Dr Austin Prabhu @ 75 - Heroic Konkani Premi

August 8, 2025

Austin D'souza Prabhu  was born on August 8, 1950 in Nanthur (known since captivity) in Mangalore, folks of Mumbai are familiar. Remembered for his all around greatness and seen as 'Konkani Premi'. He dared to be different, he dared to chart his own path following the circle was not for him, as his days miraculously extended how else can one explain his innumerable feats accomplished most people fail to achieve in multiple lifetimes together and now a diamond is showered in platinum . Altruist Dr. Austin D’Souza Prabhu  PhD, has surely made a mark on many fronts. Though it is not possible to completely convey all about this ineffable personality, let's look into the facts and life of our 75 year young HERO and be jubilant.  
 




























 
Family Roots & Early life: Austin's ascendants are of typical Konkani roots, from Valencia Mangalore. The first recorded ancestor,  Pascal D'Souza, (born about 1850), One of his sons appears in the Rosario marriage register,  Gaspar born about 1880. The Rosario cathedral marriage register says Gaspar married Christine d/o Sebastian D'Souza & Isabella Lobo....on  Jan 13, 1913. Second of their children is son Gaulbert Paschal Leo (b 28 June 1921 / d 3 Aug 1995), married  Rose D'Souza. Gaulbert and Rose D'Souza, were married in 1945, they are the parents of Dr. Austin. They had 9 children - all now in Chicago (more precisely at Forest Park, Illinois).  Austin, Norbert,  Dorothy, Godwin, Melville, Stany, Felix, and  Queenie. Austin's  siblings too are charter members of the Broadview Kala Sampath Lions Club. He spread Lionism in his entire family and they have a total of  at least 18 lions in his family. 
 
Young Austin went to primary school at St. Joseph’s Calvary Elementary School, Nanthur and  Padua High School, Nanthur, due to interest he did a Mechanical course  from ITI Mangalore; a B.A. from Mysore Open University,  Computer science from Triton College, River Grove, Illinois, U.S.A.; M.B.A (Business Administration) from Pacific Western University, Los Angeles, U.S.A.; and Ph. D. in Management from Pacific Western University, Los Angeles, U.S.A.
 
 Austin married Terry Pinto, a Mangalorean  settled in Bombay/Mumbai,  on October 25, 1980. Austin often speaks about his better half - and yes, behind every successful man is a great woman. He lights up and says   “My dear wife Terry is a terrific woman. She came to the United States when she was just 17. She had to adapt to a lot of change, Mumbai to Chicago then for a young girl was a different universe". She came to the United States when she was just 16. She had to adapt to a lot of change, Mumbai to Chicago then for a young girl was a different universe. As a strong headed young woman, she took up many challenges including working 36 hour stretches 3 times a week to prove herself the best in her profession. Side by side with work and attending University she earned a BS degree in Applied Behavioural Sciences from National Louis University in Lombard and then achieved her MS in Psychology. Her work for Cook County Hospital for 30 years is legendary.  She retired a few years ago taking advantage of the early retirement incentive from the Cook County’s retirement plan. Terry still makes 80% of her salary without  working and by productively staying home now. She will perhaps still get her doctorate in psychology or be an entrepreneur soon after she concludes her duties  as First Lady of district 1-A of the Lions of Illinois, Lions Clubs International.”
 
An inspiration to younger generations: Dr Austin Prabhu, from youthful times in the 1970s in Mangalore, has been the focus of admiration unlimited. His hands-on involvement through a whole range of activities and contributions defies words. When dashing Austin D’Souza came  forward to speak, the young simply erupted in joy, many still remember his gestures, jokes, he was an instant role model and hero and even now, even though he often said he was a zero. He has a special corner for his native culture and language - "Konkani".  

Lion Austin is a writer, Editor, Actor, public speaker, Publisher and a true leader with multi skills, knowledge and experience that is together rare.  Words from his heart never to be forgotten, that one must stand on 'your own feet. You never know when they are going to leave you without giving you any notice. Be humane, spare some time, wealth and energy to uplift the community, those who are in need.  Make one soul happier in this world at least. One-step at a time can take you to the moon. Give yourself respect and challenges and always be positive. Name and fame  follow automatically those who are sincere and hard working. Never say that you have no time. 
 
