythewell. NoGodorTemple forBillavas “For us Billavas there was no God. WewerenotallowedtolookatGod. It was reserved for upper castes. Sri Narayana Guru started the Kudrolli Gokarnanatha temple exclusively fortheBillavas.KeshavaMijarasked Sri Narayana Guru as what tis the solution for social evils and untouchability.TheGurtoldthemto construct the Temple, and he will visitit.In1908theGurucametosee the selected land. He laid the foundation stone. By 1912, a small, tiled temple was ready. The Guru came and inaugurated it. The Guru toldthemto get educated,livewith unity. Religions can be many, but God is one. We all one that Gods children were his message. In 1989 it was decided to construct a new majestictemplecostingaboutRs60
lakhs. At that time Poojary was a Minist.er in the Union Government. But the money required was not secured. One day when he was making a campaign in Dakshina Kannada, a man in tattered clothes cametodaisandoffered5paise.He enquired if they would take 5 paise. Poojary received the 5 paise. The man walked away and was not found. Poojary asked to search to identifythisman.Hewasnotfound. Oneofthemenintheaudiencesaid he was Lord Shiva. It was matter of faith but without any proof. From that day money flowed like water and the temple was inaugurated in 1991.
Poojary says that he does not believe that that man was Lord shiva. But the miracle must be believed.Hemadeanewbeginning by appointing Widows as archakas inthetemple.Itwasarevolutionary step.Itcontinuestothisday.Healso started the Mangaluru Dasara at Kudrolli Gokarnatheshwara. For the firstinIndiaalltheNavadurgaswere installed at Kudrolli. It broke the caste system. In 2013 the washed the feet of Anasuya a SC woman in the presence of Gokarnanatheshwara. He provided
funds for the renovation and restoration of Koti Chennaya holy landsatPanja-Enmaaru. In our childhood days all communities, Christian, Muslim, Hindu were living in harmony. All communities used to cooperate during marriage and other functions. RSS started to divide people, and they are making great mistakes. No true religion can createfearamongpeople.
RoleofSri NarayanaGuru
Thus,intheemancipationofBillavas of Mangalore Sri Narayana Guru had an important role. He gave them message and helped to build their own temple so that they need not go to temples where they were not allowed on grounds of untouchability. The Circle near the Victoria School (Lady Hill) has been named after him and a bust has been installed. In 2024-25 the visit of Mahatma Gandhi to Sivagiri is being commemorated. Mahatma wasinKeralatotakepartinViacom Satyagraha on March 9 and 10 in 1925. On March 4 and 5, 1924 Narayana guru organized a World region congress at Kerala. Pope FrancisdidnotinviteNarayanaGuru monks to Rome; instead, monks
from theSivagiri Mutt visited the Vatican to hold a conference in November 2024. The interreligious conference was organized by the Sivagiri Mutt to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first "All Religions Conference" hosted by SreeNarayanaGuruin1924.During the event, Pope Francis delivered a speech praising Narayana Guru'smessageofuniversalunity and condemning religious intolerance. **
When I was the Regional Director National Commission for SC and ST in Karnataka the SC boys would
come with complaints against barberssayingtheyrefusetocutthe hair of the SC boys. They would insist and then the upper castes would attack them and would impose social boycotts, denying employment. Due to the consequences I used to tell the SC boysstartyourownair-conditioned saloons with the fund given by the government. Make them so attractive even the upper castes should feel like coming. In fact, in the cities, it is not possible to identify the Sc from the rest, and anybody can go to any saloon irrespective of ownership. Perhaps Sri Narayana Gur gave the right solutionofnotgivingimportanceto the Gods and temples of upper castes and by ignoring them one can earn self-respect. In some ways I too followed the same during my stintinthecommission. **
A Note on Advent & Christmas
On the 23rd of November 2025 we celebrated with great devotion and joytheSolemnFeastofJesusChrist, the King of the Universe. In many diocesesmanyfaithful,religiousand clergyfromdifferentparishesofthe Diocese took part in the annual Corpus Christi Procession publicly manifesting their faith in Christ the King. The Blessed Sacrament was taken in procession in a tastefully decorated jeep, while people recited prayers, rosary and sang hymns manifesting their faith, love and devotion to the Eucharistic Lord.
The Feast of Christ the King is celebrated on the Last Sunday of the Ordinary time during the liturgicalyear.TheSundayfollowing it ushers in a new season in the liturgical calendar of the Church,
namelyAdvent.Thisyeartheseason ofAdventbeganon30th November. The season of Advent is a special time of grace when we prepare ourselves for the great Feast of Christmas, the Birthday of Jesus Christ,ourdivineSaviour.
AnyBirthdayisamatterofgreatjoy and happiness, not only for the person celebrating it but also for his/her relatives and friends. But Christmas is a unique Birthday, unparalleled in human history. No other person in human history except Jesus Christ has this unique distinction of his Birthday being celebrated all over the world. There would hardly be any country in the world, where Christmas would not becelebrated.Atleastinsomeparts of every single country the joy and happiness of Christmas is experienced. Christmas is a universal feast, because the Lord Jesus Christ is the Lord of the Universe. He is not limited to any race or time or place, even though when he was born as a human being, he was born as a Jew in
Palestineabout 2025yearsago. But as Son of God, he transcends all territory,timeandspace.
This great feast celebrates the Birthday of God incarnate. It is a feast of God’s love and humility. “ForGodsolovedtheworldthathe gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish buthaveeternallife”(Jn3:16).AsSt. Paul puts it, “Though he (Jesus) was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form he humbled himself and became obedientuntodeath,evendeathon thecross”.(Phil2:6-8)
The Son of God humbled himself and became man being born of a woman, in a manger, in abject
poverty. St. Luke tells us that there was no place for him in the inn (cf. Lk 2:7). St. John tells us that “he cametohisownhome,andhisown peoplereceivedhimnot”.(Jn1:11)
That is the tragedy of human beings.Godcomesintoourworldin human form, and we do not recognize him. He comes as light and we prefer darkness. To recognizehimweneedhumilityand simplicity of the shepherds, the enduring search of the Magi, the deep faith of Joseph and the Fiat of Mary.
May Advent be a time of true spiritual preparation so that we do not miss the Lord in our Christmas. Let the external celebration be moderate but spiritual celebration intense. Let us share the joy and happiness of Christmas with one andall,especiallywiththepoorand needy, for he became poor and identifieshimselfwiththem.Advent and Christmas Season are most fitting times to practice mercy and charity.
On 28th of December we will conclude the Jubilee Year with a
Solemn Eucharist in all Cathedrals. The theme for the Jubilee Year was “PilgrimsofHope”.Eventhoughthe Jubilee Year will be concluded on 28th December, our journey as pilgrimsofhopecontinuesifweare here on earth. Let us then live as true pilgrims of hope till the end of our lives. Advent is a time of expectation and hope. Christmas is a joyful celebration. Let hope and joyguideourlivestilltheend.
I wish you a Grace-filled Christmas andaPeacefulNewYear.
†GeraldJohn Mathias Bishop ofLucknow
Siddu-DKS truce breaks ‘November Revolution’
Gabriel Vaz
After the “Operation Kamala” to engineer defections from the then ruling H D Kumaraswamy-led Congress-JDScoalitiongovernment resulted in its collapse in 2019 and BJP’s Lingayat strongman B S Yediyurappa grabbed power in July 2019 through the backdoor, who had to make way for S R Bommai within a year, the Congress party bounced back to power under the combined leadership of the then Opposition leader Siddaramaiah and State party president D K Shivakumar in the 2023 assembly polls.
The joint electoral campaign by the duo of Siddu-DKS, as both leaders are known, plus the continued propaganda against the alleged 40% Commission in government contracts and other corruption charges under BJP rule along with the attractive promises of five Guarantees are believed to be the reason for the massive mandate received by the Congress party.
However,theambitionofboth the leaders to occupy the coveted post of Chief Ministership resulted in a deadlock of sorts as both sides remained adamant for days together. Finally, the impasse over
leadership was resolved by the intervention of Congress high command, the euphemism for the key status of Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and AICC President MallikarjunaKharge,inDelhi.
HighCommandBrokeredDeal
Thanks to the deal reportedly broke by the party high command, Siddaramaiah was sworn formally sworn in as CM and Shivakumar as his Deputy CM along with key portfolios of Irrigation or Water Resources and Bengaluru development in addition to his positionasKPCCChief,inMay2023.
What transpired in the closeddoor parleys between the two contenders and party’s top brass in Delhiwasnotmadeknownpublicly, even though it was widely rumoured that the two will share power halfway through the term. Though media reported these claims, nobody has officially confirmednordeniedthem.
Now, with the Siddaramaiah government completing two and half years of its term on November 20, inspired stories based on inputs from rival camps started surfacing
and the ruling party circles in the State were agog with speculations over the impending “November Revolution” to bring about changes ingovernmentaswellasStateparty leadership.
ItmustberecalledthatSiddu’s loyalist supporters including Minister K N Rajanna, who had to resign over his controversial statement contradicting Rahul Gandhi on “vote theft” in August this year, as also Siddu’s son Dr Yatindra and others, claiming that CM will complete his term, while D K Suresh, younger brother of DKS, andothersupporterspressedahead fortransferofpower.
Key Contenders
During this tussle for leadership, Public Works Minister and an influential Scheduled Tribe leader from the Valmiki community from Belagavi district publicly started airing his demand for change in party leadership if he is not considered for the top slot. Former KPCC President and Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara, who belongs to Dalit Scheduled Caste community,aswellasformerUnion MinisterandFoodandCivilSupplies
MinisterKHMuniyappa,whoisalso an SC, were among the prominent candidates who threw their hats in thering.
Not content with the mere expression of support, legislators owingallegiancetoboththeleaders flew to Delhi to lobby with the Central party leaders. Both leaders, however, remained tight-lipped, escalatingtheconfusion.
