Media Release

Hyderabad, Sep 24: From the 1970s, the Mangalureans in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad met informally for potluck meals, picnics and fun get-togethers. In 1998, under the guidance of late Fr Henry D’Souza, some enterprising Mangalureans mooted the plan to form an association of all Kanara Catholics in the twin cities, as the language and culture was common.

The association had different names over a period but was finally registered as Kanara Catholic Welfare Association (KCWA). The aim was to keep our culture and language alive among members and their families. The welfare activities were to reach out to the needy among the members and help in their medical, financial and educational needs.

KCWA conducts four major events every year:

• Monthi Fest celebration in September. The annual general meeting (AGM) of KCWA is also conducted the same day.
• Mass for the departed souls of the members of the association and departed family members.
• A picnic and fun get together in January or February.
• Mass for the welfare of children of members of the association for the new academic year is celebrated in June or July.

Monthi Fest was celebrated this year on September 15, at St Mary’s Chapel, in the Trimulgherry military area. The celebration started with veneration of the statue of Infant Mary, blessing of the new paddy with singing of traditional songs in Konkani. Fr Harold Mathais of Pilar seminary in Goa, a Konkani speaking Mangalurean priest was present for the celebration. The statue was taken in procession to the chapel, acompanied by singing devotional hymns in adoration of Infant Mary and placed in front of the altar.

The Holy Mass was celebrated in Konkani, and the choir sang melodious Konkani hymns. Fr Harold gave an inspirational homily. Little children carried the offertory items in procession to the altar. The chapel was full as the gathering for the mass was beyond the estimated strength and many members attended the mass standing on the verandah. After Mass, refreshments were served to all present.

Thereafter, members assembled for the AGM. President Alwyn Menezes welcomed the gathering and informed everyone that the silver jubilee of KCWA was celebrated in a grand manner on December 10, 2023. The new logo of KCWA, designed by Anna D’Souza, (daughter of Mercy & Allwyn D’Souza) was released. General secretary Stany Mendonca then presented the annual report of the association. Treasurer Norman Bennis presented the financial report of KCWA. Open house was then declared and conducted by vice president Ashley Coelho. He also informed everyone about the draft plans for the year to come. This was followed by elections to office bearer and managing committee positions. Ashley Coelho was elected as the new President. Ten managing committe members were also elected, more than half being young members. Ashley Coelho also proposed the vote of thanks.

While the AGM was on, games and entertainment were conducted for the children by Renita Abraham and Anna D’Souza. Merit awards with medals and certificates were presented to children of members of the association who had secured more than 75% in the academic exams of the past academic year. New members and theor families who joined KCWA after the silver jubile celebration were introduced to the gathering. Lunch was then served for all present. After lunch, there was a sing-song session. The gathering sang traditional konkani songs. Thereafter tombola was conducted by Loydon Mendonca and team, that kept everyone exited and on their toes. The celebration concluded with fun filled spirit.