Terry and Austin have four children in their own image, all grown ups now, with families of their own in key business positions in the US - Anita, Anil, Atina, Angel. Dr. Austin D'Souza Prabhu,has been an extraordinary and exemplary Indian and citizen of the USA. He joined the Padil-Mangalore Lions Club in 1979 and has been a tall member of repute ever since, with scores of admirable honours and achievements. His contribution to his original homeland, to his community, to Kanara and Mangalore and even his mother tongue 'mai bhas' Konkani, is equally  admired in the USA  and his home city in India, Mangaluru.  

Street named after him in the US: A street in Illinois, is named after  Austin D'Souza -Prabhu, the mayor of Forest Park, Illinois, US, passed a resolution favouring this Indian born philanthropist. Mayor of Forest Park honoured Dr Austin Prabhu with his own street sign in Forest Park. Dr Austin is a resident of Forest Park for the past 40 years.  Well, there is much to be said about this extraordinary 'Kodialgar' hero in America...it's impossible to look at aspects of his many spheres of action. 
 
Dr Austin was two terms president of India Catholic Association of America, one-time secretary of  Federation of Indian Associations in Mid-America, Treasurer of The Federation of Indo-American Christian  Associations of North America, Director of New Republic of India, International, Advisor of International Biographical Center, Cambridge, England and so on. His biography was published in several  national/international magazines and websites including Who’s Who in the World by Marquis, USA.  Lion Austin’s family received the 'Asian  American Humanitarian Family of the Year 2005 Award' from Asia TV Chronicle. His American dream is an unending achievement.  All Good Wishes and GOD's Blessings, we cherish the Goodness for times and generations to come. 
 
A Viral verse his daughter composed for most dear DAD - The HERO:
H is for humbleness. Having the ability to help others without needing credit and helping someone because you can and not because of pride.
E is for energy. Going to meetings and fundraisers that run late into the night, still getting up at 4:30 for work and doing it all with a smile.
R is for rare. Possessing qualities rare that distinguish you from the rest and make you unique.
O is for open. Sending off vibes makes you more appealing, significantly more approachable and open.”

"Here's to a unique, illustrious, multifaceted gentleman still growing, still aspiring, still seeking to reach out. 75 is just a number of years given, today Is just another day on his calendar of possibilities". He moves on....a valuable Diamond set in Platinum now.

 

 

 

By Ivan Saldanha-Shet
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Comment on this article

  • Prem Moras, Mangaluru

    Sun, Aug 10 2025

    Nice article on the life story of Dr. Austin Prabhu. A hard working person and great achievement. Congratulations and wish you all the success in future.

  • Eric JB Dsouza, Bejai, Mangalore

    Sat, Aug 09 2025

    Lovely Article....very well written and very interesting reading.. Best Wishes.

  • Divyaprabha Dsouza, Bejai Mangalore

    Sat, Aug 09 2025

    A well portrayed beautiful article by Mr.Ivan Saldanha Shet. We can see his sincere efforts in depicting the life story of a great multi talented personality Mr.Austin Dsouza Prabhu.He is truly inspiring and motivating for everyone . We wish all the best Mr.Austin Dsouza and your family. We expect many more such articles from the very talented Author Ivan Saldanha Shet. His hardwork is always appreciated.