With the winter sessions of both State legislature scheduled to be held in Belagavi and parliament session in Delhi, the tussle for leadership in Karnataka turned out tobeathornyknotfortheCongress bosses. If the feud was allowed to continue, it was obvious that the partyintheStatewouldbeplunged intodeepabyss.
Imponderables Before High Command
The Karnataka imbroglio that was simmering for over a year and startedgettingtoosevereinthelast couple of weeks, especially with open discussion in media circles over the impending “November Revolution,” the Delhi bosses had no other alternative but to step in
and amicably resolve the crisis quickly.
As Siddu has had the privilege of serving as CM for long and DKS proving his loyalty to the party despitethetravailsofprobesbyCBI and Enforcement Directorate (ED) and even arrest imprisonment in Tihar Jail for 50 days in disproportionate assets case till his release on bail and his much acclaimed organizational skills, the Congress high command was faced with the dilemma of untying the Gordian knotwithout hurtingeither contenders and thereby saving the imageoftheparty.
GivenSiddu’smassappeal and ability to woo the rural people with his rustic humour and wide popularity among the sections of AHINDA (Kannada acronym for Alpasankyata or minority mainly
Muslims accounting for roughly 17%, Hindulida or backward classes estimated as 70% of people in the StateandDalitscomprisingSCsand STsaccountingfornearly23to25% of population), he is considered indispensable from the electoral point of view. He also enjoys a rather clean image barring the recent controversy over the allotmentofsitesbyMUDA(Mysore Urban Development Authority) to his wife Parvathy, in which both Siddu and his wife have been exonerated of any wrongdoing. As thesiteswereallottedwhenBJPwas inpowerandleadersfromboth BJP and JDS were MUDA members, the controversy has not really dented hisimage.
Apartfromhishugepopularity among his Vokkaliga community that is dominant in the Old Mysore region, exceptional organizational acumen and trouble-shooting capabilitiesnotjustinKarnatakabut in other States as well, and his unquestioned loyalty to party, mainly the Gandhi family, DKS is most certainly indispensable. The imponderablesbeforetheCongress high command were too critical to bebrushedaside.
While Siddu is 77 and suffers from recurring knee pain and other minor age-related ailments, 63year-old DKS – is considered relatively young in view of large numberofleadersintheirseventies andeveneightiesrulingtheroostin differentpartiesalloverthecountry -enjoysgoodhealth.Heisalso aninvaluableassettotheparty.
Thus, the Congress top brass was left with no alternatives but to intervene and strike a compromise between Siddu and DKS without antagonizingthe other claimants as any one-sided solution would be a disaster. Naturally, the Congress high command’s intervention enabled a truce! Consequently, the much talked about “November Revolution” fizzled out without leavinganyharmfulfallout.
Breakfast StrategyforTruce!
The strategy for breaking the deadlock over the tussle for leadership was a signal from AICC General Secretary and State party in-charge K C Venugopal, obviously on the orders of the party high command, and arrived at a truce between Siddu and DKS was asking
both leaders to hold breakfast meetings.
While Siddu was the first to break the ice by inviting DKS to his official Cauvery residence for breakfast comprising Idli-Vada and Upma on last Friday – perhaps to end the so-called “November Revolution,” DKS has reciprocated by inviting CM to his official residence in posh Sadashivanagar onTuesday.
Both leaders have vowed to maintainunityandunitedlyfacethe likely onslaught of the opposition BJP-JDS during the Belagavi legislature session and face next year’s elections to urban and rural local bodies and prepare for the crucial2028assemblypollswiththe aim of returning to power. They have also declared their resolve to face the 2029 Lok Sabha polls and comeoutontop.
Even though the “November Revolution” has fizzled out without causinganydamageandtheduoof Siddu-DKS have proclaimed the unity mantra, it is not clear whether the Congress high command orderedtrucewillbedurableforthe long-term or fail. It is difficult to predict whether the forced truce signals a lull before the impending storm.
However, going by the whispered claims by the party insiders, Siddu might probably wait till April and hand over the reins to DKS. According to party insiders, is that Siddu will be breaking the record set by former chief minister D Devaraj Urs in ruling the State as CM for 2,792 days during the periods of 1972-77 and 1978-80 on January 7, 2026, at 2,793 days considering his tenure from 201318 and 2023-26. In addition, he will becreatinganotherenviablerecord ofpresentingthehighestnumberof 17 budgets in the entire country whentheState’sbudgetfortheyear 2026-27 ispresented in February or March. These two records are unlikely to be broken at least soon and evidently Siddu wants to quit
probablyinAprilafterachievingthe records!
Assuming the change of power in Karnatakatakesplaceasclaimedby party insiders, DKS will have nearly
two years to rule as Chief Minister before the 2028 assembly elections perhaps with a couple of Deputy Chief Ministers from the Lingayat, Dalit or OBCs and minorities to make it all inclusive without any adverse repercussions from any the prominentsections.Incidentally,the State party is likely to have a new set-up possibly with Satish Jarakiholi as KPCC Chief from the North Karnataka region either simultaneouslyorseparately.
‘Givethanksforalittleandyouwill findalot’
Thanksgiving is celebrated on a different day depending on the country, but in its primary observanceintheUnitedStates,itis always the fourth Thursday of November. They celebrate by having big meal together with their family.Americanseatmorefood on thanksgiving than on any other day of the year. The date changes every year, but it always falls between November 22 and November 28. In 2025, Thanksgiving was celebrated onThursday,November27andwas declared national holiday for a week. In Indian we do not have particulardateforthanksgiving.But at the end of the year, we normally do the thanksgiving for all the
for the year 2025
blessings we received throughout theyear.
‘Gratitudeturnswhatwehaveinto enough.’
Arethehappypeoplearegratefulor something about gratitude that make people happy? Thanksgiving is appreciation and expressing our gratitude for all the support. We have so many things to thank and uncountableblessings.
‘ Often,wewonderwhyroseshave thorns.Letusbegratefulthatthorns haveroses.’
Similarly, we always worry and focusontheproblems.Weforgetto enjoyandthankalltheblessingswe
received. We need to thank to the almightyforthisbeautifulgiftoflife, thanks to our parents who brought us up and gave a good life, thanks to our siblings, thanks to our relatives, our friends, neighbours etc……
‘Gratefulnessisthemotherofallthe goodqualities’
Thanksgiving is one of the major qualities of the humanity. Having a grateful mind is a blessing for our family life. There are multiple benefits of Thanksgiving/Gratitude areasfollows.
1)Generates Happy Hormones and youwillbeinhappymoodalways.
2)Providesspiritualsignificance
3)Givesyougoodsleep
4)ReducesBloodPressure
5)LoweringAnxietyandDepression
6)ConnectsRelationshipandmakes you humble to accept the things andtogive uptheego.
‘Thanksgivingisn’tjustaday.It’sa waywecanliveeveryday’
It is recommended everyone to celebrate the Thanksgiving Day in their home by gathering all the family members together and
expresstheirgratitudetowardseach other by having a meal. This makes ourrelationevenstrongandfirm. It is both a secular and spiritual that strengthensrelationships,promotes humility, and can lead to greater peaceandcontentment.
‘Gratitudeisamemory.’
Always during communication, never forget to say thank you. Often,wetakeitgrantedtheservice and help provided by others. Even though we pay, still the word thank you makes much difference to both theparties.
‘Developanattitudeofgratitude’ Also say thanks to yourselvesThanks for this day, thank you for every moment. Thank you for the hard times, they made me appreciate the good times. Thank you for the lesson, they were needed for my development. Thank you for my eyes that get to witness the miracle of today & tomorrow. ThankyouforeverythingItakeitfor granted. Thank you for all my blessings. Thank you for my strength. Be grateful there is food on the table as many are deprived offood.Airinyourlungs,lifeinyour
body. There are unlimited things to be grateful for in our life. Get grateful for the good health. Thank you is the key that opens the door to instant happiness. It unlocks the door to everything we are really seeking in life. If you sit on a calm place and think on the blessings, youcouldfindplenty.
‘Feeling gratitude and not expressingitislikewrappingagift andnotpresentingit’ Do we grateful only for the good peopleorgoodsituationinourlife?
No. We can be grateful for the bad peopleandthedifficultsituationsin our life also. Due to this, our life became interesting. Imagine all the things you got what you wanted, there are all the people good and nice to you, you didn’t face any tough situations in your life.In such scenario, there is nothing more interesting in the life. But it’s becauseofthebadpeopleandhard situations, our life became very
muchinteresting.Becausethereisa storyforustotell.Thankyouforthe bad people and thanks for giving me the tough times which make to learn how to face the challenges. Giving me the ability to learn patience, compassion and kindness it’s becauseofyoupeople.
AThankfulheartisahappyheart . Always be thankful for the little things even the smallest mountain can hide the most breathtaking views. We should be thankful for everythinginlife. Gratitudehelpsustoseethebeauty ofallthethingsaroundus.Soletus practise this wonderful quality of gratitude.Thank youoneandall.
Rupee Falls to Record Low, Crosses 90 Against
the Dollar for First Time
Thedeclineintherupeecameamid weak trade and portfolio flows, alongwithgrowinguncertaintyover theIndia-UStradedeal.
The currency dropped to a new record low of 90.13 against the US dollar.
NewDelhi:
The Indian rupee fell sharply on Wednesday, slipping past the crucial 90-per-dollar level for the firsttimeever.
The currency dropped to a new record low of 90.13 against the US dollar,breakingitspreviousall-time low of 89.9475 touched just a day earlier.
Thedeclineintherupeecameamid weak trade and portfolio flows, alongwithgrowinguncertaintyover theIndia-UStradedeal. These factors kept the currency
under continuous pressure throughoutthesession.
The sharp fall in the rupee also weighed on domestic equity markets. The Nifty index slipped below the 26,000 mark reflecting cautious sentiment among investors.
TheSensexalsodroppednearly200 points in early trade as the weakeningcurrencyraisedconcerns about inflation and foreign investor activity.
