Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Oct 9: The Mangalurean Community is known for its industriousness, honesty, and dynamism. Mangalureans have made significant contributions to Mumbai and Maharashtra. Politics has no boundaries, making politicians powerful tools in society. Politics, often considered not merely a calculation but a science, is complex, involving secrecy, determination, and strategy. The desire to become politicians is no longer looked down upon; instead, it is seen as a powerful and noble pursuit. Christians, too, must show interest in politics, according to AICC general secretary and MLC Ivan D'Souza, who emphasized this at the event.
Ivan D'Souza was addressing a felicitation programme organised by Mangalorean Community Business Forum Mumbai on Tuesday night at Hotel Sai Palace in Chakala, Andheri East, a suburb of Mumbai.
Christian Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCCI) Chairman Albert W D'Souza who presided over the programme, All India Transport Congress Karnataka State President, Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee Minority Wing coordinator, (Canara Pinto Travels & Nityadhar Electrical (Mumbai) owner Sunil Pais Puttur who was the principal moderator, Maharashtra government’s former minister Suresh H Shetty, CCCI former chairman Henry Lobo, Fr Norbert D'Souza, pastor Devdan Tribhuvan, Dimension (Global Christians Chamber of Commerce) chairman Sylvester Rodrigues, Lawrence & Mayo’s chairman Vivek Mendonsa, senior vice president of Mumbai Congress (I) & former women president Janet L D'Souza were on the stage and congratulated Ivan D'Souza.
Suresh Shetty, in his address, noted that politicians, despite being public servants, often sacrifice their personal lives. Though 90% of them appear healthy, many face internal struggles. He praised Ivan D'Souza as a charismatic and committed leader, whose public appeal has helped him grow to prominence.
Shetty also pointed out that various forces, such as social, religious, economic, intellectual, and media powers, shape society today. However, political dominance is still one of the most influential forces. He commended Ivan D'Souza for embodying this strength and lauded his integrity. Ivan is not just a politician but also a reformer and dedicated servant of society. The Mangalurean Christian community is proud that he has been elected twice to the Legislative Council. Shetty wished Ivan continued success, hoping to see him serve as a minister at both the state and national levels in the future.
Catholic Sabha Mumbai former vice president Lawrence D'Souza Mulund, Viphul Rodrigues, John Rebello Chemburu, Ivan Anand D'Souza Nakre, CA Arun Vas, Andheri District Mumbai Congress (I) president Clive Dias, Francis Castellino Mahakali, Clement A Lobo, Peter D'Souza Sion, James D’Sa Perampalli, Amit Jagannath Shetty, Sohel Khan Bhiwandi and other dignitaries were present and wished Ivan D'Souza.
Janet L D'Souza welcomed and introduced Ivan. Fr Norbert D'Souza delivered the benediction. Sarita, Cynthia, Jason J Rebello, Gerald Almeida, Ralph D'Souza, Simon Mendonsa and others were present. Brian D'Souza compered the programme. Vivek Mendonsa proposed vote of thanks.