Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Feb 15: “When I inaugurated Daijiworld.com twenty-five years ago, it was a rare introduction of an exclusive news web portal in the region. Since then, it has grown into a revolution in the field of journalism and has become a popular media house not only in the coastal region but also internationally. Daijiworld is exceptional not just in its news coverage—from local events to world affairs—but in its depth of commitment to the people. Through an extensive network of journalists, the platform ensures that facts of importance, relevance, and human resilience are told with integrity,” said Dr Ronald Colaco, NRI entrepreneur and philanthropist.
He was speaking at the 25th-anniversary celebrations held on February 14 at Milagres Jubilee Hall, Mangaluru.
Adding further, he said, “Beyond reporting news, Daijiworld has consistently demonstrated humanitarian commitment. For many years, through its charity appeals, it has acted as a bridge between those in need and generous supporters. Its ‘direct from donor to beneficiary’ philosophy has helped raise significant financial assistance for medical, educational, and social causes. In the last 25 years alone, it has generated donations worth Rs 35 crore and directly helped the needy."
"During the Covid pandemic, through its programme Navu Nimmodinge, it reached the community with food, medical, and emotional assistance, which was most needed at that time. Recently, Daijiworld launched the programme Cancer Gellolla in association with MIO Mangalore, creating cancer awareness. In just three months, many were diagnosed and cured, proving that early awareness is immensely helpful in preventing cancer and related diseases. This is yet another example of how journalism can go beyond information and become a hope for public health," he recalled.
"Keeping this in mind, I firmly believe all media must priority to guiding the government and society towards building a harmonious and inclusive environment, rather than promoting divisive narratives. Only through communal harmony and unity can we achieve rapid economic growth," Dr Colaco added.
He also lauded Ronald Pinto, director of Hyssna International LLC, for his continuous support and recalled the early days of the portal, appreciating founder Walter Nandalike’s hard work in shaping Daijiworld into a powerful media brand.
Congratulating the team, Dr Prakash Shetty said, “Walter Nandalike had a vision to bring people together. Today, Daijiworld is a household name because of its media ethics and its efforts to unite all sections of society while promoting the cultural and tourism potential of the coastal region.”
Dr Yenepoya Abdulla Kunhi, Chancellor of Yenepoya (Deemed-to-be University), praised the portal's excellence. “Walter Nandalike’s resolve transformed a basic webpage into one of the most popular news portals worldwide. Daijiworld has never compromised its journalistic ethics for ratings,” he said.
Welcoming the dignitaries, Walter Nandalike expressed his gratitude. “Daijiworld began with the golden hands of Dr Ronald Colaco, and it is in his presence that we celebrate our Silver Jubilee. We assure you that we will continue our mission without compromising media ethics.”
Special guests included Ronald Pinto, managing director of Hyssna International, UAE, and Dr Rohan Monteiro. Directors of Daijiworld—Melwyn Rodrigues, Alexis Castelino, Nelson Rodricks, Leena Victor D’Souza, Michael Castelino, Dayan D’Souza, Ronald Nazareth, and Stevan Mascarenhas—were present.
Dr Ronald Colaco and Ronald Pinto honoured staff members Praveen Tauro, Dayanand Kukkaje, Sonia Sudhakar, Nandini Mallya, Alwyn Mascarenhas, and Stany Bela for their dedicated service. The directors and staff also presented a Silver Jubilee memento to Walter Nandalike.
Melwyn Rodrigues delivered the vote of thanks, while Rena Castelino compered the programme. The celebration concluded with the grand finale of Hyssna Miss Daijiworld, followed by classical performances by students of Shri Devi Nrutyaradhana Kala Kendra, Puttur.