Analysts said that the market mood remained tense as traders watched forsignsofstabilityintherupeeand clarity on trade negotiations between India and the United States.
“The rupee depreciation will halt andevenreversewhentheIndia-US trade deal materialises. This is likely this month. A lot, however, will depend on the details of the tariffs to be imposed on India as part of thedeal,”analystsstated.
Meanwhile, the Indian stock market opened on a quiet note on
Wednesday, with both benchmark indicesshowingminimalmovement inearlytrade.
The Sensex inched up by just 12 points to 85,151, while the Nifty slipped18pointsto26,014.
At the opening bell, shares of HUL, Titan, Tata Motors PV, NTPC, BEL, Trent, Bajaj Finserv, Kotak Bank, Ultratech Cement, Maruti Suzuki, L&T, Power Grid, and ITC were among the top losers in the morningsession.
“A real concern now, which has contributed to the slow drifting
down of the market, is the continueddepreciationintherupee and fears of further depreciation since the RBI is not intervening to supporttherupee,”analystsstated.
“This concern is forcing the FIIs to sell despite the improving fundamentals of rising corporate earnings and strong rebound in GDPgrowth,”theyadded.
(Exceptfortheheadline,thisstory hasnotbeeneditedbyNDTVstaff andispublishedfromasyndicated feed.)
New Book: Understanding Crime, Prison and Forensics" by
Prof. Edmund Frank.
The maiden ‘International Convention of Prison Ministry India (ICPMI)' very positively was opened on October29, 2025, at NESTT, Muvattupuzha, near Ernakulam,Kerala,withtheinspiring theme“Fallen Humans May Rise AgainonWingsofPrayer.”The PMI was born as a prayer group to start with. The inaugural ceremony marked ahistoric milestone inthe
Prof.EdmundJBFrank missionofPMI,reflectingits unwaveringcommitmenttobring faith,rehabilitation,anddignityto thosebehindbars.Itisaspiritual successinIndia.Inhisintroduction,
Rev.Dr.FrancisKodiyanMCBS,CoFounderofPMIandCBCISecretary toPMI,tracedthehumble beginningsofthemovementand highlighteditstransformative impactacrossIndia’sprisonsand
theinmates.Herecalledthe countlessvolunteerswhobrought Christ’scompassiontothemost marginalizedandreaffirmedPMI’s missionofspiritualreliefandsocial reintegrationforprisoners. The eventalsowitnessedthereleaseof severalothersignificant publicationsthat enrichedthe intellectualandspiritual dimensionsoftheconvention. One Bookthatstandsout is UnderstandingCrime,Prisonand ForensicsbyProf.Edmund Frank (ofMangalore)wasreleased
Fr Mathew Koyickal Appointed as the New Deputy Secretary General of CBCI in 2024
by Very Rev. Fr. Mathew Koyickal,and Fr. Varghese K
Karippery,reflectedauniqueaspect of PMI’s holistic mission embracing spirituality, psychology, criminology, and pastoral care. Briefextractsfromthisgreat publication provide a fair overviewforpotentialreaders;let us glance through them here to knowmoreabout this:
Jacintha Correa SCCG Principal St Philomena College Hassan, Karnataka State, On the back cover highlightsontheBook, " Appraisal of the Book and the Author
UNDERSTANDING CRIME, PRISON AND FORENSICS In a world where headlines often sensationalized crime, and stigmatize incarceration, this book Understanding Crime, Prison and Forensics offers a panoramic view of the causes and types of criminal behaviour to the role of forensics in solving crimes, through each stage of the justice process. Apart from making the readers glance through the three vital pillars of the criminal justice system, Police, Prison and Judiciary, this book does more than merely describe the mechanics of crime, it darestoaskdeeperquestions:What drives individuals toward criminal behaviour? What role do police science, forensic science and judiciary play in uncovering the truth — and where are its limits? Whattrulysetsthisbookapartisthe interdisciplinary approach. By weaving together criminological theory,forensicapplication,andthe criminal justice system, it bridges academic knowledge with real-
world relevance. Incidentally, “Understanding Crime, Prison and Forensics” is the 14-book authored by Prof. Edmund Frank, St Aloysius (Deemed to Be University) Mangalore. In 2019 he was appointed Head of the Task Force for the Release of Under Trial Prisoners. An active member of Prison Ministry India, one of Pro. Edmund Frank’s unique and innovative projects is training inmates in the District Prison, Mangalore to bring about a transformationoftheirmindsandto enable them acquire selfemployment skills and sustain themselves and their families with dignity and as law abiding citizens of this country. He is also actively involved in the rehabilitation of released prisoners. Prof. Edmund Frank, recipient of several prestigious awards including the Eminent Aloysian Alumni Award (2022)andtheRachanaAgriculturist of the Year Award (2013), has been named the “Personality of the Month for October 2025” by the Diocesan Konkani weeklyRaknno , inrecognitionofhisresult-oriented, innovative skill development and outreach programmes for inmates
at the District Prison in Mangalore. This honour is especially significant as it comes during the International Jubilee Year proclaimed by Pope Francis, themed “Pilgrims of Hope,” which designates 14 December 2025 as the “Jubilee of Prisoners” a day dedicated to spiritual reflection and renewal for prison inmates. Prof. Edmund Frank’s impactfulworkexemplifies Jubilee’s message of mercy, hope, and humandignity.
The Foreword this book 'Understanding Crime, Prison and Forensics' aligns directly with the International Jubilee Year proclaimed by Pope Francis, themed “Pilgrims of Hope,” which designates 14 December 2025 as the “Jubilee of Prisoners”highlighting the themes of justice, hope and mercy. In a profound and symbolic gesture.This marked the first time in history that a Jubilee Holy Door was opened within a prison, making the moment especiallysignificant.Theactserved as a powerful message to incarcerated individuals, encouragingthemtoembracehope with renewed purpose. In this context, the book’s exploration of
justice, rehabilitation, and human dignity takes on even deeper meaning. This act was a powerful message by Pope Francis to all prisoners, urging them to look toward the future with hope and confidence, and marking the first time that a Jubilees' Holy Door was openedinaprison.Inanagewhere crime and justice intersect technology, psychology, law, and society in increasingly complex ways,theneedforacomprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding these issues has neverbeengreater.“Understanding Crime, Prison and Forensics” by Prof. Edmund Frank is a timely and thoughtful contribution that respondstothisneedwithscholarly depthandpracticalinsight.Drawing fromhisvastexperienceinindustry, academicsandanactivefunctionary in Prison Ministry India, Prof Frank presents a work that is both authoritative and empathetic. Each ofthetwenty-onechaptersisclearly structured to guide readers from students of criminology to professionalsinthejusticesystem throughthemultiplelayersofcrime and its societal responses. Notably, the inclusion of chapters on mental
health, juvenile justice, foreign nationals in prison, -3 and incarcerated mothers speaks to the author’s commitment to highlightingoftenneglectedhuman aspects within the justice framework. Prof. Edmund Frank’s academic grounding from St Aloysius (Deemed to Be University), Mangalore, and his deep involvement in prison reform and pastoral care, lend a rare authenticityandmoralclaritytothis book. His experience with Prison Ministry India resonates strongly in the chapters dealing with rehabilitation, victim support, and thehumanetreatmentofoffenders.
The chapter on Prison Administration calls for more dignified conditions for prisoners and respect for human rights which is in line with Pope Francis’ call for reforms that foster rehabilitation rather than simply punishment. — areas where policy and compassion must work hand in hand. This book is not only academically rigorous but also socially conscious, advocating for a justice system that is as much about restoration as it is about accountability. As his 14th publication, this book reinforces
Prof. Edmund Frank’s reputation as a prolific and passionate scholar committedtosocialreformthrough education and engagement. His writing encourages critical thinking while also emphasizing the ethical responsibilities of those who work within the justice system. The book doesn’t merely inform—it challenges readers to reflect on their role in creating a safer, more justsociety."
For COPIES: "Title of the Book: Understanding Crime, Prison and Forensics
Author: Prof Edmund JB Frank G4, Vishwas Crown, Near Cochin Bakery Kankanady, Mangaluru-575002 Contact No.: 7975369402
Email:edmundfrank14@gmail.com
Published by: PMI Publications Prison ministry India, 52, Thomas Layout Sarjapur Road, Carmelaram, Begaluru-560035 91 9447710488+919486604887
nationalpmi2015@gmail.com www. prisonministryindia.org Copyright: PMI First Impression: 29 October 2025ISBN:Pages:254Price:Rs.300. The content ‘‘were’’ produced by GoogleandwiththeaidofChatGPT AI was thoroughly reviewed, fact-
checked, and edited by the author to ensure accuracy and integrity. This work draws inspiration and conceptual grounding from the writings and contributions of several leading authors, scholars, and institutions in the fields of Criminology, Forensic Science, Psychology, and Cybercrime.” Prof. Edmund Frank has once again succeeded in crafting a resource that will undoubtedly enrich academic study, policy dialogue, andfieldpracticeforyearstocome. "
A major Jubilee celebration specifically for prisoners is also planned for 14 December 2025 in Rome. These initiatives align with the core message of this book: that understanding crime and incarcerationmustgotogetherwith empathy, reform, and the belief in the potential for renewal. This is my fourteenth book, and through it, I hope to equip students, volunteers ofPrisonMinistryIndia,researchers, law enforcement personnel, correctional staff, legal professionals, and policymakers with not only knowledge but also empathy. It is only through informed understanding that
genuine and lasting reform can be envisioned—andenacted.
It is noteworthy that this prolific Author and hard core PMI worker withPrisonsProf.EdmundFrankisa special invitee to the Jubilee celebrations in Rome on December 14, 2025 : The official letter from the Dicastery for the service of Integral Human Development at Vatican , confirms that Mr. Edmund JohnBernardFrank,IndianNational, has been Invitedto Italy for the Jubilee of Detainees event in December 2025. I want to attendthe Jubilee celebrations in Rome on December 14, 2025. He is tobeinRomefromDecember10to 20, 2025 and accommodation will beprovidedonhisarrival.Mr.Frank is responsible for all his expenses during his stay in Italy, indeeda greatprivilegeandrecognition. -
Adapted: Ivan Saldanha-Shet.
Yuletide
-By: Molly Pinto.
Oh, happy days, wish it were here to stay
When December comes, with its songs
Sounds of bells and sparkling everywhere
A time when hearts are filled with love
This is a season of celebrations
This is a time of reflection and planning For another year we will step out of For another opportunity to live
Oh, happy days, and holiday plans
When December comes, brings relief From the long journey to this point And from the storms that have passed
This is a season of integration
This is a time of giving and forgiving There's magic in the air that's contagious There's remembrance of loved one's gone
-Molly Pinto.
Dear Readers,
I
ndia is rising to new heights of success and earning global recognition like never before. The nationismovingwithstrongresolve toward its goal of becoming a developed country by 2047. Today, nothing seems impossible for India. Our expanding capabilities are opening new possibilities across every sector. But who will carry forward the ‘Siddhi’ of a Viksit Bharat? Undoubtedly, the children of today. The knowledge, values, andskillstheyacquirewillshapethe India of tomorrow. If our children are healthy, educated, and proficientinscience,theywillpropel India confidently on its path to becoming a developed nation. Just as a strong foundation is essential for a sturdy structure, a wellnurtured and healthy childhood is vital for building a powerful new India.
The cover story of New India Samachar (16–30 November 2025), “Torchbearers of Viksit Bharat: Today’s Children, Tomorrow’s Future,” reflects this very idea an
India prospering through empoweredchildhoods.
In the Personality section, we feature a special article on India’s highly revered warrior Jhalkari Bai. This issue also covers the ninth anniversary of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin, which falls on the 20th of November, along with key decisions of the Union Cabinet have also been included in thisissue.
For easy accessibility, the e-New India Samachar is now available in Hindi, English, and 11 other Indian languages. You can click on the link in your preferred language to explore the latest edition and stay informed about the dynamic developmentsshapingthenation.
BestwishesandRegards
Kanchan Prasad
Publisher, New India Samachar & Director General, Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Government of India
United Friends, Heathrow - UK
Celebrated Saint Francis Xavier FeastwithFirsteverKonkaniMassat St. George Chapel, Heathrow, Terminal 3. Goans Hindus, Christian and Muslim got together in veneration our patron saint popularly known as Goencho Saib, Main celebrant was Rev. Fr. Renato Andrade(SFX),Co-CelebrantRevFr PaulIbekwe(C.s.sp),FrJudeKurume (S.s.sp). Multi Faith chaplain of HeathrowRevRuthBottomthanked the Goan Community for giving service at Heathrow Airport and praised Goan for their
professionalism and being part of every sector and department. Rev. Herteberto de Mello presided over Eucharistic service and President of United Friends Leister Martins vowed to continue the feast Mass celebration in Konkani in the years to come. After the Mass there was meet and greet where snacks and cakewere served.
INAUGURATION OF PLAY ZONE K.G SECTION.
Milagres Central School newly built
play zone for kids was inaugurated making a new milestone in
providing quality education and recreation for our students. Play zone for kids was a vibrant, exciting indoor space with various play structure like slides, climbing walls andballpits designedforchildren’s physical and social development. It offers a safe stimulating environment, where kids can run, jump and explore through activities with soft padded surfaces for their safety.
M.C for the programme was Mrs.
Mariette Rodrigues. There was an
Introduction followed by welcome speech by Mrs. Prema D Souza. The highlight was the cutting of the ribbon and inspiring message from our CampusDirector Rev.Dr. Alwyn Serrao, accompanied by a heartfelt prayersong“Thereshallbeshowers of blessings. Fr. Uday Fernandes sharesapowerfulwordofGod.
Esteemed guests including Campus Director Rev. Dr. Alwyn Serrao, Milagres P.U.C Principal Mr. Melwyn Vaz, Nursing College PrincipalDr.DianaLoboandRev.Fr. Uday Fernandes graced the occasion. Mrs. Ida Fernandes delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks appreciating every one’s presence andsupport.
Inter Diocesan Christ the King celebration held at Shivamogg
Shivamogga, November 24, 2025: The Inter-Diocesan Christ the King celebration took place at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shivamogga, on Sunday, November 23rd, at 5 PM. The event brought together the Diocese of Shimoga, the Diocese of Bhadravati (Syro Malabar), and the
Syro Malankara Church, along with their faithful, clergy, and religious communities. The Holy Rosary, led by Fr. Franklin D'Souza, preceded thecelebrationat4:30PM.
At5:15PM,HisExcellencyMostRev. Dr. Duming Dias, Apostolic
Administrator of the Diocese of Shimoga concelebrated the Holy Eucharist with His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Arumachadath, BishopoftheDioceseofBhadravati, and His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Makarios, Bishop of
the Diocese of Puttur. A substantial number of priests, religious, and faithful participated in the festal Massandofferedprayersforpeace. Bishop Geevarghese Makarios delivered a profound homily on the
significance of Christ the King, encouraging the faithful to emulate Jesus Christ and upholdthe truth. It is imperative that we collectively andferventlyprayforglobalpeace.
Procession was organized in the streets of Shivamogga. The faithful prayed the Rosary, sang hymns for Christ the King, and publicly honored the Lord Jesus Christ. BenedictionwasheldintheChurch. Bishop Joseph Arumachadath carried the Eucharistic Lord throughouttheprocession.
Upon the return of the Eucharistic processiontothechurch,FrFranklin D'Souzaconductedhealingprayers, followed by Bishop Duming Dias and Bishop Joseph Arumachadath leading the benediction and final blessing.
The liturgy and procession were meticulouslyorganizedbyVeryRev. Fr. Stany D'Souza, Dean of Mount CarmelDeaneryandParishPriestof Sacred Heart Cathedral, in collaborationwithRev.Fr.GeorgeK.
A., Dean of Little Flower Deanery, Rev. Fr. Ronald D'Cunha, Dean of HolyFamilyDeanery,Rev.Fr.Roman Pinto, Dean of Vianney Deanery, Deanery Priests, Religious, and the faithful.
After the Mass, a Eucharistic
Fr Stany D'Souza, on behalf of the Diocese of Shimoga, extended his
gratitude to all who contributed selflessly to the successful celebration of the Christ the King feast.
The Shimoga Diocese has elected new youth office bearers for ICYM and YCS/YSM for the year 2026.
Shivamogga, December 23, 2024: The Shimoga Diocese Youth DEXCO Elections for the 2026 term were successfully conducted on November 22nd
and 23rd, 2025, at Sannidhi,
Shivamogga.Thesepivotalelections established the new leadership for both the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) and the Young Catholic Students/Young Students Movement (YCS/YSM), in addition to nominating members for other youth movements, thereby influencing the trajectory of youth leadershipwithintheDiocese.
ICYMofficebearers 2026:
The elections for ICYM were overseen by Ms. Supriya Verghees, National ICYM Secretary, and Fr. Franklin D'Souza, who ensured a smooth and transparent election process. The newly elected ICYM leadershipfor2025isasfollows:
Director:Fr Franklin D’Souza, Animator:SrOphilia
1.President:LennyD'Sa,OurLadyofPerpetualSuccourChurch,Malur
2.VicePresident:Victor,MaryImmaculateChurch,NewtownBhadravati
3.Secretary:NikithaSofia,InfantJesusChurch,SharavathiNagara
4.JointSecretary:SheethalBritto, GoodShepherdChurch,Gopala
4.Treasurer:SamuelFernandes,ChristtheKingChurch,Jogfalls
5.LiturgySecretary:Beena,Infant JesusChurch,Sharavatinagara
6.BoyRepresentative:SuhasMartin,SacredHeart Cathedral,Shivamogga
7.GirlRepresentative:Susanna,SacredHeartCathedral,Shivamogga
8.MediaSecretary:Vivian,St.FrancisXavier'sChurch,Channagiri
These newly elected leaders are poised to propel the ICYM movement forward, injecting renewed vigor, strategic foresight, and unwavering commitmenttotheserviceofthe Diocese'syouth.
YCS/YSMoffice bearers 2026:
The YCS/YSM elections were conducted under the leadership of Ms. Jesvita D'Souza, Regional President. Her expertise ensured the election process was fairandefficient.ThenewlyelectedleadersforYCS/YSM2026are:
Director:Fr Franklin D’Souza
Animator:SrVeronica Santhumayor
1.President:RexinPinto,ChristtheKingChurch,Jogfalls
2.VicePresident:JosephinSaldhna,InfantJesusChurch,Sharavatinagara.
3.Secretary:Abhilesh,InfantJesusChurch,Sharavatinagara.
4. Boy Representative: Melvin Immanuel D'Cunha, Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shivamogga
6.MediaSecretary:MelvinRebello,Sacred HeartCathedral,Shivamogga
These newly elected leaders contribute fresh enthusiasm, creativity, and commitmenttostrengthentheYCS/YSMmovementandinspiretheyouthof theDiocesetogrowspirituallyandsocially.
YouthCommissionDioceseofShimoga
1.Director:FrFranklinD’Souza
2.ICYMPresident:LennyD'Sa
3.YCS/YSMPresident:RexinPinto
4.YU4C:Murphy
5.AICUF:JesvitaD'SouzaandMelvinD'Cunha
6.Mijarc:AnthonyVijay
7.PMI:StephenLobo,SupriyaVargheseandJesvitaD'Souza
8.YouCat:Sannidhi
9.Communio:StephenLoboandLennyD'Sa
10.ABIDE:GaganRaj
ThenewlyelectedleadershipofICYMandYCS/YSMispoisedtoplayapivotal roleinnurturingthespiritualanddevelopmentalprogressoftheyouthwithin the Shimoga Diocese. Their leadership is anticipated to make substantial contributions to the efficacy and progression of the diocesan youth movement. We offer our commendations and extend our best wishes for a successfultenure.
