Media Release
Bengaluru, Jun 18: The Konkan Catholic Association (KCA), Mathikere, Bengaluru, commemorated its diamond jubilee on June 7 with a magnificent celebration at Chowdiah Memorial Hall, marking six decades of unwavering commitment to service, community development, and social upliftment.
The landmark event brought together clergy, community leaders, former beneficiaries, and members of the association in a joyful gathering that reflected on KCA’s rich heritage and its enduring contribution to the Catholic community in Bengaluru.
Past presidents of the association
The celebrations were presided over by Archbishop Emeritus Dr Bernard Moras of Bengaluru. Justice John Michael Cunha, former Judge of the High Court of Karnataka, graced the occasion as chief guest, while Walter Nandalike, founder of Daijiworld Media Pvt. Ltd, attended as guest of honour. Also present were FKCA chairman Antony Gonsalves and several former presidents of KCA Mathikere.
The formal programme commenced with a graceful prayer dance that set a reverent tone for the evening. This was followed by the ceremonial welcome of the dignitaries, including the chief guest, guest of honour, and the president, secretary, and treasurer of the association.
In his presidential address, Archbishop Emeritus Dr Bernard Moras paid glowing tribute to the visionary founders who established the association in 1966. Recalling their foresight, dedication, and generosity, he highlighted Konkan Bhavan as one of the association’s most significant and enduring achievements. For decades, the institution has provided accommodation, guidance, and support to underprivileged Catholic youth arriving in Bengaluru in pursuit of higher education and employment opportunities.
Archbishop Moras noted that more than 1,500 students and job seekers have benefited from the hostel facilities at Konkan Bhavan over the years. He further observed that the Bhavan continues to serve as an important centre for cultural, social, and religious activities within the community.
Justice John Michael Cunha lauded the tremendous contribution made by the community over the decades and acknowledged the Association’s consistent efforts toward the welfare, advancement, and empowerment of its members.
Walter Nandalike commended both past and present members of KCA for their steadfast commitment to preserving the community’s cherished values while simultaneously reaching out in service to society.
One of the most memorable moments of the evening was the felicitation of Nigel Fernandes, chief executive officer of Asian Trading Corporation, director and CEO of Arclight Global Pvt Ltd, and co-founder of the Catholic Connect App, following his recent investiture as a Knight of the Order of St Sylvester.
Speaking on the significance of this prestigious honour, Archbishop Moras explained that the Papal Knighthood is among the highest distinctions bestowed by the Catholic Church upon lay faithful in recognition of exceptional and selfless service rendered to both the Church and society.
The programme also featured a moving testimony by Roshan Earnest Pinto, a former resident of Konkan Bhavan, who spoke with gratitude on behalf of the many young men whose lives had been transformed through the opportunities, support, and encouragement provided by the hostel.
Adding colour and vibrancy to the celebrations were a series of cultural performances and a captivating live musical concert by Ashwin D’Costa, together with Velita Lobo, Dealle D’Souza, and Royston Pinto, accompanied by the Blue Angel Choir Group. Their performances were warmly received and greatly appreciated by the audience.
Founded in 1966 by the visionary entrepreneur and community leader late A V Rego, along with socially committed leaders late H A Patrao and late A C L Peris, the Konkan Catholic Association has steadfastly pursued its mission of fostering unity among Konkani-speaking Catholics, preserving their language and cultural heritage, and extending educational and medical assistance to those in need.
A lasting embodiment of this noble mission is Konkan Bhavan, built on land generously donated by late A V Rego for the benefit of young people who come to Bengaluru seeking education and employment. The institution continues to stand as a living testament to the foresight, sacrifice, and generosity of the association’s founding fathers.
As KCA celebrates sixty years of remarkable service, it does so with profound gratitude for its illustrious past and renewed hope for the future. The diamond jubilee is not merely a commemoration of achievements but a reaffirmation of the enduring values of faith, service, unity, and solidarity that have guided the association through the decades and will continue to inspire generations to come.