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Column | Jigi Bigi Ratim by Andrew L Dcunha

Thetruebeautyofliteratureliesinitsabilitytobecherished bypeople.Such writingtranscends time,continuing toflow acrossgenerations with enduring relevance. No award or recognition can define or confine the reach of such literature. Cha. Fra. De Costa was one such poet whose literary works carried remarkabledepth, shaped profoundly bythe richnessof hislife experiences. The intensity and layered meaning of his poetry demand thoughtful readinganddeepliterarysensibility.Presented hereisacompelling analysisofhiscelebrated poem Jigi Bigi Ratim by Andrew L D'Cunha,offering readersacloserlookintothepoeticbrillianceof Cha. Fra. DeCosta.

READ

KBS (Konkani Beyond Scripts) a mission by Ashawadi Prakashan dedicated to the digitization and dissemination of multi-script Konkani literature proudly presents yet another audiobook initiative. Beginning June 2026, an audiobook series featuring 50 short stories by Catherine Rodrigues will be broadcast digitally.

Bai Catherine Rodrigues is a versatile and prolific writer, widely recognized in both Konkani and Tulu literary circles, though particularly celebrated for her contributions to Tulu literature. With a literary career spanning over 100 dramas, 250 short stories, and numerous poems, she has made a significant contribution to regional literature.

(The KBS Mission by Ashawadi Prakashan is being organized jointly with St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa–Goa and DCT's Dhempe College (Autonomous), Miramar–Goa, in collaboration with Goa Konkani Akademi, Dalgado Konkani Akademi, and Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Akademi).

This audiobook initiative aims to bring her rich literary legacy to a wider audience through digital platforms. Listen to this beautiful story: https://youtu.be/OmHpCY8VfKM

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Over Competition”

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Sujith James Noronha (53), son of the late Valerian Noronha and Jessie Noronha,husbandofOliveaPaulineNoronha,fatherofLukeRomanNoronha andLisaNatashaNoronha,brother ofSunil/Shaira,Sudeep /Irene,Suman/ AnandMenezesandSuraj/Aruna,son in-lawof Flora Mascarenhas,brother in-law of Oliver / Anita, nephew of the late Fr Peter S Noronha, the late Sr Clemence UFS andSr Consolatha UFS, passed away on Thursday, May28, 2026.

(B.Ed)

Congress isformally embracing 'Decay',giving 'Shi'ttopeople'smandate.

TheChocolate Boywitha Powerhouse of Talents

Mangalore hasgifted Indiaand the world with several exceptional talents who have made their mark across cinema, music, dance, and entertainment. Renowned personalities such as Freida Pinto, Rakshit Shetty, NihalTauro, Terence Lewis, Roopesh Shetty, and Sonal Monteirostandasshiningexamples of the region’s rich creative spirit andartisticexcellence.

Among the many talented personalities emerging from Mangalore, Ashwin D’Costa is a name that is quickly capturing

attention. Known for his charm, confidence, and passion for the entertainment world, Ashwin is steadily building astrong presence through his multiple talents and dedication. His rise showcases the vibrant artistic culture that Mangalore proudly continues to nurture.

AshwinD’CostaisapopularKonkani singer, composer, and performer, widely recognized for his contributions to modern Konkani musicthroughindependent albums and music videos. He has lent his voice to several well-loved tracks, including Eklench Tum , Ritya Botaann , Tunch Tum , and Jeeva Mhoja1,among others. Inaddition to playback singing for three Konkanifilms,healsoshowcasedhis musical versatility by composing tunes for songs like Eklench Tum, JeevaMhoja1&2,Manglura&many more.

He holds an intermediate-level certification in Carnatic music from Kelvin Jayakanth Studios, Malaysia,

and has performed in over 400 stage shows across India and abroad. Over the years, he has shared the stage with renowned artists such as Usha Uthup, Anuradha Paudwal, Remo Fernandes, and Guru Kiran, along with several celebrated Konkani music legends. Notably, he has performed in the presence of former President of India, Mrs. Pratibha Patil and former Chief Minister of Goa, Mr. Digambar Kamat.

Ashwin first gained recognition withintheMangaloreancommunity after emerging as the runner up in the Konkani reality show SOAD Season 4. With his impressive performances and rising popularity, he later returned as one of the judges for SOAD Season 5, reflecting his growth and recognition in the Konkani entertainment industry. Beyond hismusicalpursuits, hehas alsogained recognition asanactor, having played the lead role in the Konkani film Osmitay , which was released across more than 15 countries and screened at the DC South Asian Film Festival 2023 in Washington, D.C. With its strong

storytelling, cultural richness, soulful music, andimpressive visual presentation, Osmitay received immense appreciation from audiences and went on to become oneof thehighest-grossing filmsin the history of Konkani cinema, marking a significant milestone for theindustry.

Ashwin earned the title of Mr. Photogenic 2011 at the Cultural World Convention, receiving the award from former Karnataka Chief Minister,Mr.H.D.Kumaraswamy. Healsoshowcased hisactingtalent through the Konkani musical film Mog Mulyar, where heappeared as part of themulti starrer supporting cast. Produced by Rebimbus Creations alongside United Youngsters, the film stands out for blending theatrical expression with artistic visual storytelling. Over the years, he has featured in several well-received musical singles, including APD Music’s Savli Zavn ,

JeevaMhoja1&2,Manglura , and manymore.

His portrayal alongside Clarina Noronha in the animated music video YouCureMyLoveby View Series beautifully added warmth, charm, andemotional depth to the song. Released inJanuary 2024, the video turned out to be a visual delight foraudiences, withAshwin’s expressive animated character leavingamemorable impression.

Based in Bengaluru, Ashwin is a Senior Software Engineer by profession and currently holds the position of Manager atKPMG India Pvt. Ltd. His academic background includes an MSc in Software Technology from St. Aloysius College, Mangaluru. Seamlessly balancing his corporate career with his artistic passions, he continues to build a dynamic and inspiring journey in the world of performing artsandmusic.

Ashwinisalsoknown forbeing part of the growing wave of modern Konkani independent music, where

artistscombinetraditionallanguage and themes with contemporary musical styles, helping the genre reachyounger audiences.

Ashwin enjoys immense popularity not only among the youth and elders but also among children. He recently served asone of the three judgesforKrisben LittleStar2026, a global online Konkani song talent contestforchildren.

Born to Precilla and Antony Peter D’costa, Ashwin was raised in a deeply religious and God-fearing family alongside his younger sister, Ashvitha D’costa, who is currently working in Dubai. His family has always been a strong pillar of support throughout his journey, motivating him to pursue his

passion while remaining grounded andconnected tohisroots.

Apart from his artistic pursuits, Ashwin is also passionate about cooking, gardening, and photography.

His debut musical concert will be held on7th June 2026 atthe iconic Chowdiah Memorial Hall in Bengaluru, marking akeymilestone in his journey. Hosted by the Konkani Catholic Association of Mathikere for their Diamond Jubilee, the event reflects his growth, experience, and readiness totakethestage.

Ashwin is set to touch hearts with his new single “Amchi O’dhuri Kanni,”asoulfulblend ofmusicand emotion. Written, composed, and rendered by Ashwin himself, the song features him in the lead role alongside newcomer Sharon Dsouza. The music has been beautifully crafted by Rosh Fernandes, adding depth and emotion tothismelodious project. Produced by VaniRavikumar under Dhyan Productions, the song was extensively shot amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Chikkamagaluru. The video is

directed by Danel Jaison, while Prajwal Suvarna has beautifully handled the cinematography and editing, adding visual depth and charmtotheproject.

“Amchi O’dhuri Kanni” will be officially released on June 7 during Ashwin D’Costa’s live concert at Chowdiah MemorialHall. Despite hisremarkable successand growing popularity, Ashwin continues to maintain asimple and approachable personality that makeshimrelatable topeople from all walks of life. He carries a warm and friendly presence that instantly makes others feel comfortable

around him. Admirers often describe him as someone who remains grounded regardless of his achievements, and this quality has earned him immense respect both withinandoutside theindustry.

Ashwin’s ability to combine talent withsimplicityandhardworkserves as a reminder that true success is notonlymeasuredbyfame,butalso by character, dedication, and the impactoneleavesonothers.

“Cockroach Zindaa Hai,” Jai Ho Cockroach Janata Party!

Gabriel Vaz

recent controversial remark widely considered inappropriate for a person of thestature ofthe highest judicial office –that too, a Constitutional postlike ChiefJustice of India (CJI), has suddenly given birth to a brand-new political party in the world’s largest democracy in

terms of voters has suddenly become aninternet sensation. CJP or the Cockroach Janata Party,noaffiliationtotherulingBJP or Bharatiya Janata Party, has become an overnight internet sensation overtaking established politicalpartiesandevenpoliticalas well as social activists by surprise with its enormous appeal and attraction to the millennial younger generation better known asGen-Z! The viral online rise of Gen-Z supported CJP satirical movement has rightly sent alarms, especially afterthe political turmoil witnessed in neighbouring earlier in SriLanka, Bangladesh andNepalleading to

unprecedented upheavals. What if, India’smassiveGen-Zforceangered at the mounting unemployment, ever-widening economic disparities and spiralling poverty and many other ills plaguing the country took tothestreets?

the past, India did witness sporadic student revolts and rebellion creating huge uproar and even leading to some minor politicalcrises. Thankfully,theangst of students did not spread to the entire country and majority of the youth kept off from the revolutionary path! Not just Cockroaches, Parasites too!

