Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (AM)

Mangaluru, Apr 1: Former residence of distinguished ICS officer and Lok Sabha MP late J M Lobo Prabhu and his wife Dr Louella Lobo Prabhu, situated on Light House Hill (behind City Centre Mall), was completely gutted in a fire mishap on March 30.

The mishap was observed by locals at 11 pm after which the fire service pressed into action. The bungalow which is said to be 80 years old, suffered extensive damages.

Fortunately, no human casualties were reported. The reason for the mishap is not known.

Known to be a heritage home in the heart of the city, the house had many memorabilia, artifacts, and personal items in it which belonged to the erstwhile members living in the house. Known to be an important site once upon a time, it is now hidden by surrounding buildings.

Late Lobo Prabhu was a distinguished ICS officer. Later in 1967, he became a Lok Sabha MP from Swatantra Party representing Udupi constituency. According to sources, Lobo Prabhu named the mansion ‘Chateau De Lou’ in honour of his wife which meant ‘Lou’s Cottage’ in French. Lobo Prabhu died in 1996 and Dr Louella Lobo Prabhu passed away in 2005. The couple’s daughter Giselle D Mehta chose not to reside in her ancestral home.