17th Annual Day Celebration of Grades I to IV
“Esperance”
AT MOUNT CARMEL CENTRAL SCHOOL
The17thAnnual DayCelebrationof Grades I to IV of Mount Carmel CentralSchool,Mangaluru,washeld on27thNovember2025at4:30p.m. intheschoolauditorium,embracing the uplifting theme “ESPERANCE –LetHopeShapeOurDreams.”
The Chief Guest, Mr. Jithesh Choudhury, Deputy General Manager, MRPL, along with Principal Sr. Melissa, Superior of Vijay Marie Convent Sr. Asha Prima, Administrator Sr. Carissima, PTA Vice President Mr Ananthesh
Prabhu and Head Teacher Sr. Reshma was warmly welcomed at the entrance with the traditional Purnakumbha Swagatham and escorted with honour by the school bandandScouts,Guides.
Theprogrammecommencedwitha soulful prayer song followed by a graceful welcome dance that set a serene and celebratory tone. Principal Sr. Melissa extended a heartfelt welcome to the dignitaries andthegathering.
This was followed by the performance of Grade 4, who presented “The Colours of Friendship,” a meaningful portrayal that highlighted the cherished values of Venerable Mother
Veronica - obedience, faith, peace, service, humility, and love, woven beautifullyintotheirpresentation.
The Annual Report was then presented, offering a
comprehensive glimpse into the year’s academic progress, cocurricular achievements, and the holistic development of the students.
The Chief Guest addressed the gathering, by emphasizing that the
month of November holds special significance for children, not only because of Children’s Day but also asatimetocelebratetherightsand welfare of every child. He congratulatedthestudentsfortheir creative performances. He praised the school for its unwavering commitment to more than just academic excellence. He acknowledged the school’s role in nurturing creativity, discipline, and strong values, fostering an environment where students are encouragedtogrowholistically.
Continuing the spirit of the theme, the students of Grade 1 to 3 presented “The Great Dream Bazaar,” an imaginative performance celebrating the power of dreams, creativity, and joyful aspiration.
The programme was seamlessly compered by Poorvi, Skeeth, Riana, and Ranesh. The celebration ended with a vote of thanks delivered by Kavish, Pranav, and Sahithya. The eventconcludedreverentlywiththe singingoftheSchoolAnthem.
Meet the author programme featuring renowned senior Konkani writer Vally Vogga
MediaRelease
Mangaluru,Nov30: TheKarnataka Konkani Writers Association, Mangaluru, organised a meet the author programme featuring renowned senior Konkani writer Vally Vogga (Valerian D’Souza of Mysuru) on November 30 at SandeshaHall,Mangaluru.
VallyVoggawasformallywelcomed to the dais by Dr Edward Nazareth on behalf of the Association’s
executivecommittee.Inhisaddress, the author reflected on his life journey, recalling his childhood in his native village of Vogga, noted for its reserve forests, wildlife, hills, lakes and rivulets. He spoke about
his early years spent working in industries, followed by his move to
Mysuru where he established his own industrial venture. During this
phase of his life, he authored hundreds of short stories published in leading Konkani periodicals such as Raknno. Many of these works have since been compiled into anthologies. He also highlighted that around 40 of his Konkani short stories, translated into Kannada by himself, have been published as a separateanthology.
An interactive session followed, moderated by executive committee
member Henry Mascarenhas, in which writers H R Alva, Concept Fernandes, Richard Pereira, Jemma Padil, Dolphy Cascia and Dirvem editor John Monis, among others, actively participated and engaged withtheauthor.
The programme was attended on the dais by the Association’s convenor Richard Moras and committeemembersDolphyCascia, Dr Edward Nazareth and Henry Mascarenhas. The event was comperedbywriterLaviGanjimat.
Around 55 writers and Konkani language enthusiasts were present, lendingvibrancyandsignificanceto theliterarygathering.
THESCHOOLEXHIBITION
RADIANCE2025.
Milagres Central School hosted its much-awaited exhibition
RADIANCE 2025, showcasing the creativity and innovative spirit of its young learners. The programme began with a prayer by the school choir, followed by a warm welcome fromMissShainaNazareth(Grade
VI). Master Aditya Biju (Grade IXA) highlighted the significance of the exhibition in promoting experiential learning and critical thinking. The exhibition was inaugurated by Very Rev Fr Bonaventure Nazarath, School
Manager,inthepresenceofRevDr Alwin SerraoCampus Director, Dr Diana Lobo Principal – Milagres Nursing College, Mr Melvin Vas Principal – Milagres P.U. College, and Rev Fr Joseph Uday
Fernandes Principal – Milagres Central School.
In his inaugural message, Very Rev Fr Bonaventure encouraged students to think creatively and pursueknowledgewithenthusiasm. Students from various classes presented a wide range of models, workingprojects,charts,andartistic displays, reflecting their hard work and imagination. The event concludedwithavoteofthanksand enthusiastic interaction between students,teachers,andvisitors.
RADIANCE 2025 successfully celebratedinnovation,learning,and thevibrantspiritofMilagresCentral School.
Fr L.M. Pinto Hospital, Badyar, marked a
historic milestone
On December 1, 2025, with the blessing and inauguration of its newly upgraded Emergency Ward, Ultrasound Unit, Reception Counter and advanced X-Ray Machine, furtherstrengtheningitsemergency anddiagnosticservicesfortherural
population of Badyar and neighbouring areas.
The programme began with a solemn blessing ceremony led by Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, BishopoftheDioceseofMangalore,
who invoked God’s blessings upon the new facilities, medical staff and allpatientswhowillbenefitfromthe upgraded services. This was followed by the unveiling of the plaque and the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new Emergency block, new Ultrasound Machine, Reception Counter and X-Ray Machine. The inauguration was carried out jointly by Mr Michael D’Souza, Mrs Flavia D’Souza and their son Adrien, together with the Bishop.ThepresenceoftheMichael D’Souza family added great significance to the event, as they have been the major benefactors, contributing more than ₹80 lakhs towards the construction and development of the Emergency Department and adjoining facilities. In appreciation of their remarkable support, the Bishop felicitated the family during the programme. The stage programme was anchored by Fr Roshan Crasta, Administrator of the hospital, who welcomed and acknowledged all dignitaries on and off the dais. The event began with a warm Welcome Address by Sr Janet, Nursing Superintendent, expressing
gratitude toall guests,partnersand the local community for their continued cooperation with the hospital’s mission. A special highlight of the occasion was the introduction of the new Hospital Anthem composed by Fr Abel, reflectingthehospital’smissionand spirit of compassionate care. The anthem was rendered for the first time by the Badyar Church Choir members along with the hospital staff, adding an inspiring and meaningful note to the event. The Hospital Management expressed deep appreciation to all benefactors and collaborators who made the new developments possible, with special gratitude to Mr Michael D’Souza for his sustained contributions that have been instrumental in modernising the hospital’s services. On this occasion, Mr Sampath Ratna, engineer and contractor from SLV Constructions,washonouredforhis dedicated service and professional execution of the project. Local Panchayat leaders were also present,expressingtheirsupportfor the hospital’s continuous efforts toward improving rural healthcare
delivery.
The newly inaugurated Emergency Ward is equipped with improved infrastructure, critical-care beds, advanced monitoring systems and essential emergency equipment, enabling the hospital to handle trauma cases, cardiac and obstetric emergencies, paediatric emergencies and other acute medicalconditionsmoreeffectively. The installation of the state-of-theart Ultrasound Machine and digital X-Ray Machine is expected to significantly enhance diagnostic accuracyandreducepatientwaiting time.ThenewlydesignedReception Counter aims to ensure smoother
patient flow and quicker registration, thereby enhancing the overall patient experience.
The programme concluded with a formal Vote of Thanks, followed by a guided tour of the upgraded facilities. The event reaffirmed Fr L.M. Pinto Hospital’s commitment to compassionate service, medical excellence and modernisation in response to the growing healthcare needs of the community. The hospital continues its mission of serving the poor, the sick and the vulnerablewithdedication,integrity and the latest medical technology, strengthening its role as a trusted healthcarecentreintheregion.
MCC Bank Inaugurates Renovated
Kankanady Branch Premises
MCC Bank, Mangalore, inaugurated its newly renovated Kankanady Branch at the Emporium Commercial Complex, Kankanady Pumpwell Road, Mangalore on 4th December 2025. The refurbished premises were inaugurated by Mr Michael D’Souza, renowned NRI entrepreneur, philanthropist, and
promoterofVisionKonkani(MDVK) whileRevFrFaustineLobo,Director of Fr Mullers Charitable Institutions, Kankanady,blessedpremises. The function was presided over by Sahakara Ratna Mr Anil Lobo, Chairman of MCC Bank. The chief guests included Fr J. B. Crasta, Director,St.AntonyAshram,Jeppu;
Sr Cynthia D’Souza, Superior, Sevanilaya Convent, Helpers of Mount Rosary (HMR), Bendur; and Mr Leo Rodrigues, President, Konkani Cultural Organisation (KCO). In his introductory address, Chairman Mr Anil Lobo elaborated
on the purpose and vision behind the renovation of the Kankanady Branch. “Customers today expect modernisation and new ideas. We have upgraded all 16 branches with a focus on digitalisation, equipijng themwithallnecessaryfacilities.
Whatever customers need, the bank is ready to provide, and the Bankhasbeensuccessfulinmeeting the needs of the customers. The Kankanady Branch has completed 54 years, and on this occasion, has renovated the premises to ensure
customers can carry on their transactionscomfortably”hesaid. He added that, when the present Management took charge, there wereonly16branches andoverthe last 7 years, five new branches have beenaddedafteragapof22years.
The RBI has granted permission to open additional branches, which indicates that the bank is financially soundandwell-managed.TheBank has met all financial parameters sincethepresentmanagementtook charge of the bank in 2018. Today, the Bank has a total of 21 branches and15 ATMs.
The Bank is planning to open four more branches in the next financial year,at Deralakatte,Katapadi,Padil, and either Mudipu or Vamanjoor. He sought the support and blessingsofthecustomersenabling the Bank to grow not only in the
state of Karnataka but also across the entire nation. He extended a warm welcome to all dignitaries, customers, and well-wishers gatheredforthe celebration.
In his address, Mr Michael D’Souza congratulated the Chairman, Board of Directors, and staff members for their achievements and praised MCC Bank for upholding exemplary standards of customer service and maintaining a warm, serviceoriented approach that distinguishes MCC Bank from many other banks. He acknowledged the visibleimprovementandgrowththe
bank has achieved under the dynamicleadership ofChairman Mr Anil Lobo, noting that the organisation has made steady progress across all sectors— includingbranchdevelopment,staff development, customer relations, publicity and more. He appreciated the Chairman’s ability to bring together dignitaries and customers for the programme. He quoted the words, “We grow to serve, serve to grow.” He advised that good lending practices and timely recovery can be achieved through the combined efforts of the
Directors and staff, along with the continued support of the customers. He conveyed his best wishes for the bank’s continued successandfutureendeavours.
Fr. J. B. Crasta, in his speech, expressed his happiness with the Bank for its exemplary service to customers and the safety of their funds. He appreciated the dedication and commitment of the branch staff,as wellas theirinterest in developing the business of the Branch. He concluded by extending hisheartfeltwishesfor the progress anddevelopmentoftheBank. MrLeoRodriguescongratulatedthe ChairmanonthegrowthoftheBank and thanked the dignitaries, staff, andcustomersfortheirpresence.
Fr Faustine Lobo in his speech, quoted verse from the Bible that a person is recognised by the service rendered by him. He also said that we should live and let others live. ThisalsoequallyappliestotheBank as it should grow along with the growth of the customers served by the bank. He further said that change is inevitable and a continuous process for all living beings, and this too is applicable to the Bank. He added that the Bank
should continue the path of steady growth by improving its facilities andservicestoservethesociety.He wishedtheBankalltheverybestfor itsfuturegrowth.
Karnataka Rajyotsava Awardee Mrs
Corrine Rasquinha, Founder of The White Doves Psychiatric Nursing & Destitute Home, Mangalore, was felicitated with a shawl, fruit basket, memento, citation, and flower bouquet.
Mr Michael D’Souza was honoured for being awarded at the ET Now BusinessConclave&Awards2025 –Mangaluru Edition under the category of Transformed Philanthropist and Community Leadership . MrEdmundFrankwasfelicitatedfor receiving an invitation from the Vatican to attend the Jubilee Mass at St Peter’s Basilica, Rome, on 14 December 2025 and for his 75th Birthday.
Mr Ivan Frank was honoured for being selected to present the Man of the Match award to a cricket star on behalf of SBI Life on 11 December at the India vs South AfricaT20matchinChandigarh.
Mr Melwin Dalmedia, who is an actor in the recently released Konkani film Bapache Putache Navim,wasalsofelicitated.
As part of the celebrations, MCC Bank also honoured several customers celebrating milestone birthdays: MrJohnSimonD’Souza–60th birthday (3 December), Ms Merlyn Rego – 60th birthday (7 December), Ms Shalet D’Souza –50th birthday (20 December), Mr V. Suresh Kumar – 50th birthday (21 December).
The programme was compered by Mr Roshan Crasta, who also proposedthevoteofthanks.
Vice Chairman Mr Jerald Jude Dsilva, Kankanady Branch support Director Mr Herold Monteiro, Directors Mr Andrew Dsouza, Mr Melwin Vas, Mr David Dsouza, Dr Freeda Dsouza, Mrs Irene Rebello, Mr C.G.Pinto, Mr J.P. Rodrigues, Mr Roshan Dsouza, Mr Alwyn P. Monteiro, Mr Felix D’Cruz, General Manager Mr Sunil Menezes, Branch Manager Mrs Ida Pinto, staff members, and customers in large numbers were present. The event commencedwithaprayerledbythe staff.
Zerodha Varsity – India’s Premier Finance Quiz
Conducted at StAgnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru
The Department of Commerce organized a Finance Quiz Competition under the banner of “ZerodhaVarsity –India’sPremier Finance Quiz” at St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru on 28 November2025.Theeventreceived an overwhelming response, with 325 teams, each consisting of three students, registering and actively participatinginthequiz.
The competition aimed to enhance financial literacy and create
awareness about the world of finance among students. The first round was a preliminary round comprising 20 objective questions, from which six top-scoring teams qualified for the final round. After a highly competitive finale, Alric, Samuel and Alston from Final B. Com secured the First Prize with a cash award of ₹12,000, followed by Prajwal, Mohan and Yajnesh from I B. Com who won the Second Prize with ₹9,000, and Durgesh and AthmikafromIIMBAwhoachieved
theThirdPrizewith₹3,000.Thequiz not only enriched the financial knowledge of participants but also helped them improve analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, giving them a valuable learning experience. The programme began with a prayer led by Shawn and group, followed by a cordial welcome by the compère Shamitha, who also introduced and welcomed the Quiz Master, Mr. Raghav Chakravarthy, Co-Founder of QShala, highlighting his vast expertise in the field of quizzingandlearning.Thepresence of dignitaries added to the significance of the event. The PrincipalSrDrVenissaA.C.,theVice PrincipalSrDr.RoopaRodrigusA.C., and the PG Coordinators Sr Dr.
Vinora A.C. graced the programme and encouraged the participants throughout.
Theprizedistributionceremonywas led by the Principal, congratulating the winners and appreciated the commendable efforts of the organisers, volunteers, and faculty. The staff coordinator, Mrs Vineetha, Head of the Department of Commerce, took the initiative for the overall coordination and smoothconductoftheprogramme, ensuring the event ran in an organised and impactful manner. Facultymembersextendedtheirfull support by assisting in the evaluation process and motivating students, making the event both competitiveandinspiring.
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WORLD AIDS DAY AWARENESS SESSION
The Youth Red Cross Unit of St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru,organisedanAwareness Session on World AIDS Day on 1 December 2025 on the topic “Unite for a World Without AIDS.” The session began at 2:15 PM in the RoomNoA4,AvilaBlock.
The programme was compered by Ms. Nashara from I B. Com, who warmly welcomed the gathering and introduced the significance of observing World AIDS Day. She highlighted the need for awareness, compassion, and the elimination of stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS.
The resource person for the session was Mrs. Prajwal Rao, HOD and Assistant Professor, Department of Microbiology, St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru. She delivered an informative and insightful talk on HIV transmission, prevention methods, myths and facts, and the importance of building a supportive and inclusive environment for people living with HIV. Her session helped students understandthescientific,social,and emotionalaspectsofHIV/AIDS. Towardstheendoftheprogramme, Ms. Pavithra from I B. Sc proposed the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to the resource person, the YRC staff coordinator Mrs. Nimitha K, Secretary Ms.
Serena Saldanha, faculty members, and all students for their active participation.
The session proved to be highly informative and meaningful,
SAD
inspiring students to spread awareness and contribute towards creating a world free from discriminationandstigma.
DEMISE Mr. Edward Saldanha, Fatherin-law of Stanly Bantwal, H/O Deelia Saldanha. Father of Liffin, Viveen, Sr. Movin, Lenin
Residence Address: #1292, 3rd Stage, Water tank Road, Kesare, RS Naidunagar, Mysore.
Artisans of Peace' – Cardinal Ferrão Calls for Prophetic Leadership at Pre-Christmas Gathering
MANGALURU: Ina powerfulcallto action amidst changing times, His Eminence Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, Archbishop of Goaand
Daman, urged the lay faithful in Mangaluru to become "artisans of peace" and "truth bearers" in society.
The Cardinal was delivering the keynote address at a special pre-
Christmas gathering titled "Atthe Threshold of Christmas: Christian WitnessinTimesofChange,"held on Friday, December 5, at St Anthony Ashram's Sambhram Hall, Jeppu,Mangaluru.TheCardinalwas
in the city for the celebration of the annualfeastatStJosephVaz Shrine in Mudipu. The event was jointly organisssedbytheKonkaniCatholic Lawyers' Guild (KCLG), Diocese of Mangalore and the Diocesan CommissionforLayFaithful.
Cardinal’s Keynote: A Call to Prophetic Leadership
Delivering the keynote address, Cardinal Ferrão emphasised that Christian witness is primarily about makingJesuspresentthroughone’s life. Echoing Pope Francis, he
highlighted the need for a "culture of encounter," urging the community to promote peace and engageinmeaningfuldialogue.
"We are called to be the artisans of peace," the Cardinal stated. He stressed that dialogue is central to
Christian communication and encouraged the laity to form friendships across religious circles andjoincommunityinitiatives.
The Cardinal outlined the responsibility of the laity specifically lawyers, business owners, working professionals, and media workers to exercise
"prophetic leadership" in their workplaces.
"We must refuse silence in the face of injustice and defend the marginalised and voiceless. Our stance should not be aggressive, but firm and compassionate," he noted,callingonthefaithfultobuild "bridgesandnotbreaches"amidst
hostility.
Dr Praveen Martis: Building Counter-Narratives
Respondingtothekeynote,Guestof Honour Rev. Dr Praveen Martis SJ, Vice Chancellor of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) and President of The Xavier Board of Higher Education in India (XBHEI),
contextualisedthethemewithinthe currentscenarioofMangaluru.
Dr Martis highlighted significant demographic shifts, noting that the number of vocations and marriages is declining, while single-child familiesandupwardmobilitydriven by ambition among the youth are ontherise.