As is widely known, the CJI Justice Surya Kant, while hearing a lawyer’s petition before the bench headed by him questioning the Delhi High Court’s refusal for not designating him as “senior advocate” and also the process for conferring the honour, tersely remarked that some unemployed youth behave “like cockroaches” and “become social media or RTI activists’ to attack the system, callingsuchindividuals "parasites of society.”

ThatwasintheSupreme Court onMay15,2026.

There was nationwide online outrage against the CJI for his offensive remark dubbing the

“unemployed youth” of India as “cockroaches” and “parasites,” who while failing to secure jobs, were virtually ridiculed for joining the media, engaging in social media or becoming“RTIactivists”toallegedly “attackthesystem.”

The insensitive remarks by the CJI in his courtroom, coming at a time when vast sections of society, especially the younger generation are frustrated because of lack of employment opportunities when the country is pitching itself as the world’s third largest economy amidst mounting inflation, chronic joblessness and massive job losses inurbanandmore so,inruralareas, afterPrime MinisterNarendra Modi government diluted the UPA regime’s flagship scheme of MGNREGA guaranteeing 100 days ofwork inayeartothepoor!

The CJI’s remarks tend to demean millions of countries unemployed youth despite college

education andexplainwhytheGenZfelthumiliated andgotangry.

“There arealready parasites of society, who attack the system and youwanttojoinhandswith them?” the CJI asked the lawyer, and went on to comment, “There are youngsters like cockroaches, who don’t get any employment and don’t have any place in the profession. Some of them become media,someofthembecome social media, some of them become RTI activists, some of them become other activists, and they start attacking everyone.” (Thequoteis asreportedbythereputedlegal correspondent ofThe Times of India,DhananjayMahapatra) “Beware,we’rewatching” Asthelawyerpersistedwithhis plea that the Delhi HC was not following the procedure laid down bythe apexcourtitself inletter and spirit, the bench askedhimwhether he had no other case with him to engage in litigation for his own designation.

“Designation of senior advocate is conferred, not pursued by lawyers,” added Justice Joymala Bagchi, the other member of the bench.

After the bench was informed that the process for designating senior advocates was currently underway in the HC, CJI Kant observed: “The whole world might be eligible for senior designation, but at least you are not. If the HC makes you senior, we will set it aside, seeing your professional conduct.”

In an obvious reference to the process of verification of the law degrees ofthoseseekingtoenrolas advocates, the CJI said he had serious doubts about the genuineness of the law degrees of many advocates given the kind of materialtheypostonsocial media.

“Do you think we are not watching,” he bluntly admonished thepetitioner lawyer. CJIKantforcedtoclarify

An embarrassed lawyer, obviously chagrined bythetonguelashing administered to him by no less a person than the Chief Justice of India, meekly withdrew his plea afterbeing permitted by the bench todoso.

However, the CJI’s remarks terming the“unemployed youth”as “cockroaches and parasites,” created such a furore all over the country and perhaps even abroad online that he was compelled to clarifyon thenextdayclaimingthat he was misquoted and apologetically pointed out that he was only referring to persons entering a profession with “fake degrees.”

The CJI also made itclear that he was not referring to youth “in general whether employed or unemployed.” He termed the news reports linking his comment on cockroaches totheyouthas“totally baseless” and said, “Not only am I proud of our present and future humanresource, buteveryyouth of

Indiainspires me...Itoo,seethemas thepillars ofadeveloped India.”

In his formal clarification issued on the very next day of the outburst in open court, CJI Kant asserted that he was heavily misquoted bysections ofthemedia and explained that his anger was strictly reserved for “parasites” who infiltrate noble fields like law, journalism and social media using fake or bogus degrees, reiterating that he holds immense pride and respect for India’slegitimate youth, whom he views as the pillars of a developed nation.

The clarification and explanation is fine and, of course, was necessary. It is, however, not clear as to whom he (CJI) was referring to for possessing “fake or bogus degrees!” Surely, the apex court is well within its rights to demand an explanation from the Centre andordersuitable corrective measures.

Whatwasleftunanswered was the need for making such a sweeping an unnecessarily provocative and insensitive remark, when the issue before the bench had absolutely nothing to do with the merits of the case being heard

(unless there were genuine doubts about the credentials of thepetitionerlawyer!)

WhoisAbhijeetDipke?

Even before the CJI, obviously rattledbytheonline uproaroverhis comments, issued the clarification, what took the entire country by surprise was the action taken by a 30-year-old Indian student in the US,Abhijeet Dipke.

Dipke is a political communication strategist and recently graduated from Boston University with a two-year master’s degree in public relations, by floatingabrand-new politicalparty, Cockroach JanataParty(CJP), which

wasevidently intended asasnubto the ruling BJP.Originally hailing from Sambajinagar in Maharashtra, Dipke had completed his undergraduate degree in Journalism in Pune before moving to the United States for higher education.

Known for his work in digital political messaging, narrative building and online campaign strategy, Dipke has worked with former Delhi Chief Minister’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) between 2020 and 2023 when he was involved in AAP’s social media and Election Campaign Operations.

As a swift and possibly spontaneous response totheonline uproar by the Gen-Z over the CJI’s remarks deriding unemployed youth as cockroaches and parasites aimed at attacking the system, Dipke announced the launch of a “platform for all the cockroaches outthere”onXonthenightpriorto May 16 before CJIKant could issue hisclarification.

CockroachisCJPSymbol

Dipke listed the “eligibility criteria” formembership of thenew politicaloutfit,CJP,asbeingopento those who are “unemployed, lazy,

chronically online and capable of rantingprofessionally.”

The new party’s website went live on May 16 under the social media platform X with the tagline, “voiceofthelazyandunemployed.” Within 48 hours, CJP claimed over 40,000 registered members.

The CJP is a satirical, Gen-Z driven political movement, unregistered with the Election Commission of India (ECI). It uses humour, memes and online activism to express frustration over mounting unemployment, spiralling inflation, unbridled corruption, frequent

exam paper leaks and ineffective mainstreampolitics.

Vocal supporters comprising unemployed youthturnedtheinsult of being branded by the CJI as cockroaches andparasites, byusing Cockroachasa“symbolofresilience andsurvival.”

The online movement grew rapidly on social media platforms. Within78hoursofCJP’slaunch,the Instagramaccountcrossed3million followers. It then surpassed 10 million in under five days, overtaking theofficialhandleof the ruling BJP.Ithasreportedly crossed 30 million within eight days of its launch.Remarkable indeed!

As of May22, 2026, the account displayed over 20 million followers. The movement also crossed 200,000 followers on X and claims to have registered over 350,000 members through online forms.

Vocal supporters of CJP, turnedthe“insult”ofbeingbranded as“cockroaches and parasites” into a symbol of resilience and survival justlike the insect.

Within four days following the launch, the party’s Instagram account crossed over 12 million followers, turning itinto one of the biggest viraltrends on socialmedia overtaking even the ruling BJP, which was boasting of itself being the party with the world’s largest membershipamongpoliticaloutfits. It even threatened to emerge as a platform for motivating the multitudes of angry Gen-Z to mobilise themselves as a potent force and galvanise into action as had happened in several countries, especially neighbouring Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka leadingtopolitical upheavals.

Celebrity endorsements from prominentfigures

CJI Kant’s insensitive remarks sparked widespread condemnation andignited anonlinefirestorm with criticsattributingthelanguageused by the CJI in open court as “dehumanising” with some terming it a “constitutional crisis.”

Opposition RJD MP Manoj Kumar Jha argued that it offended the “spirit of democracy” while NCP’s Rohit Pawar felt it reflected the “extreme intolerance towards critics.”

Asthemovementcontinues to garner support, attract followers in thousands andevenpolitical aswell as social activists with the likes of TMC’s fiery MP Mahua Moitra, multi-lingual actor Prakash Raj and many more. Even the most articulate Congress MP Shashi Tharoor voiced support fortheviral satirical social media phenomenon ‘Cockroach JanataParty.’

Tharoor said the movement’s rapid rise, reportedly attracting millions of followers in just days, reflects the deep frustration among young people. The emergence of the satirical movement presents an opportunity for the Opposition to connect with public discontent and convertitintopolitical engagement through democratic means.

Responding to reports of the account being withheld on X in India, Tharoor said a healthy democracy must make space for humour, satire, criticism and free public expression instead of silencing such voices. Hefurthernotedthatthepopularity of the online movement shows many youngsters are eager for change and want their concerns to be acknowledged.

