Pics: Nithin Pereira
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi
Udupi, Apr 6: In a remarkable blend of music, compassion, and community service, the Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh (R) successfully hosted ