Pics: Stanly Bantwal
Mangaluru, Nov 18: The Father Muller Homoeopathic Pharmaceutical Division (FMHPD), a unit of the esteemed Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI), commemorated 20 years since its relocation to Paneer, Deralakatte, with a grand vicennial celebration on November 16. The event was held at the Father Muller Homoeopathic Medical College Auditorium, Deralakatte, at 10 am.
A journey of growth and excellence
Founded in 1880 by Fr Augustus Muller SJ, as the “Homoeopathic Poor Dispensary” in Kankanady, FMHPD has grown to be a global leader in homoeopathic medicine production. Its relocation to Deralakatte in 2004 marked a new era of enhanced productivity, advanced infrastructure, and expanded reach. Today, FMHPD stands as a testament to the legacy of excellence in medicine production, supporting rural health initiatives, and maintaining stringent GMP standards.
The event was graced by several distinguished personalities:
- Chief guest: Prof Dr Pravas Kumar Pal, Medical Superintendent, JIMS Homoeopathic Medical College & Hospital, Hyderabad.
- Guest of honour: Prof Dr Herald Roshan Pinto, Principal, Alva’s Homoeopathic Medical College.
- President: Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore Diocese and President of FMCI.
Other dignitaries included Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho (director, FMCI), Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo (designate director, FMCI & administrator, FMHMC&H/FMCOPS), Fr Nelson Dheeraj Pais (administrator, FMHPD), Fr Ashwin Lawrence Crasta (assistant administrator, FMHPD), and Ratan Kumar (production manager, FMHPD).
In his presidential address, Dr Peter Paul Saldanha spoke about the importance of promoting immunity in children through homoeopathy and the institution’s legacy of creating affordable, effective remedies. Drawing from biblical references, he emphasized holistic healing and praised the dedication of FMHPD staff and management, encouraging all gathered to popularize the use of homoeopathic medicaments and testify to the holistic healing it brings.
The event commenced with a token of appreciation handed over to the dignitaries present by Fr Nelson, administrator, FMHPD, after which the director, FMCI, honoured the administrator, FMHPD, for meticulously planning and organizing the event.
Renita Crasta extended gratitude to all contributors, including past and present management, doctors, dealers, vendors, and event organizers. She praised the cultural team, sound engineers, caterers, photographers, media teams, with special acknowledgment to all the HPD staff, thanking Dr Deepa and Dr Jolly for coordinating the cultural program, and the student council president, Akhil, and his team for their efforts in ensuring the event’s success.
The formal event was compered by Dr Anargha and Wilma Lobo.
The event concluded with captivating cultural performances, including a Kathak dance, Western singing by Mark, a mime performance portraying the life and legacy of Father Muller, dance by HPD staff, and Eastern fusion group singing, compered by Neha and Namith.
As FMHPD celebrates this significant milestone, it looks forward to continuing its mission of Heal and Comfort. With a renewed focus on innovation and outreach, it aims to expand its impact and maintain its legacy as a leader in homoeopathic medicine production.