According to Tharoor, this rising digital wave could eventually have an impact on mainstream politics and political parties should payattention tothemessage being sentbytheyounger generation.

Germany-based Indian YouTuber with huge online followinghasalsoextendedsupport to CJP movement and has announced thathe would soon join the collective. Other prominent supporters include acclaimed climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has described himself as “honorary cockroach” ad social activistAnjaliBhardwaj. Even leading figures from Indian film and comedy spheres have also voiced support to the movement on social media. They include filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, comedian KunalKumara andactors Konkona Sen Sharma, Fatima Sana Shaikh, DiaMirzaandEshaGupta. Surprisingly, social activist Anna Hazare has also expressed support for young people rallying behind CJP suggesting that the government shouldencourage such youth participation rather than ignore it. “Youth power is national power,” said Hazare and urged the

government to listen to the concerns raisedbyyouth.

Ousted West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC boss Mamata Banerjee and hernephew Abhishek Banerjee have extended support while TMC MP Derek O’Brien said “CJP is fighting a good fight” and described the movement as a reflectionoftheyouthconcernsand online political dissent.

Activist-advocate Prashant Bhushan has joined the CJP bandwagon andmentioned thatCJI Kant’s comments “reflected deeprooted prejudice and antipathy towards activists and youth in general."

Bhushan urged the CJP to use apex court’s platforms to highlight the NEET paper leak, demand accountability from Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhanandcalledfor a "right to employment" law providing jobs or unemployment allowances for citizens between 21 and60years ofage.

Dipke, however, has made it clear that he has no objection to political leaders extending support totheCJPmovement butwouldnot likethemtojoinandseekcontrolof theGen-Z powerunleashedbyhim!

NationalSecurityThreat?

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke has alleged a sweeping crackdown (obviously by the government) on the satirical digital movement, claiming all its social-media accounts as well its website have been taken down or compromised, leavingthe group without accessto anyofitsofficialplatforms.

The Modi regime, which is averse to anycriticism as is evident from punitive action taken against opposition party leaders, cracked down on CJP after Intelligence Bureau (IB) warning on possible unrest, allege Maharashtra Congress leaders

Dipke said his outfit has lost accesstoits Instagramaccounts, its Xhandlehasbeen withheldinIndia, itsbackupaccountwasbrieflytaken down and its website cockroachjantaparty.org has also been taken down.

“Please note that we currently do not have access to any of our platforms. Anypost made after this shouldnotbeconsidered anofficial statementfromtheCockroach Janta Party,"Dipke saidin aposton X.

Listing what he described as coordinated action against the

movement, Dipke wrote, "Crackdown on Cockroach Janata Party. Instagram page hacked. My personal Instagram hacked. Twitter account withheld. Back up account alsotaken down."

These claims came two days aftertheCJP'soriginalXhandle was withheld in India, prompting Dipke to create a new account. He had alsoalleged receiving death threats and shared screenshots of purported threatmessages online. WhatreallyisCJP?

The CJP describes itself as "a politicalfrontoftheyouth,bythe youth, for the youth,” with “Secular,Socialist,Democratic andLazy,”asthekeyyardsticks.

Dipke has stated that the campaign is not interested in becoming a traditional political party and has no interest in inducting established politicians into the platform, noting that "Gen Z wouldn't like it if current politicians joinedtheCJP."

CARES, holiday in Davos on the taxpayer's salary slip or rebrand corruption as'strategicspending.”

“We are here to ask, loudly, repeatedly, in writing, where the moneywent."

Further, CJP’s mission is described as: “Build a party for the young people who keep getting called lazy, chronically online, and most recently, cockroaches. That's it. That's the mission. The rest is satire.”

5-pointManifesto

Thepartyhasreleasedaformal five-point manifesto:

✓ No Chief Justice shall be granted a Rajya Sabha seat as a postretirement reward.

The party's vision on its website is stated by Dipke as: "We are not here to set up another PM

✓ If any legitimate vote is deleted, theChief Election Commissioner shall be arrested under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), as taking awayvoting rightsis“nolessthan

✓ Women shall receive 50% reservation (insteadof33%)without increasing the strength of Parliament; 50% of all Cabinet positions shall be reserved for women.

Industries (Ambani) shall have their licences cancelled to make way for independent media. Bank accounts of “Godi media anchors" shall be investigated.

✓ Any MLA or MP who defects from one party to anothershall be barred from contesting elections and holding public office for 20 years.

Additional points suggested by social activist Anjali Bhardwaj and accepted by the partyinclude:

✓ Theparty shallbe answerable undertheRTIAct

✓ Itshallnotestablish a "secretCockroach CARES Fund"(in reference tothe PM CARESFund)

WhocanbecomeCJPmembers?

✓ All media houses owned by theAdani Group andReliance

The eligibility criteria for Joining the CJP are

deliberately satirical:

✓ Unemployed (by force,bychoice or byprinciple):

✓ Lazy(refers onlytophysical activity);

✓ Chronically online (atleast11hours daily, includingbathroom breaks);

✓ Abilitytorantprofessionally (Content mustbe sharp,honest andpoint atsomething that matters; Theparty statesthatreligion, casteandgender arenot considered inthe membership process. GettingBJP’sGoat!

More thananybody, itwas the ruling BJP which was more perturbed bythe CJPphenomenon. CJP evidently got the goat of BJP because the viralGen-Z ledsatirical movement isperceived asa serious threat due to its rapid surge badly damaging its narrative and online dominance besides being seen as

the main reason for the growing unemployment during the 13-year rule ofModi.

Having amassed over 22 million Instagram followers in a matter of days, CJP has outpaced BJPs carefully cultivated official digitalpresenceandstrikinganerve amongdisillusioned youth.

Using sharply caustic and sarcastic me memes, the CJP is critically focussing deeply sensitive real-world issues like high unemployment, inflation and the more recent NEET question paper

leak that has become a regular feature in most of the competitive examinations inthe country.

More importantly, BJP is irked by thetaunts fromGen-Z overthe lack of accountability by the Modi regime and refusal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to quit owning moral responsibly.

BJP leaders and even Indian intelligence agencies indulged in veiled attacks and accusations of foreign interference while expressing alarm over the anger of

Gen-Z. They have been alleging CJP’s organic momentum in a couple of days as a “digital insurrection”andevenstatethatthe “large portion of CJP’s support is driven by bot networks originating in neighbouring Pakistan.” They have openly alleged that CJP supporters arefromPakistanorUSbased anti-India George Soros gang.

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, considered Modi’s blue-eyed boy in the cabinet, alleged that followers of CJP satirical digital platform “originate from Pakistan and networks linked to billionaire George Soros.” Other BJP leaders were quick to amplify the narrative with another Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar piping in by claiming, “49% CJP social media followers werefromPakistan.”

Dipke was quick to counter with realanalyticsdata.He released official screen recording of CJP account’s “meta business and analytics dashboard” clearly show “verified backend data (proved) over 94.1% of CJP’s audience is located in India while only a negligible fraction belonged to

other countries suchasUS (1%), UK (0.7%) andUAE(0.6%).” Heasserted that claims of BJP supporters’ on “49% Pakistan-following were fake andfabricated.”

CBIprobeintoCJPdemanded

Apetition hasbeen filedbyan advocate Raja Chaudhary before a bench of the Supreme Court headed byCJIKant alsocomprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi seeking action against CJP and persons allegedly involved inwhatitdescribed as“commercial exploitation of oral observations made by the apex court” and demanded a CBI probe into allegations “relating to fake advocates, fraudulent law degrees, impersonation within the legal profession and declining professional standards.”

Responding to submissions made by advocate N K Goswamy, representing the petitioner, seeking anurgentandout-of-turn listingon the ground thatthe issue hadbeen “distorted despite a clarification issued by the CJI,” the bench remarked.

“Thereisnograveurgency. We will consider it indue course,” said the bench adding: “Don’t take it so sentimentally.”

The petition filed by Chaudhary alleged that a digitalpolitical formation identifying itself asthe“CockroachJanataParty”had useddistorted interpretations ofthe court’s remarks to generate publicity, online engagement, circulation of merchandise, satire branding and possible commercial gain.

“Selective extraction and sensational dissemination of oral exchanges increasingly distort administration of justice and transform judicial proceedings into media spectacle…Constitutional morality cannot permit constitutional institutions or constitutional office holders to become vulnerable to organised digital humiliation, sociological gatekeeping, or commercially amplified outrage campaigns,” the plea said. The petition also sought directionsto“competentauthorities to examine and take action against

persons or entities allegedly involvedincommercialexploitation, trademark appropriation, monetised circulation or unauthorised commercial use of oral courtroom observations and symbolic expressions arising from proceedings before the Supreme Court of India, including activities associated with Cockroach Janata Party.”

“The issue concerns preservation not merely of institutional reputation, but of constitutional governance itself in the ageof viral algorithmic media,” Chaudharysaidinhispetition.