"In this context, Christian witness especially amidst false narratives anduncertainties requiresthatthe fight for truth and justice must continue," Dr Martis said. He urged the faithful to break out of their "comfortzones"andbuild"counternarratives" through dialogue and a change of mindset, while adapting
to changing technology and revolutions. He further emphasised thatthroughthecollaborationofall Indian catholic educational institutions, the community can set a powerful and united witness in currenttimes.
InteractiveSession
Following the addresses, the forum wasthrownopenfordiscussionand dialogue. The interventions were moderated by Dr Alwyn D’Sa, former Registrar of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru,whofacilitatedavibrant exchange of ideas on the session's themes.
Presidential Address: Denounce andAnnounce
Presiding over the function, Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, delivered a stirring message focused on the dual responsibilityofthefaithful.
"Wemust'denounce'prophetically
the fake narratives, crimes, and injustice through writing and media," Bishop Saldanha asserted. "At the same time, we must 'announce' the Good News that Jesus is present in the hearts of all, and that Christian ethos resides in theheartsofeveryone."
ProceedingsandDignitaries
The programme was compered by SrRencySRA.
The event began with a welcome addressbyAdvocateSushanthC.A.
Saldanha, President of the Konkani CatholicLawyers'Guild.
Several prominent dignitaries gracedtheoccasion,includingMost Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza, Bishop Emeritus, Fr J. B. Crasta, Secretary of the Diocesan
Commission for Lay Faithful and Mr M. P. Noronha, Principal District Government Pleader. Also present were Dr John D’Silva, Secretary of the Diocesan Pastoral Parishad; Mr Roy Castelino, Diocesan PRO; alongside various religious provincial superiors, priests, sisters, andmembersoftheGuild.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Mrs Loveena Paneer,SecretaryofKCLG.
Corporate: Navigate POSH with Confidence’
The MBA and MCA Departments of St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, organized a guest talk titled“FromCampustoCorporate: Navigating POSH with Confidence” for the students of Ist yearMBAandMCAonTuesday,2nd December2025.
The session was conducted by Dr. DeviPrabha Alva, Assistant
Professor of Commerce, St.Agnes College, and a Certified POSH Trainer. Its primary objective was to raise awareness among students about the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act, workplace ethics,andtheimportanceofsafety anddignityastheypreparetoenter professionalenvironments
Thesessionbeganat2:15pmwitha warm welcome by Mr. Rohistan Pinto, a student of the MCA department,whointroducedthe
guest speaker and highlighted the speaker’scredentials.
Dr. DeviPrabha began her session with the powerful statement, “Itis
thatisdangerous,butthesilence of the socalled educated,”
thereby emphasizing the need to raise awareness and speak against injustice. She enriched the session by sharing real‑life incidents of workplace harassment, which helpedthestudentsunderstandthe seriousness of the issue. A short documentary titled “Zaroorat” was screened, portraying the realities of harassment at the workplace and reinforcing the need for vigilance andawareness
During the session, the speaker covered the origin and background ofthePOSHAct,2013,themeaning anddefinitionofsexualharassment, and the various types of harassment. She highlighted the need for awareness at the college level and the responsibilities of employers and institutions to ensure a safe, respectful environment. Dr. DeviPrabha also explained the Act’s key provisions, reporting and redress procedures, and shared the Women’s Helpline number (1091). Case scenarios helpedstudentsapplytheconcepts, and the session’s takeaway was summedupas:“Safetyanddignity arenon‑negotiable.”
An interactive Q&A and feedback session followed with students actively participating and clarifying doubts. The vote of thanks was delivered by Ms. Vihitha Shetty, an MBAstudent,thankingtheresource person, organizing departments, and participants. The programmeconcludedwithagroup photograph.
The Power of Starting Small –How Big Ideas Really Grow
The Institution's Innovation Council (IIC) of St. Agnes College (Autonomous) organised a session on 27 November 2025, open to all interested studentsoftheSt.Agnes College,on ‘ThePowerofStarting Small,HowBigIdeas ReallyGrow - straight talk on the discipline, grit and mindset behind meaningful innovation’, as part of
its upcoming campus entrepreneurship challenge‘InnovateandElevate’.
The session began at 2:15 pm with Mrs. Akshatha Shetty, the Assistant Professor of the Department of MCA and the Innovation coordinator of IIC, conducting the session. Dr. Mallika Shetty, Assistant Professor of the Department of MBA and the convenorofIIC,escortedtheguests, the resource person Mr. Johnson Tellis, the CEO of Sahyadri College ofEngineering&Management,also
theCo-FounderandCEOofInUnity, and Sr.Dr.M.VenissaA.C, thePrincipalofSt.AgnesCollegeto the stage. This was followed by a warm welcome and introduction of thespeakerdeliveredbyDr.Mallika Shetty.
The Principal then addressed the gathering, sharing words of encouragement and appreciation, after which a green welcome was extendedtoMr.JohnsonTellis.
Following this, resource person Mr. Johnson began his talk, sharing his life journey and how he kept hope and determination alive despite challenges. He highlighted his first invention a plane which became a milestone that shaped his entrepreneurial mindset.
Mr. Johnson also explained how he encourages students to think creatively,fosteringanenvironment that supports experimentation and originality. He introduced two metaphorical cages: the Golden Cage – representing comfort zones thatrestrictgrowth,andtheCageof Resistance – symbolizing self imposed limitations. This was
followed by a Q&A session where students asked insightful questions about developing ideas and pursuing innovation. He recommended several books to help them navigate a competitive world and shift perspectives on life, stressing that education broadens
horizons — not only through textbooks but also through real world experiences and exposurebeyondtheclassroom
Thesessionofficiallyconcludedwith avoteofthanks.
Guest Lecture: “Significance and Career Opportunities in Forensic Science”
The Department of Chemistry, St.Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangalore, organized a guest lecture titled “Significance and Career Opportunities in Forensic Science” as part of launching the Value Added Course in Forensic Science on 2December2025 at 2.50pm and 29 students participated. The resource person for the programmewas Dr.Saritha Dsouza,
AssociateProfessorandHeadofthe Department of MSc Criminology and Forensic Science, School of SocialWork,RoshniNilaya.
The event was held under the guidance of Mrs. Helen Serrao, Head of the Department of Chemistry.
Dr. Saritha introduced forensic scienceastheapplicationofnatural sciences in crime investigation and
legal justice, explaining how chemistry, biology, and physics concepts analyze evidence via DNA fingerprinting, chromatography, and mass spectrometry. She covered major branches Forensic Psychology, Forensic Entomology, Forensic Toxicology, Fingerprint Analysis, and Odontology—and highlighteditsroleincrime solving, unbiased evidence, disaster‑victim identification, cybersecurity, counter‑terrorism,andpublicsafety.
Career-wise,forensicprofessionals
work in Forensic Science Laboratories, police departments, central agencies (IB, CBI, NCRB), private firms, media, research, corporate sectors, and entrepreneurship. Roles include Forensic Science Technician, Criminalist, Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO), Document Analyst, and Senior/Junior Scientist. The lecture gave valuable insights, created awareness of diverse pathways, and successfully launched the Value‑Added Course in Forensic Science.
SixteenApostolicCarmelSistersEmbrace theSacredCovenantofFinalProfession
The Apostolic Carmel Congregation rejoiced in a profound moment of grace as sixteen young sisters offered their lives to God through their Final Religious Profession on
Saturday, December 6, at Presentation Convent, Maryhill, Mangaluru. It was a day when heaven seemed to touch the earth, as these chosen daughters of God
freelyembracedalifelongcovenant oflovewithChrist.
The sisters Sr Reema Monteiro, Sr
Ashal Vinitha Sequeira, Sr Jovita
Claret Dmello, Sr Angelina Lepcha, Sr Helena Marini, Sr Phidalin, Sr
Binita Soreng, Sr Pushpa Tete, Sr
Sangita Dung Dung, Sr Ibansara Marbaniang, Sr Kalpana Parmar, Sr
Telma Dsouza, Sr Maria Nirma, Sr
Ribanika Kurbah, Sr Amirtha Kane and Sr Anu Maria pronounced their perpetual vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience in the presence of
the Superior General, Sr Maria NirmaliniAC,alongwiththeirfamily members,priests,andtheApostolic Carmel family. With hearts surrendered to God’s call, they pledged to walk in the footsteps of
Jesus, offering their lives as a living sacrificeoflove.
ThesolemnEucharisticcelebration
was presided over by Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore,
priests. In his homily, he beautifully reflectedonthesacrednuptialbond betweentheDivineBridegroomand the bride. Drawing inspiration from St Teresa of Avila, the Bishop spoke ofthetransformingpower of divine love and invited the sisters to experience the same in their daily life. He urged them to clothe
themselveswiththevirtuesofChrist — love, humility, compassion, patience,andkindness.Referringto the parable of the vine and the branches, he reminded them that their fruitfulness in life and mission would come only from abiding deeplyintheloveofGod.
The Superior General Sr Nirmalini joyfullyacceptedthevowsonbehalf of the Church, affirming their irrevocablecommitmentandplaced a ring upon their finger as a sign of their final commitment to God. The gathering of the generalate team, provincial superiors, sisters from various communities, family members from India and Sri Lanka, parish priests, and well-wishers created an atmosphere filled with thanksgiving and praise. It was a celebration not just of sixteen vocations, but of God’s faithfulness through generations. Sr Jovita D’Mello, in her words of gratitude, acknowledged the many hands and hearts that had nurtured them on theirjourneyofformation.
Following the Eucharist, the celebration continued at the Mount Carmel Central School auditorium, exquisitely decorated to reflect the sacredness and joy of the occasion.
The felicitation programme began withagracefulculturaldancebythe postulants, symbolizing the joy of a liferootedinGod.Thenoviceslifted the spiritual tone further through their melodious action song. A moment of special joy was the ceremonial cake-cutting by the finally professed sisters along with the dignitaries. As Sr Linet Maria introduced each sister with creativity and warmth, the Superior General adorned them with a garland,asymboloftheirbelonging to Christ and their permanence in theApostolicCarmelfamily.