  • Aloysius DSouza, Bajjodi Mangalore

    Sat, Aug 09 2025

    🌸 Happy Platinum Birthday, dear Dr. Austin Prabhu 🌸 When you, celebrate your birthday, its not just a birthday, but a lifetime of service, dedication, and inspiration. Many happy returns of the day! May the good Lord bless you abundantly, fill your heart with joy, keep you in good health, and grant you peace of mind to continue your noble mission for our beloved Konkani community and for society. From your youthful days in Bendur and Mangalore, you shone with energy, passion, and commitment. Even after moving to the USA, that same zeal and tireless enthusiasm have never faded — instead, they have touched countless lives and lit up many hearts. Your life is a beautiful example of selfless service, and your journey inspires us all. You are, and will always remain, a true role model. With heartfelt gratitude, prayers, and best wishes — thank you for being the light you are. Once again, Happy Platinum Birthday, dear Dr. Austin! – Aloysius Dsouza Bendur, now Bajjodi

  • Concepta Fernandes, Mangalore/Bangalore

    Sat, Aug 09 2025

    Well articulated and very informative verbal tribute to our dear Austin Prabhu on reaching the Platinum Jubilee Milestone by Ivan Saldanha Shet. I must say he has a way with words- eloquent and picturesque. Thank you and congratulations to you dear Ivan Shet for this beautiful verbal portrayal of our dear Konkani Premi. Keep writing more. Dear Austin, i take this opportunity to Wish you a very happy Platinum Jubilee. May you be blessed to celebrate many more Milestones. ⚘️

  • Aloysius DSouza, Bajjodi Mangalore

    Sat, Aug 09 2025

    Happy birthday dear Austin Prabhu. Many happy returns of the day. May good Lord bless you with good health happiness and peace of mind always 🌺 Austin is real Hero of our Konkoni community. His Service work has been brought out by Ivan Saldhanha is wonderful. Many good things we came to know because of this article. Congratulations to Ivan Sir.

  • Concepta Fernandes, Mangalore/Bangalore

    Sat, Aug 09 2025

    Well articulated and very informative verbal tribute to our dear Austin Prabhu on reaching the Platinum Jubilee Milestone by Ivan Saldanha Shet. I must say he has a way with words- eloquent and picturesque. Thank you and congratulations to you dear Ivan Shet for this beautiful verbal portrayal of our dear Konkani Premi. Keep writing more. Dear Austin, i take this opportunity to Wish you a very happy Platinum Jubilee. May you be blessed to celebrate many more Milestones. ⚘️

  • Roy Castelino, Makale, Mangalore

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    Many many happy returns of the day to the evergreen hero Austin Bab. He was the most adorable person of our generation. His presence made a difference in all the events he was involved, May the Almighty Lord grant him good health and bless him to live to celebrate his life’s centenary. All the best Lion Austin D’Souza Prabhu💐💐💐

  • Jossy Dsouza, Urwa, Mangalore

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    Happy birthday to Dr Austin. Achievement is so great that there is a street in USA named after a Mangalorean - Dr Austin. Article brought back to memory days during 1970s when I used to meet him at Nanthoor, often see him on his bike, his active and jolly participation in various functions. Photos are beautiful. Good coverage by the author, going through the records and starting from the roots.

  • Sr Miriam, Mangalore

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    A well written and very informative article of Mr Ivan Saldanha on Dr Austin Prabhu. A very 75th birthday dear Dr Austin Prabhu. May God bless you bountifully .

  • Richard, Mangaluru

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    very inspiring article Mr. Ivan shet. Dr. Austin Prabhu is great konkani lover even though he is in USA. Article given best information about Mr. Prabhus work to keep mother tongue konkani alive.

  • Caroline Gengan, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    Thank you Mr Ivan Saldanha for this beautiful and wonderful tribute to Dr Austin Prabhu our heroic Konkani premi , who celebrates his 75 th birthday today. You have taken us through his incredible life’s journey and spoken with much love , respect and pride of his various achievements and his immense contributions to our mangalorean as well as the international community and it is truly commendable and inspiring! The photographs speak volumes of the outstanding distinguished public figure and also of the simple homely person that he is . Although I haven’t met Dr Austin Prabhu in person , I have through my various correspondence with him , found him to be a most humble , down to earth and a very kind and caring soul . His VEEZ magazine keeps me in touch with my mangalorean roots and I am very grateful to him for this. I wish him a wonderful 75 th birthday and may God bless him with many more happy years ahead ! May he grow from strength to strength! Thank you Mr Ivan Saldanha for introducing us to the great people of our Kanara community both from the past and the present. They are an inspiration to us all !