However, social media followers enthused by the CJP phenomenon have publicly declaredthemselvesascockroaches and have gone to the extent of posting with the hashtag #MainBhiCockroach” (translatedasI tooamacockroach).

The online movement of the Gen-Z followers of CJP, have also engaged in offline activities with volunteers participating in protests and clean-up drives dressed in cockroach costumes, the most notable being the cleaning drive of YamunaRiverthathasbeen dragging sincethelast13years of Modirule.

MAGNIFICA HUMANITAS

First Encyclical of Pope Leo XIV on Safeguarding the Human Person in the Time of Artificial Intelligence

The Holy Father Pope Leo XIV has written his first Encyclical entitled MagnificaHumanitas,(Magnificent Humanity) on safeguarding the human person in the time of Artificial Intelligence (AI). It was signed by the Pope on 15th May 2026, 135th AnniversaryofPopeLeo XIII’s Rerum Novarum and published on 25th May2026. Wearelivinginadigitalage.Weare inundated with Internet, Smartphones, social media, AI and all that digital technology imply every day, every moment. The younger generation, Gen -Z cannot live for a moment without digital gadgets and information technology. While Artificial Intelligence and digital technology can be of immense help in many ways, they also have vast potentialities formisuse.

ThepresentEncyclicalwillhelpusto

understand how to use digital technologyresponsibly, puttingitto good use while avoiding any misuse. Itprovides us thenecessary ethicalprinciples tojudge AIandall digital technology, always keeping in mind the respect formagnificent humanity thathasbeen given tous byGodasagift.

Pope Francis in his Message for 2024 World Day of Peace had chosen the theme “Artificial Intelligence and Peace” where the good Pope of happy memory had situated the issues of AI within the context of human dignity, peace and the common good. Pope Leo uses this Message as a significant Magisterial precedent for his Encyclical.

TheDicasteryfortheDoctrineofthe Faith also published an important document on 28 January 2025 entitled Antiqua etNova on the

relationship between artificial intelligence andhuman intelligence which provides us some ethical principles toguide usin the proper use of AI and digital technology. This document also serves as a good introduction or precedent to MagnificaHumanitas.

The Encyclical develops the above approach and gives us a decisive criterion: “technology must not be judged solely based on its effectiveness, but rather on the human, social and spiritual quality ofthebondsitfostersorhinders”.In other words, artificial intelligence cannotandmustnotreplacehuman intelligence but can help and assist it. The final decision must be taken by human beings and not by machines.

Apart from an Introduction and Conclusion, the Encyclical has five Chapters with 245 paragraphs and 224footnotes.

Pope Leo begins by describing the res novae (the new things) of our time, meaning social media, information technology, artificial intelligence and the digital age we are living in, just as Pope Leo XIII spoke in Rerum Novarum of the

newthings of histime i.e.Industrial Revolution and plight of workers 135years ago.

Chapter One deals with a Dynamic Approach Faithful to the Gospel where Pope Leo speaks of the wisdom of the Word of God in dialogue with human sciences and goesontogiveabriefhistoryofthe Social Doctrine of the Church from LeoXIIItopresentage.

In Chapter Two he dwells on the Foundations and Principles of the SocialDoctrineoftheChurch,where he emphasizes the dignity of the humanperson createdin theimage of God and gives various principles toguide us,e.g. equaldignity of all human beings, supreme value of human rights, principle of the common good, of universal distribution ofgoods, andprinciples of subsidiarity, solidarity, social justice and integral human development.

Chapter Three deals with Technology and the Grandeur of Humanity in the light of the Promises of AI. The Pope acknowledges AIas a valuable tool but warns that it requires vigilance, responsibility, transparency, and governance.

Chapter Four deals with Safeguarding Humanityatatime of Transformation, whereinthethemes of Truth, Work, Freedom etc. are elaborately dealt with. The Encyclicalspeaks of the central role of schools, dignity and value of work, problems of unemployment andtheneedtobreakthe chainsof new forms of slavery in the digital age.

Finally, Chapter Five deals with the CultureofPowerandtheCivilization of love, wherein the Pope affirms the need to create a civilization of love in the digital age and work towards peace in the world. Pope Leo invites us to work together not tobuild aTower of Babelbut a city ofJerusalem,thatis,thecityof peace,world ofpeace.

TheEncyclicalends withareference toMagnificat,thefamousPrayerof

Mother Mary as a song of hope which alsoserves aspartof thetitle ofthisEncyclical. The EncyclicalMagnificaHumanitas is in the final analysis a landmark statement of the Supreme Pontiff on thedignity ofthe humanperson and an appeal to Church and Society to respect the dignity of all humans in this digital age when we are tempted to put technology above humanity, andmachines and gadgets above thehuman person.

+Gerald John Mathias BishopofLucknow

COMMUNICATIONS MUST BE HUMAN

- *FrCedric Prakash SJ

The Catholic Church observed the 60th World Day of Social Communications on 17 May 2025. In his first message for this significant day, Pope Leo XIV focussed on the need for and importance of 'Preserving Human Voices and Faces'. The message whichwaswrittenonthefeastofthe patron of communications, St FrancisdeSales(24January2026), is incisive and highlights some of the major challenges which modern communications facetoday.

Throughout his message, Pope Leo insists that communications must be human.For this,hesetsthetone in his opening paragraph stating,

"Ourfacesandvoicesareunique, distinctivefeaturesofeveryperson; they reveal a person’s own unrepeatable identityandarethe defining elements of every encounterwithothers.Theancients understoodthiswell.Todefinethe humanperson,theancientGreeks usedtheword “face”(prósōpon), becauseitexpressesetymologically whatisbeforeone’sgaze,theplace ofpresenceandrelationship. The Latin term “person” (frompersonare),ontheotherhand,evokes the idea of sound: not just any sound,buttheunmistakablesound ofsomeone’svoice."

Hegoes ontoemphasise thatfaces and voices are sacred since every humanbeingiscreatedintheimage and likeness of God. This nonnegotiable truth is our very first Catechism lesson and the basic of

Catholic Social Teaching. Every human is endowed with a dignity which comes from God. Pope Leo asserts thathumanfacesandvoices must be preserved since they are indelible reflections of God's love. He further adds, "Each of us possesses an irreplaceable and inimitablevocation,thatoriginates fromourownlivedexperienceand becomes manifest through interactionwithothers".

He feels that "The challenge, therefore,isnottechnological,but anthropological.Safeguardingfaces and voices ultimately mean safeguardingourselves.Embracing theopportunitiesofferedbydigital technologyandartificialintelligence with courage, determination and discernmentdoesnotmeanturning a blind eye to critical issues, complexitiesandrisks".

PopeLeomincesnowords intaking on Artificial Intelligence (AI), saying that it reduces our ability to listen, thinkcriticallyanditincreases social polarisation. AI he is convinced, threatens todiminish our cognitive, emotional and communication skills. It erodes our ability to think analytically and creatively to

understand meaning and distinguish between syntax and semantics. He highlights the wayAI hastaken control ofseveralaspects of human living. AI in many ways seems to have numbed the humaneness of an ordinary human being. He cautions, "However, renouncing creativity and surrenderingourmentalcapacities andimaginationtomachineswould meanburyingthetalentswehave beengiventogrowasindividualsin relationtoGodandothers.Itwould meanhidingourfacesandsilencing ourvoices".

Towards theendofhismessage, he speaks about the fact that digital innovation cannotbestopped butit is necessary for each one of us to raiseourvoice indefence ofhuman persons so that we can truly assimilate these tools as allies. He states,"Thisallianceispossible,but needs to be based on three pillars:responsibility, cooperationandeducation" . He then elucidates each of these components which areinter-related butareessentialinensuringthatall communications arehuman.

Inthis powerful message, Pope Leo poses to all communicators, very specially to Catholic communicators, several serious challenges. Among them are: Are weprepared todoserious research, critical thinking and communications with a human face? How many Catholic communicators in India have written extensively about the Special Investigative Revision (SIR) that has been taking place in India and disenfranchising millions of legitimate citizens?Howmanyhave written about whatis happening to the minorities in the country? How many have taken a stand against what is happening to the Adivasis and Dalits in the country? Have we been vocal against what is happening in the Car Nicobar Islands?

JustusingAImightgive usacertain perspective very easily. But we should beaware thatthis viewpoint maybe manipulative and cater mainly to those who try to control our lives anddestinies. Therefore, it

isimportant toengage with thereal issue in a proactive, grassroots and critical manner to help us arrive at the truth. Sadly, in most cases, Catholiccommunicators inIndiaare trapped bythenew-age technology which often, as Pope Leo reminds us,takes us awayfromwhatis right andwhatistrue.

In his concluding statements, Pope Leo makes it abundantly clear, "We needfacesandvoicestospeakfor peopleagain.Weneedtocherish thegiftofcommunication asthe deepesttruthofhumanity,towhich alltechnologicalinnovationshould alsobeoriented".

Do we Catholic communicators in India have the courage to make Pope Leo's message a reality in our communications?

20May 2026

* (Fr Cedric Prakash SJ is a human rights reconciliation and peace activist and writer. Contact: cedricprakash@gmail.com)

Catastrophe is coming for Putin as the Ukraine war looks now like disastrous defeat for Russia

Putin Back on 2_2026 State Media

Photo

Summary and Key Points: As Russia's economy buckles under sanctionsanddronestrikes onitsoil infrastructure, the elite consensus around Vladimir Putin is showing visible cracks with a wellconnected business leader telling The Guardian there is now "profound disappointment inPutin" and a growing sense that "some kind of catastrophe is looming." FormerUSSpecialEnvoyforUkraine Kurt Volker told PBS Frontline that "things arecrumbling aroundPutin" andnowopenlydiscusses scenarios where Ukraine could retake Crimea

— an eventuality that was almost impossible to foresee just two months ago.

Putin Can' Escape His Ukraine Mistake

Tu-160 Bomber from Russia. Image Credit: Creative Commons. ©Tu160 Bomber fromRussia. Image Credit: Creative Commons. Noendofbadnewskeeps pilingup forRussianPresidentVladimirPutin. Theworstofitisthatthemore time goes by, the more there is a sense thathisinvasion of Ukraine was the most fatal of a long string of bad decisions. Theendofhisrule, which may be closer than anyone thinks, may also be the beginning of the endofRussiaasweknowit.

The increasing trend is that the worse conditions become inside of Russia, the more of the nation’s oil and gas industry is destroyed, and the higher the casualty figures for Moscow’s military climb, the less

anyone sees of Putin or hears him makecomments toaddresswhathe intends to do about it.Whatseems to be the former KGB Lt. Col.’s isolation fromtheoutside worldhas even forced the Kremlin to deny that he is being told the true situation inthe nation.

“No. It is not so,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov said publicly back in April. “Putin is the headofstate, andhispowers mean he deals with the widest range of issuesontheagenda.”

However, the level of confidence behind that statement appears not to be shared by the upper elites in Russia.

The overall sense, said the UK Guardian newspaper this past weekend, is that the increasingly negative consequences of the February 2022 invasion have “broken Putin’s unwritten contract with the Russian public.” This contract is the public’s pledge that “we do not get involved in politics and trying to gain power for ourselves - but only as long as the stateactsinourbestinterests.”

Related video: Senior Ukrainian commander sees imminent 'turning point' inwar(Reuters)

Reuters

SeniorUkrainian commander sees imminent 'turning point'in war He commands the 3rd Army Corps, one ofUkraine's

It Is Too Late to Save The Situation Now in the Ukraine War

“There’s definitely been a shift in mood among the elites this year … thereisprofounddisappointment in Putin,” a man described as a wellconnected business leader told the Guardian for along assessment published last weekend. There is nowinRussia“agrowing sensethat some kind of catastrophe is

T-84 TankfromUkraine War.Image

Credit: Creative Commons. ©T-84 Tank from Ukraine War. Image Credit: Creative Commons.

T-84 Tank Ukraine. Image Credit: Creative Commons. ©T-84 Tank Ukraine. Image Credit: Creative Commons.

“No one believes everything will suddenly collapse tomorrow,” the source told the UK daily. “Butthere is a growing realization that utterly senseless, self-destructive decisions keep being made. People who defended Putin no longer do. Any senseofafuturehasdisappeared.”

Ask a Pro: "I'm 65 With $1.1M Saved. What's My Retirement Budget?"

The two authors also know the political landscape and the

country's situation well. One is ShawnWalker,whoreported forthe Guardian from Moscow for more thanadecade,andPjotrSauer,who reports from there now and is the son of thelate Derek Sauer. The elder Sauer was the 1990s champion of trying to build a free press in what was then Boris Yeltsin’s Russia and is famous for founding theEnglish-language MoscowTimes.

They are also not alone in their pessimistic view of how, as former US Special Envoy for Ukraine Kurt Volker told Frontline this week, “things are crumbling around Putin.” The level to which Putin’s empire is flailing about to no good effectin its battlefield operations in Ukraine makes him andothers now even talk about scenarios where Ukraine could retake Crimea, said the former Washington envoy. This is an eventuality that was almost impossible to foresee even two months ago.

RisingInstability

The combination ofdrone attacks, internet blackouts, and the continuing downturn in theRussian economy is combining into a perfect storm of discontent that contributes to a growing sense of instability in Moscow, concluded anotherlong essay in The New Yorker fromthree weeks ago. But,astheNewYorkerprofile points out,“Justabouteveryonewouldlike to stop the war tomorrow—that’s obvious,” a well-known member of Russia’s political élite told the magazine. “There’s not a single person, other than Putin and the militarybrass,whowantstokeepon fighting.Butnoonewouldeverdare toexpresstheirdispleasure.”

In a separate interview with Farida Rustamova, founder of the newsletter, Vlast, a Russian word meaning “political power”, the New Yorker writer Joshua Yaffa concludes that the recent series of events“hascreatedasensethatthe political system is at once tightly controlled andutterlyrudderless.”

“On the one hand, the regime is more airless than ever,” said Rustamova. “All the screws have been tightened to the max, but it’s

also never been as chaotic and unpredictable. The old rules are breaking down, and no one knows what the new ones are, or whether theyexistatall.”

The Ukraine war has created a fundamental sense of despair, and that probably has eroded the supportofthepopulation toaslittle as“lessthan20percent”saidVolker inthesame broadcast.

The war has tested but not yet broken the loyalty of the Russian public to their “Tsar” Putin, according to the conclusions of almost all current analyses, including those of two Russianbased analysts who spoke to NationalSecurityJournal.

Butthe only hope – and itis afaint one – is that someone with influence over Putin, such as the Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping, would convince him that a ceasefire is the onlyway toprevent Russia from eventually collapsing. Otherwise, this war will go on until some catastrophe tears the country apart.

About the Author: Reuben F. Johnson

Reuben F. Johnsonhas thirty-six

years of experienceanalyzingandreporting on foreign weapons systems, defense technologies, and international arms export policy. JohnsonistheDirectorofResearch attheCasimir Pulaski Foundation. HeisalsoasurvivoroftheRussian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.Heworkedforyearsinthe American defense industry as a foreigntechnologyanalystandlater

as a consultant for the U.S. Department of Defense, the DepartmentsoftheNavyandAir Force,andthegovernmentsofthe UnitedKingdom andAustralia.In 2022-2023,hewontwoawardsina rowforhisdefensereporting. He holds a bachelor's degree from DePauwUniversityandamaster's degree from Miami University in Ohio,withaspecializationinSoviet and Russian studies. He lives in Warsaw.

Pleasefollow National Security JournalonMSNforthelatestnews in defense, foreign policy, economics, and politics with a bipartisantwist.

Rayan, the Ruler!

FMNandagaon.

Historically, we Paravars were involved in sea-related activities such as pearl diving, fishing, navigation, boat building, chank (conchshell)cuttingandthemaking of salt and overseas trading. These occupations were thought of as being low and ritually polluting occupations. Hence, we were kept away from the mainstream of the society.Asoftoday,weParavarsare classified as a most backward community in most of Tamil Nadu and as a Scheduled caste in Kanniyakumari District and Shenkottai taluk of Tirunelveli DistrictbytheGovernment ofTamil Nadu.”

At this time, I noticed that Mr Rayanhastoldallthiswith pain.But

he had not fully answered to my questions Iraisedearlier.

“Sir,whatyouhavenarratedsofar speaks about the Tamil Paravars, but you claimed you belonged to Kannada speaking Paravar community” Ienquired.

“Yes Father, we are from Kannada speaking ParawarCatholic Christians, Kanarese Christian community. Hoyasala of Dwarasamudra had come up to Tuticorin. Earliertothat,Pulikeshiof Chalukya dynasty, based in Vatapi todays Badami had defeated Cholas.Accordingtothebestofour knowledge, bythefifteenthcentury, wewere employees ofVijayanagara rulers. Then these rulers had their control uptoKanyakumari insouth. The scholars have identified three

groups who called themselves Paravars. It is said that their common root were the mostly Christian Tamil-speaking Paravars, the other groups were the Kanarese-speaking Paravars, who were umbrella makers and devildancers and the Malayalamspeaking Paravars, who were lime burners, gymnasts, midwives and shellcollectors. Ithasbeenassumed that the splitting of the latter two groups fromthefirstmayhavebeen because of a desire to move away from the ancient tribal area when faced with the arrival of Muslims. Along with the mainstream, we the Kanarese-speaking Paravars also embraced Catholicism. In due course we became cloth merchants.”

Though Mr Rayan had unfolded many historical events of their community,noneofthetimehehad given any explanations about his family surname Fernandiz. I took some liberty toaskaboutthis.

“Mr Rayan, you did not give any explanations about the way you acquired the Portuguese name as yoursurnameorfamilyname.”

“Sorry Father, I was just deeply involved in history and could not come tothepoint youarereferring. Ours was probably a primarily endogamous society, until the arrival of the Portuguese, marrying only within their own community. Subsequently we became exogamous and from this came the use of names based on Portuguese origin. Family names such as Fernando, Costa, da Cruz, Leon, Mascarennas, Machado and Roche are a direct consequence of these marriages, and familiar names, such as Susai a Tamil translation of Joseph, reflect both the marriages and the general Portuguese influence. The use of Christian familynames was infacta privilege granted to us by the Portuguese and deemed to be a sign of our superiority over other communities such as the Mukkavars, Nadars andothers.

There are manyfamily names of non-Christian origin stillincommon use in Paravars. To name few, we have Kalingarayan, Villavarayan, Poobalarayan and Rayan. These names have their origin in arayan, which was used by Tamil fishing

groups asacastetitle.Andtheterm Rayan has been derived from Raya, the rajah, king. And when you call Mr Rayan, you are referring me as Rajah. Even in French and Persian toungue Raymeansking.”

My unsuppressed curiosity and the family proud of Mr Rayan put gather, unveiled theinteresting and rich history of Paravar Catholic ChristiansofTamilNadu.Apartfrom this my understanding of our Kannada Catholics was also enriched. We are finding difficulty in solving the regional language issue in our Karnataka state where officiallanguage isKannada,butwe are not aware that, we have KannadaCatholicChristiansinsome parts of Tamil Nadu. I am not interested in marking the events as right and wrongs happened in the history. But I am amazed by the efforts of the missionaries of yesteryears andtheunquestionable devotional trust, the Paravar Catholic Christians showed in their faithatthe time ofdistress suffered by the community. They were converted to Christianity of Portuguese. And they embraced MotherMaryastheironlyhope and

none of the time changed their loyalty. Portuguese practiced Catholic Christian faith, and their rivals practiced Protestant Christian faith. While they were lured by Dutch and British to shun the Catholic faith and join their Protestant faith, they did not change a bit and remained loyal to Mother Mary, the Catholic faith. I felt, being a history student, it is worthy to spare time to know such unknown facts of our Christian History ofthisland.

“Father, this is our story, rich history of our community. Father, you should visit our place Thoothukkudi a seat of a basilica and have audience of Our Lady of Snows and be blessed by her. One should not miss to see the Golden ChariotOurLadyofSnows.”

I felt, MrRayan himself expressed my desire of urge of visiting the Basilica. Our Lady of Snows Shrine Basilica is one of the Catholic pilgrimage centres in India dedicatedtotheOurLadyofSnows, a title given to St. Mary. The Shrine namerefers totheBasilicadiSanta MariaMaggiore inRome.

“Thank you very much for the invitation and mind-blowing family history story. I will pay visit to the shrineandseekherblessings.Ionce again thank you for enhancing my knowledge of Christianity in Indian subcontinent, with specialreference toTamilNaducoastalarea.”

Bidding themgood night,Istarted walkingbacktoourpresbytery near the church. Whenever we rarely go

out,sometimes ithappenstoreturn verylate.The coldfooditems could not be eaten with ease. Today without murmuring I finished by dinner and went to my room. This made Mr Chourappa our cook, to wonder about my unusual behaviour. I was almost lost in the Thoothukkudi Basilica till I reached tomybed.

FMNandagaon

32 Years of Love & Legacy: Harold and Dancy

D’Souza’s Marriage Continues to Inspire the World

Cincinnati, Ohio, USA: In a world where relationships areoftentested by time, challenges, misunderstandings, and changing priorities, the inspiring marriage journey of Harold D’Souza and Dancy D’Souza stands as a shining testimony of unconditional love, resilience,sacrifice,andGod’sgrace.

OnMay29,2026, HaroldandDancy D’Souza joyfully celebrate an extraordinary milestone of 32 years of happy married life spanning 11,688 memorable days and 384 beautiful months filled with faith, family bonding, compassion, friendship, and humanitarian service.

Maker, Creator, and Mentor of ’The D’Souza Family’ Henry D’Souza Father of Harold D’Souza,May 29, 1994 on Harold & Dancy's wedding day.

An Arranged Wedding

Transformed into an Everlasting Friendship

“An Arranged Marriage may begin withtwofamilies,butaneverlasting marriage is built by two hearts choosinglove,forgiveness,sacrifice, friendship, and faith every single day.”

Just before being trafficked to United States of America at PAPA House, Bajpe, Mangalore. 11,688 Days • 384 Months • 32

Beautiful Years of Marriage, Humanity &Hope

Marriage BuiltonUnderstanding, Forgiveness &Respect

What began as an arranged wedding was transformed into a remarkable lifelong partnership rooted in understanding, forgiveness, respect, care, and commitment. Their marriage journeyreflectshowtruelovegrows stronger through patience and

humility, sacrifice, and standing together through every season of life.

Harold D’Souzaemotionally shared: “Behind every cheerful man is an understanding, forgiving, caring, loving, gracious, andcharminglady. ByGod’sgraceinmylife,itisDancy D’Souza, my wife. Marriage taught me that happiness is not found in perfection but in patience, sacrifice, forgiveness, and standing together duringthedarkestmomentsoflife.”

Harold often says their relationship evolved from: “An Arranged Wedding into an Everlasting Friendship.”

International inspirational speaker, Harold D’Souza further added: “Love is not about wealth, beauty, ego, or status. Love is about understanding, respecting,

Engagement celebrations in March 1994 at Mumbai.

listening, learning, forgiving, living, laughing, and growing together forever.

Dancy

D’Souza: The Pillar of Grace, Care &Compassion

Throughout their 32-year journey, HaroldandDancytransformed life’s

ArrangedWedding,HappyMarriage andHappy Family Forever.

struggles into strength and adversity into advocacy. Together, they built a peaceful and loving familywhileempowering vulnerable communities worldwide through Eyes Open International, a survivorled humanitarian organization dedicated to human rights, antihuman trafficking awareness, education, compassion, and freedom.

Dancy D’Souza reflected on their marriage with gratitude and humility: “Marriage is not a destination; itisadailycommitment

to care, compromise, forgiveness, and faith. We are not perfect people, but together we created a peaceful, respectful, and loving home for our children and community. God’s grace carried us through every season of life.” Bradly,

Cecilia D’Souza (My Loving Mother), Dancy, Harold and Rohan with our affectionate dogs at “PAPA”House,Mangalore.

Bradly & Rohan: The Pride and Inspiration oftheD’Souza Family

One of the greatest blessings of their married life was raising their

two inspiring sons, Bradly D’Souza andRohanD’Souza.

Bradly continues to inspire through his determination, perseverance, discipline, volunteerism, skydiving adventures, marathon participation, andcommitment toward familyand humanity. Harold proudly describes Bradly as: “A strong finisher who believes in Aim High, Achieve Higher, and Aspire Happiness Forever.”

Rohan, known for his visionary thinking, humility, compassion, and leadership, continues empowering youth and communities through humanitarian and human rights advocacy.Hiswisdomandcharacter reflect the values cultivated by Harold andDancythroughout their married lifejourney. Harold proudly shared; “Rohan is our navigator, advisor, and CFO of the D’Souza family. Rohan’s wisdom, vision, humility, and thoughtful guidance inspire usdaily. Asafamily,weseek Rohan’sadviceonbothprofessional and personal development. His leadership reflects faith, character, humility, compassion, and a commitment toward humanity and freedom.

Seven Timeless FamilyValuesthat

Family reunion in India January 2026.

Celebrations of events in India, January 2026

BuiltaStrong Foundation

The D’Souza family strongly believes successful marriage and parenting are rooted in seven timeless values taught by Harold’s loving father, Henry D’Souza: Discipline, Character, Education, Faith, Love, Respect, and Compassion.

Their inspiring family journey reflects the powerful belief that strong marriages cultivate strong families, compassionate children, peaceful communities, and meaningful service toward humanity.

From Trauma to Triumph: A Life Dedicated to Humanity

Over the years, Harold and Dancy’s life journey inspired people worldwide through theirmessageof transforming:

“Fear into Freedom, Hurt into Happiness, Trauma into Triumph, and Slavery intoSuccess.”

Their humanitarian work through Eyes Open International continues uplifting vulnerable communities globally through education, awareness, human rights advocacy,

food assistance, and compassiondriven initiatives.

Recenthumanitarian efforts include the year-long Tanzania Free Food Drivemissionsupporting vulnerable children with nourishment, education, dignity, andhope.

A Motivational Message to Families Worldwide

As Harold and Dancycelebrate this magnificent milestone, their story continues encouraging families worldwide to cherish relationships, valuemarriage,andcultivatehomes rooted in peace, patience, understanding, forgiveness, and love.

The couple Harold and Dancy D’Souza, concludes with this heartfelt motivational message: “Marriage flourishes when understanding replaces anger, forgiveness replaces pride, love replaces ego, and respect becomes the heartbeat of the relationship. A happyfamilyisbuiltnotinone day, but through daily acts of kindness, patience, care,andgratitude. Never give up on relationships rooted in faith, compassion, and genuine love.Good GodistrulyGracious.” **

Melody Caps...

Prime Minister

Offered Melody

But toffee laughed! He...he....he...!

Social media soared

Shares were bought By people running Helter-skelter!

In the share market Swelled a Road laying company!

Investors built Castles in the air!

Soon you will knowThey've been capped by toffee! They were not offered The toffee... But it’s wrapper! He...he....he...!

Konkani: Andrew L D’Cunha

Translation: Dr. Alwyn DSa

THE ANNUAL FEAST OF WORLDRENOWNED ST. ANTHONYS BASILICA

THE WONDER WORKER DORNAHALLI MYSORE FROM JUNE 4 to JUNE 13, 2026

St. Anthony’sBasilica,Dornahalli, to Celebrate Annual Feast with Grandeur

The Annual Feast of St. Anthony’s Basilica,Dornahalli, oneof themost prominent pilgrimage centresinthe Diocese of Mysore, will be celebrated with great devotion and religious fervour from June 4 to

June 13, 2026. The celebrations will commence with the ceremonial Flag Hoisting on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 5:30 PM,byMost Rev.Dr.Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop, Diocese of Mysore. The Novena preparations leading tothe feast will include daily Masses and preachingservices.EnglishMasswill

be held at 7:00 AM, while Kannada Masses will be celebrated at 11:00 AM and 5:30 PM each day. The Feast Day celebrations on Saturday, June13, 2026, willfeature the Festive High Mass at 10:00 AM in Kannada, to be presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop, Diocese of Mysore. Thousandsofdevoteesfromvarious parts of Karnataka and neighbouring statesareexpectedto participate in the annual celebrations seeking the intercession and blessings of St. Anthony of Padua, known for the numerous favours and miracles

attributed to him. The Basilica administration has made elaborate arrangements to facilitate pilgrims and devotees during the feast celebrations.

The feast invitation is extended by Rev. Fr. David Sagayaraj, Rector of St. Anthony’s Basilica, Dornahalli, along with Rev. Fr. Praveen Pedru, Administrator of the Basilica.

St. Anthony’s Basilica, Dornahalli, has a long and remarkable history rooted in faith and devotion.

Around 220 years ago, a farmer while tilling his field discovered a wooden statue believed to possess miraculous powers. It was later

revealed to be the statue of St. Anthony of Padua. As devotion towards the saint grew and devotees began flocking to the place, a small shrine was constructed in 1920 by the then Parish Priest Rev. Fr. S. D’Silva with thesupport oftheDewanofMysore Palace,ShriThambu Chetty, andhis brother Shri Dharmaraj Chetty. With the increasing number of

pilgrims and reported miracles, the need for a larger church arose. UndertheleadershipofVeryRev.Fr. I. H. Lobo, construction of the present church began in 1964 and the newly built church was blessed and inaugurated on June 13, 1969, by Most Rev. Dr. Matthias Fernandez, then Bishop of Mysore. In recognition of its spiritual significance and devotion of the faithful,the church wasgranted the status of “Minor Basilica” by His Holiness Pope Francis on October 17, 2019. The declaration was officially announced on June 9, 2020, byMostRev.Dr.K.A.William, Bishop of Mysore, during a Thanksgiving Mass.

A Home Built on Compassion: Jeppu Parish

Inaugurates House for a Needy Family

In a remarkable gesture of faith, compassion, and community spirit during the Jubilee Year, the parish community and the St Vincent de Paul (SVP) Unit of Jeppu Parish, under the visionary leadership of Rev.FrMaximD’Souza, successfully

fulfilled the dream of building a homeforadeservingfamilyinneed.

On May 19, 2026, the newly constructed house was solemnly blessed and officially handed over to Mr Jossy Penha, Mrs Bindu Penha,andtheirdaughter Ms

Jenifer Penha amid an atmosphere filled with joy, gratitude, and celebration.

Theconstruction ofthe740-squarefoot house commenced in November2025andwascompleted in May 2026. What began as a humble dream soon transformed

into a beautiful reality through the generous support and goodwill of numerous benefactors and wellwishers.

A major contribution towards this noble project wasmade byMrLeo

and Mrs Trinita D’Souza of Jeppu Parish. The Sisters of Charity, Infant Mary Convent, and Holy Rosary Convent, Jeppu, alsoextended their wholehearted support to the initiative. Significant contributions were further made by entrepreneur Mr Michael D’Souza and CODP. Alongside them, many generous donors and parishioners joined hands to ensure the successful completion ofthe project.

The SVP Unit ofJeppu Parish under theleadershipofMrDenisAposand Mrs Gretta Carvalho, played a vital role not only through financial

assistance but also through tireless dedication and active involvement in mobilizing resources and coordinating the work throughout theprojectperiod. Theirunwavering commitmentreflectedthetruespirit ofservice andChristian charity.

The inauguration and blessing ceremony was led by the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr Maxim D’Souza, whose inspiration and guidance were instrumental in bringing this humanitarian mission to fruition. During the occasion, alldonors and contributors were felicitated with heartfeltgratitude fortheir generosity andkindness.

The programme concluded with refreshments being served to all those present.

The parish community remains deeply thankful to every donor, volunteer, and supporter who contributed towards this noble cause.Theirgenerosity hasnotonly builtahousebutalsorestored hope anddignity toafamilyinneed.

May God abundantly bless all the benefactors and their families for their selfless service and compassionate hearts.

MCC Bank Santhekatte Branch Celebrates ₹10 Crore

Business Milestone; Distributes Books to Schools

MCC Bank – Santhekatte Branch marked a historic milestone by achieving ₹10 Crore in business turnover within just seven months of its commencement. To commemorate this remarkable achievement, the Branch organised a grand celebration along with distribution of books to schools on Saturday, 23rd May 2026, atthe

Santhekatte Branchpremises.

The programme was presided over by Sahakara Ratna Mr Anil Lobo, Chairman of MCC Bank. The Chief Guest for the occasion was Rev. Fr HenryMascarenhas, Parish Priestof St.AnneChurch,Thottam. Guestsof Honour included Mr Raymond Walter Crasta, Social Worker, and MrNithinPoojary,Director,Kidiyoor

Co-operative Society,Kinnimulki. Dr Gerald Pinto, Branch Support Director; MrSunilMenezes,General Manager; Mr Ajith Dsouza, founder branch Manager of Santhekatte Branch; and Mrs Jyothi Baretto, Manager of Santhekatte Branch,

were present onthedais.

As part of the celebration, a ceremonial cake-cutting was held by ten founder customers of the Santhekatte Branch representing the entire customer community, in the presence of the Chairman,

dignitaries, and branch staff, symbolising the remarkable achievement of ₹10 Crore business turnover within a short span of seven months from the branch’s opening.

On the occasion, the founder

customers of Santhekatte Branch were felicitated by the Chairman, Sahakara Ratna Mr Anil Lobo, in recognition of their trust, encouragement, and foundational support extended to the branch since its inception. The Chairman honoured them on behalf of the entire customer community of Santhekatte Branch and expressed the Bank’s heartfelt gratitude for their continued support, confidence, and commitment towards thegrowth ofMCC Bank.

In his presidential address, the Chairman thankedthecustomers of Santhekatte Branchforenablingthe branch to achieve a business turnover of ₹10 Crores within a short span of seven months. Referringtothespeechdeliveredby the Chief Guest, Rev. Fr Henry Mascarenhas, the Chairman remarked that Rev. Fr Henry Mascarenhas had stated that the achievement reflected the trust, confidence, and continued support ofthe people oftheregion towards MCC Bank, and that the address meaningfullyhighlighted thestrong bond existing between the Bank andthe community.

The Chairman further stated that

when the present management assumed leadership of the Bank in 2018, a manifesto had been presented before the members, based on which the Directors were elected with the confidence and support of the shareholders. He stated that the management had been able to uphold the trust and expectations of the members and customers through dedicated efforts and professional management. He stated that though several Boards had administered the Bank since 2002, significant branch expansion was undertaken only after2018, followingagapofnearly 16 years. He explained that establishing and expanding a cooperative bank was a challenging taskdue tothestringent norms and regulations prescribed by the Reserve Bank of India relating to NPA, CRAR, CD Ratio, compliance, and financial discipline. He further statedthataftercomplying with the required guidelines, and with the guidance of the Management, dedicated efforts of the staff, and continued support of the customers, the Bank had successfully increased the number

of branches from 16 to 21 within a spanoftwoyears.

He further stated that the Bank initially had only four branches in Udupi District, which has now increased to eight branches, and that the 9th branch is proposed to be opened at Karapady. He stated that the support and cooperation extended by the people of Udupi District reflected their trust in MCC Bank and their belief that the growth of the Bank would also contribute to the growth of the community. He further informed that the Bank proposed toincrease the number of branches from 21to 25andcelebrate theopening ofthe silver jubilee branches. He also briefly explained the locations proposed for the forthcoming branches andsought thecontinued support of the customers for the futureendeavours ofthe Bank.

The Chairman stated that every phase of growth and development brought challenges, but the Bank hadfacedsuchchallengespositively and professionally, resulting in remarkable progress. Hestatedthat the Bank had achieved a total business turnover of ₹1525 Crores within sevenandahalfyears dueto

the trust and confidence of the customers. He also noted with satisfaction that the newly opened Branhmavar branch had achieved profitability within two years of commencement.

He thanked the landlord of Santhekatte Branch for extending support by providing the branch premises andforcontributing tothe success of the branch. He also conveyed birthday wishes to Dr Gerald Pinto, Director, on his 69th birthday. The Chairman specially appreciated and thanked the founder Branch Manager of Santhekatte Branch, Mr Ajith Dsouza,forhiscontribution towards achievingthe₹10 Crores milestone, and also encouraged the present Branch Manager to continue earning the trust of the customers and strive towards achieving the targets ofthe branch.

In conclusion, he stated that the Bank always recognised and honoured customers, children of customers andheads ofinstitutions for their career achievements to encourage and motivate them. He further stated that the Bank shared astrongbondwith itscustomers,as their trust and support were the

foundation for the growth, success, andprofitability ofthe Bank.

In his address, Rev. Fr Henry Mascarenhas stated that the achievement of Santhekatte Branch attainingabusinessturnover of₹10 Crores within a short span of seven months wasaremarkable milestone and a reflection of the trust and confidence reposed by the customers in MCC Bank. He stated that the achievement was not merely a business figure, but the result of the dedicated efforts, commitment, and firm determination of the Management and staff, along with the continued support ofthe community.

He appreciated the customerfriendly approach and dedicated service rendered by the staff and stated that the employees were working not merely as part of their duty, but with a spirit of service towards society. He further stated that the trust of the customers and the commitment of the staff together contributed to the growth and success of the Bank. He added that faith and trust were the true foundations behind every achievementandsuccess.

He also appreciated the various

social initiatives undertaken by the Bank, including support to schools and honouring achievers in the community. He stated that the achievement was a victory for the entire society and conveyed his blessings and best wishes for the future growth of the Bank. He further expressed hope that the branch would achieve a business turnover of ₹50 Crores in the coming year, adding that the progress of the Bank reflected the progress of the society and the nation.

In his address, Mr Nithin Shetty stated thatthe achievement of ₹10 Crores business turnover was a remarkable milestone for the branch and appreciated the Management and staff for their dedicated efforts towards the progress oftheBank.Heparticularly appreciated theservicerendered by the staff of Santhekatte Branch and stated that the branch was providing prompt and customerfriendly service. He stated that earlier,customers hadtowaitfor10 to 15 days for loan processing in many institutions for various reasons,whereas atMCCBank,loan applications were processed within

two days. He also appreciated the courteous way customers were treatedbythe staff.

He furtherappreciated theBank for organising meaningfulprogrammes such as distribution of books and honouring achievers in the community. He congratulated the Bank on the achievement and conveyed his best wishes for its continued growth andsuccess.

During the occasion, the Bank felicitated the top-scoring children of customers for their academic excellence in securing 85% and above marks in the board examinations. The details were read outbyMr.SandeepQuadros,Senior Manager, KundapurBranch.

The Bank distributed books to needy students ofStJoseph Higher Primary School and St Joseph High School, Kundapura; Stella Maris School, Gangolli; and Nirmala High School, Brahmavara, to support their education. Sports materials were also distributed to Marinol High School, Barkur.

Chairman Sahakara Ratna Mr Anil Loboalsorecognisedandhonoured the branch staff for their relentless efforts towards achieving the milestone.

A separate birthday cake-cutting ceremony was held for Branch Support Director Dr Gerald Pinto, whocelebrated his69th birthday. As a token of appreciation, mementos were presented to the dignitaries by Chairman Sahakara Ratna MrAnilLobo in gratitude for theiresteemed presence. Theprogramme commencedwith a prayer song rendered by bank staff Mr Manoj Lopes and Mr Aldrin Dsouza.

Branch Support Director Dr Gerald Pinto welcomed the gathering. Mr Ovin Rebello, Branch Manager of Brahmavar Branch, compered the programme, while Mrs Jyothi Baretto, Branch Manager of Santhekatte Branch, proposed the vote ofthanks.

Director Mr Elroy K. Crasto and Dr Freeda Dsouzawerealsopresenton theoccasion.

With pleasure, we would like to introduce ourselves as St Joseph’s Club, Mazagaon,Mumbai. Our charitable association wasestablished in the year 1914.It is registered under the Society Act XXI of 1860 and the BombayPublic Trust Act 1950. It has been located at 134 M.P. Road, Mazagaon,Mumbai- 400100,forthe last112 years.

Manyyouths fromtheMangalore/UdupiDiocesearestruggling togetproper jobs intheirhometown andwalking towardsMumbaiinsearchof betterjobs in the city. For those who are new to the city, it is difficult to get accommodation. Our association helps the most ambitious youngsters. The main objective of this club is to provide decent, comfortable accommodation for minimum fees to the young Catholic maleshailing fromtheMangalore/Udupi Diocese.

Inthepast 112years,thousands of youths havebenefited fromthisinstitution and overcome the hardships of their lives. With the support of the institution, manyyouths have fulfilled their dreams and are now successful intheir lives.

We hereby request you to publish it in Veez Konkani weekly. So that youths from your institution can get advantage from our association.

We are looking forward to your support and wish you all the best in your mission and inallyour charitablework.

Ifyou haveanyqueries about this, pleasecontactus.

Yours Truly,

RobertD’souza,Palimar 9867400617

SandeepD’souza,Mukamar 9663538824(Whatsapp)

Rajesh D’souza, Palimar 8850757716 PaulBarboza,Belman 8105091588

Astel Christopher Crasta Makes StAloysius University Proud with GlobalACCAAchievement

In a remarkable academic achievement, Mr Astel Christopher Crasta, a student of the 2023–2026 batchatSt Aloysius (Deemed tobe University), has secured the Worldwide 6th RankandAllIndia1st Rank in the March 2026 examination conducted by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants in the subject of Advanced Financial Management, even before completing his B.Com degree. This extraordinary accomplishment marks a proud moment for the

University and particularly for the School of Commerce, Finance & Accountancy. Securing a global rank inone of themost prestigious and competitive professional accounting examinations in the world reflects Mr Astel’s exceptional dedication, perseverance, and academic excellence.

The ACCA qualification is globally recognized for its rigorous standards in accounting, finance, and strategic financial management. Achieving a Worldwide 6th Rank demonstrates remarkable analytical ability, technical proficiency, and mastery overadvancedfinancialconcepts.

TheManagement, theHon’ble Vice Chancellor, faculty members, staff, andstudents ofthe University have extended their heartfelt congratulations to Mr Astel Christopher Crasta for this phenomenal success. They expressed immense pride in his achievement and conveyed their best wishes for his continued

success in the global professional arena.

This milestone not only brings laurels to the University but also

serves as an inspiration to current and aspiring students to pursue excellence and uphold the rich academiclegacyoftheinstitution.

International Nurses Day 2026

Celebrated at Father Muller

Mangaluru: Father Muller Medical College Hospital celebrated International Nurses Day 2026 with great enthusiasm on May 12, highlighting the vital role of nurses in strengthening healthcare services. The celebration was centred around the theme, “Our Nurses, Our Future – Empowered NursesSaveLives.”

Theprogramme commencedwith a prayer song followed by the escorting of dignitaries to the dais. The event was graced by Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, Rev. Sr Aileen Mathias, Rev. Fr George Jeevan Sequeira, Rev. Dr Michael Santhumayor, Dr. Udaykumar, Rev. Sr Dr Dhanya Devasia and Rev. Sr NancyPriya Mathias. Thewelcome address was delivered by Rev. Sr Dr Dhanya Devasia, followed by the garlanding of the

portraits of Rev.Fr Augustus Muller and Florence Nightingale, along with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp.

A special highlight of the celebration was the felicitation of veteran nurse Mrs. Victoria Dalmeida in recognition of her dedicated and compassionate service in the nursing profession. She also addressed the gathering and shared her experiences and inspiring journey innursing. Duringtheprogramme, theFMCON magazineMuller Springwas formally released by the Chief Guest.

In her address, Rev. Sr Aileen Mathias appreciated the tireless efforts and commitment of nurses towards patientcareandhealthcare services. Amementowas presented toherasatoken ofgratitude.

Delivering the presidential address, Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo encouraged nurses to continue serving society with compassion, dedication, andcommitment.

The formal programme concluded with the vote of thanks and the Institutional Anthem, followed by a cultural programme featuring a videorole-play presentation.

The event concluded with a group photograph session and fellowship lunch, making the celebration memorable forallparticipants.

The celebration also included the distribution of awards to the Best Nurse, CNE topper, and winners of various competitions organised as part of the event. Nurses who completed 20 years of service at Father Muller Institutions were specially honoured for their valuable contributions to healthcare.