Media Release
Dubai, Sep 8: Mangalore Konkans Dubai, under the leadership of its president, Stephen Menezes, organized a heartfelt condolence meeting in memory of the late Eric Alexander Ozario (May 18, 1949 –August 29, 2025) at Winny’s Restaurant, Karama, on Sunday, September 7. The gathering witnessed an overwhelming response, with more than 100 people in attendance, paying rich tribute to the legendary cultural icon.
Fondly known as Eric Baab, Ozario was a towering figure in the Konkani community. A music composer, cultural activist, trade unionist, and founder of Mandd Sobhann and Kalaangann. He was instrumental in getting Konkani approved as an optional subject in schools in Karnataka and served as Secretary General of the Jagotik Konknni Songhotton (JKS) for many years. His contributions to Konkani art, culture, and language have left an everlasting impact.
Melwyn Kalakul gracefully compered the condolence meeting. The event began with a welcome address by Stephen Menezes, followed by a solemn hymn and a silent reflection, during which attendees and members offered flower petals at the portrait of Eric Baab, creating a moving moment of collective remembrance.
The evening was filled with moving speeches and soul-stirring songs, reflecting different facets of Eric Baab’s remarkable life:
• Roshan D’Silva opened the tributes with an introductory speech. He read out a heart-touching message sent by James Mendonca, former president of Mangalore Konkans and a member of the advisory committee, who expressed his respect and admiration for Eric Baab.
• Mohammed Naveed Mahagundi, who spoke on Eric Baab’s role in uniting artistes from various religions and languages, and later rendered the song Pois Ravon Polenaka.
• Darel Vamanjoor shared about Eric Baab’s role in uplifting young talents and keeping his legacy alive, while his grandson Eshan sang Raat Raat Radlam.
• Arther Pereira highlighted his impact on language, culture, and tradition, followed by a song sung by Preema and supported by Darrel Mascarenhas and Eldrich on instruments, which was Havn Vetam.
• Monica Valder emotionally recalled how she became a singer because of Eric Baab, while Melwyn D’Souza (MAD) presented Ganv Go Chedva song.
• Dayan D’Souza reflected on Eric’s organizational skills and leadership, while Eric’s grandchildren, Aman & Gia, sang Fatodechya Kombyan.
Dr Rashmi Fernandes concluded the speeches with heartfelt words on Eric Baab’s role in family life and society. Got emotional while explaining how proud she is to be called as Eric Babb’s daughter. She reaffirmed that his name and the Konkani literature must live long.
Adding to the evening’s significance, a heartfelt message from Ronald Colaco, who could not attend the meeting due to unavoidable circumstances, was read out by Rajesh Sequeira, vice president of Mangalore Konkans Dubai. In his message, Colaco expressed his deep admiration and love for Eric Baab, underlining the profound void his passing has left in the Konkani world.
The programme ended with a vote of thanks and a fellowship dinner, where members continued sharing personal memories and experiences of Eric Baab.
It was indeed Mangalore Konkans Dubai’s great pleasure to honor his timeless contribution. The evening was a true testimony to the deep respect and admiration the Konkani community holds for Eric Ozario. His vision, music, and leadership will continue to inspire generations, keeping his legacy alive forever.