In her message, Sr Nirmalini congratulated the sisters for respondinggenerouslytotheLord’s call. She reminded them that a vocation is a gift of God’s
unconditional love, inviting them to cling to Christ, especially in moments of trial, and to remain steadfast in their mission of love and service. She expressed gratitudetothepriests,parents,and families, urging them to continue supporting these sisters with prayer andaccompaniment.
The programme, gracefully compered by Sr Linet Maria, stood as a testimony to the beauty of consecratedlife,thepowerofGod’s call, and the deep joy found in giving oneself entirely to God. The day concluded with a fellowship meal that radiated warmth, unity, and gratitude, an expression of the sharedjoyofwitnessingGod’swork in the lives of these sixteen young bridesofChrist
Milagres inaugurated and blessed "Senacle'anarenatohavefoodand
breakfast after celebrating the requiemMassandfuneralservice.Fr
OurLadyofMiracles church
Avith announced the gospel Alwyn Serraoexplainedthemassageofthe day. Fr. Bona blessed the place. The
vice president welcomed the gathering. Fr Maxim Monteiro was greetedontheoccasion. The premises contained a water sump, a cellar and the upper room formeetingandsocializing. The place was very much required as there was no place for such a gathering. About two hundred peoplegatheredfortheprayer.
Recipe Title: Kadgi Podi (Crispy Raw Jackfruit Fritters)
Atraditionalcoastalfavourite—crispyontheoutside,softontheinside,and fullofflavour!
Ingredients
1.RawJackfruit – 500 g
2.DosaRice – 1 cup
3. ByadgiChilli – 10
4. Asafoetida – 1 inchpiece
5. Salt – Totaste
6. Oil – Fordeepfrying
Method
1. Soak thedosariceinwaterfor 3 hours.
2. Peel andcut therawjackfruitintolongslicessuitableforfrying.
3. Inavessel, boil water,add salt,andcookthejackfruitpiecesfor 10 minutes.
4. Drainand set theboiledjackfruit aside tocool.
5. Inamixerjar,add Byadgi chillies, soakedrice,and asafoetida. Grindintoa coarsepaste—nottoosmooth.
6. Coat thejackfruitpiecesthoroughlywiththismasalapaste and marinate for15 minutes.
7. Heatoilinapan. Drop eachjackfruit slice gently intothehotoil and fry until golden andcrisp.
8. Yourdelicious Kadgi Podi isreadytoservehot!
ServingSuggestion
Christmas Kuswar: Nevri Crispy and filled Nevryo
NevribringsbackthewarmthoftraditionalKonkanikitchens,wherefestive sweetsweremadewithpatienceandlove.This crisp,coconut-filledtreat continuestobeamust-have duringfamilycelebrations duringChristmas Season.
NEVRI/ KARANJI
Traditional Mangalore Christmas Kuswar
**Ingredients**
**FortheOuterCover**
*2cupsmaida(refinedflour)
*¼cupfinerava(semolina)
*¼teaspoonsalt
*3tablespoonshotghee
*Lukewarmwater – asrequired
*
**FortheFilling**
*¼cupwhitesesameseeds
*2 cupsof drycoconut,grated
*1cupfinerava
*¼cupcashews,broken
*¼cupraisins
*1cuppowderedsugar(adjusttotaste)
*½teaspooncardamompowder
**ForFrying**
*Oil,asrequired
**Method**
**PreparingtheDough**
1.Inawidebowl,combinemaida,finerava,andsalt.Mixwell.
2.Addhotgheeandmixthoroughlyuntiltheflourresemblesbread-crumb texture.
3.Graduallyaddlukewarmwaterandkneadintoasoft,smoothdough.
4.Coverandrestthedoughfor**30minutes**.
**Preparingthe Filling**
1.Heatapanon **lowflame**anddryroastthesesameseedsuntilthey lightlychangecolour.Donotburn.Removeandkeepaside.
2.Inthesame pan,dryroastthegrateddrycoconutonlowheatuntilcrisp. Removeandkeepaside.
3.Addfineravatothesamepananddryroastonlowheatuntilaromatic. Removeandkeepaside.
4.Addbrokencashews,lightlyroast,crushthemcoarsely,andaddtothe roastedmixture.
5.Addraisinsandmixwell.
6.Allowthemixtureto coolcompletely.
7.Onceitiscooled,addpowderedsugarandcardamompowder.Mix thoroughlyandsetaside.
**Shapingthe Nevri**
1.Kneadtheresteddoughlightlyonceagain.
2.Dividethedoughintosmallportionsandrolleachintothinpuris.
3.Placeaspoonfuloffillinginthecentre.
4.Usingakaranji(nevri)mould,applyalittlewateralongtheedgesandseal firmly.
**Frying**
1.Heatoilon**lowtomediumflame**.
2.Frythenevriinbatches,turningoccasionally,untilevenlygoldenand crispyonbothsides.
3.Removeanddrainonabsorbentpaper.
**ServingSuggestion**
Allowtocoolcompletelybeforestoring.Thesecrispynevrisstayfreshfor severaldayswhenstoredinanairtightcontainer.
Towatchthisrecipeindetail,visitmyYouTubechannel:
KavitaDsouza’sKitchen
Celebrities Lit Up Malad Masti 2025, Turning the Morning into a Carnival of Entertainment.
Mumbai (RBI), Dec.04: The vibrant streets of Malad came alive as Malad Masti 2025 kicked off with electrifying energy, celebrity glamour, and a strong message of community support. Organized under the leadership of MLA Aslam Shaikh, the event celebrated its 9th
year with a star-studded lineup and an overwhelming public response.
This year’s edition witnessed the cast of the upcoming film “Mastii 4”- including Ruhi Singh, Shreya Sharma, and the widely loved Dancing Cop Amol Kamble - who settheearly-morningstagebuzzing
with excitement. Former Miss India Ruhi Singh captivated fans with her dazzling presence, while actress Shreya Sharma, paired opposite Vivek Oberoi in the film, impressed
the audience with her style, charm, and infectious enthusiasm. Both actressesraisedtheenergylevelsas they danced to their film’s tracks, turning the venue into a miniconcert.
Reality-show sensation Sana Sultan added to the celebration, dancing with fans and engaging with the crowd. The dynamic performance by Dancing Cop Amol Kamble further charged the atmosphere, making it one of the most memorableeditionsofMaladMasti.
The smooth and successful execution of the event was made possible with the support of key partners-KishanJainofGoldMedal Company and Yogesh Lakhani of BrightOutdoor,bothofwhomhave been long-standing supporters of the festival. Event execution was masterfullyhandledbyMaheshRao of Mashraw Events, ensuring seamless coordination throughout the celebration.
The 2025 edition introduced a unique hosting pair -RJ Rangeeli Ruchi and renowned gynaecologist Dr. Mukesh Gupta, whose lively interactions and energetic presence kept the audience fully engaged.
Staying true to its communitydriven spirit, Malad Masti announced its support for farmers affectedbyrecentfloods,extending ahelpinghandtothoseinneed. For
nine years, the festival has not only been a hub of entertainment but also a symbol of social responsibility, cultural expression, and unity. Each year, Malad Masti draws Bollywood stars, performers, comedians, and influencers, turning the locality into a cultural hot spot. This year was no exception, with celebrities praising Aslam Shaikh and his team for their consistent efforts in nurturing a positive and vibrantcommunityevent.
With yet another successful edition, Malad Masti 2025 reaffirmed its status as one of Mumbai’s most cherished public festivals - a celebration that blends entertainment, community, and culture while winning hearts year afteryear.
New Office-Bearers of Jaylaxmi Co-Operative Credit Society Limited., Mumbai Dr. Narayan
R.Gowda (Honorary Chairman)-
NarayanaR.Gowda
Rangappa C.Gowda (Chairman) Mumbai, Dec.04:Okkaliga Sangha Mumbai(R.)andwiththesupportof ShreeAdichunchanagiriSevaSamiti Mumbai (R.) established Jaylaxmi Co-Operative Credit Society Limited., Mumbaimore than two and a half decades ago. Held its electionforthe2025–2030Boardof Directors and Office-Bearersat the Society’s office recently. The meeting was presided over by the Society’s Founder-DirectorDr. NarayanR.Gowda.
A KempeGowda
As per the regulations of the Maharashtra Government’s CooperativeSocietyElectionAuthority, Returning OfficerVishal Rathodconducted the election process. Following the prescribed norms, the new Board of Directors and executive office-bearers were unanimouslyelected. Former Karnataka Minister and Founder Chairman of the Jaylaxmi
Co.operative Credit Society Dr. K.C. Narayan Gowdawas elected asHonorary ChairmanandRangappa C. Gowda asChairman.
The other elected office-bearers areA.Kempegowda (Vice Chairman), K. Raje Gowda (Secretary), Muthe S. Gowda (Treasurer), The newly elected DirectorsareAnusuyaRangappa Gowda, Devaki Narayana Gowda, Sunanda Raje Gowda, Bharati S. Gowda, Sunil K. Awad, Rahul U. LagadeandSuratN.Yadav.
TheReturningOfficercongratulated the newly elected office-bearers and directors, presenting them with bouquets and certificates as they formally assumed charge. Officebearers of the Okkaliga Sangha Maharashtra also extended their greetings. The election process concludedwithavoteofthanks.
Maharashtra Raj Bhavan becomes Lok Bhavan
As per the instructions of the Central Government, the name of Maharashtra Raj Bhavan has been changed to Lok Bhavan. In this regard, the name displayed on the
main gate of Raj Bhavan was replaced on Wednesday night (3 Dec).
Camões and Churchill
PhilomenaLawrence Gilbert A.Lawrence
Luís Vaz de Camões (1524-80) and Winston Spencer Churchill (WSC 1874-1965). (FromLast week)