  • Molly Pinto, Mangalore, Karnataka, India

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    Happy 75th Sir! Your journey is such an inspiration to young peopleand not so young🤪. We pray you enjoy many, many more years of health to continue inspiring your fans far and wide. David, Molly Pinto and Family

  • Praveen Pinto, Bejai, Mangaluru

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    Dr Austin Prabhu and his remaDr Austin Prabhu and his remarkable journey is an inspiration to every Mangalorean. Great son of the soil who made Konkani popular by connecting Konkani speaking community all around the world by his E-magazine Veez. Even at his age he is a livewire. Wishing Dr Austin best of health and happiness. Great Article by Sri IJ Saldanha and thankful for introducing a great man to the community.

  • Guru prasad, Attavara

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    Happy Birthday sir...real great heroic All the best.may God bless you with good health and peace

  • Raymond Saldanha, Mangalore,/ Bengaluru

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    Thanks for carrying this informative article in your magazine. Thoroughly enjoyed the various aspects presented. All the best. Warn regards, Raymond.

  • Bennett, Mangalore

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    Excellent intersting article . Thanks

  • Dr Alfred Farias, Kadri, Kodial

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    I have known Austin Prabhu’s family since I was a child and later when he was professionally active. I am very proud of the great heights he has reached and the fame he has gained in the US. I wish him on his 75th birthday and may God bless him with many many more years to continue the good work he is doing in the community. Ivan as always has been very informative and it is a pleasure to read his articles.

  • Dr Alfred Farias, Kadri, Kodial

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    I have known Austin Prabhu’s family since I was a child and later when he was professionally active. I am very proud of the great heights he has reached and the fame he has gained in the US. I wish him on his 75th birthday and may God bless him with many many more years to continue the good work he is doing in the community. Much regards

  • Joshua Peris Bhatt, Mangalore

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    Nice article . It was wonderful and very inspiring , specially to know about a Mangalorean who has firmly embraced Konkani though living in US . Thank you Mr. Ivan. Saldanha for this article which will surely inspire other Mangalorean’s to uphold our mother tongue by learning about Mr Austin’s great work for Konkani .

  • Naveen Frank, UAE

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    This article beautifully highlights the inspiring life and remarkable achievements of Dr. Austin D'Souza Prabhu. His dedication, versatility, and unwavering humanitarian spirit serve as a beacon of hope and motivation for all generations. The tribute to his cultural roots, community service, and personal virtues wonderfully celebrates a true hero whose legacy will undoubtedly inspire many more to follow his exemplary path. When I was little, I recall waiting in anticipation , Sunday evenings, to listen Dr Austin’s Comic Konkani Dramas broadcast by All India Radio- Mangalore. Thank you Sri Ivan Saldanha Shet for highlighting the profile of yet another KODIALKAR. Best wishes to Dr Austin Dsouza Prabhu on his 75th birthday and wish him many more to follow. Naveen Frank UAE

  • Preethika Dsa, Valencia

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    A very happy 75th bday to Dr. Austin Prabhu. God bless u in all your endeavours. Dr. AUSTIN PRABHU is an inspiration to all. Well written article by Mr. IVAN SALDANHA SHET.

  • Olga B Noronha, Bejai, Mangalore.

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    As usual, Ivan has presented a well-expressed interesting article about an illustrious Mangalorean, whom we are all so proud of! Hearty Congratulations to Dr Austin Prabhu, on his milestone 75th Birthday. Wishing you Sir, good health, peace and happiness for all the years ahead of you! Hearty Congratulations too, to Ivan Saldanha Shet for enlightening us all about the remarkable life and achievements of a son of our very own Mangalorean soil.

  • Ajay, Mangalore

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    Happy birthday. Long live Dr Austin Prabhu! Long live Konkani!

  • Rita, Germany

    Fri, Aug 08 2025

    Congratulations to the Great Heroic Dr.Austin Prabhu.May God give him good health and all the best We did hear from him a lot many times.


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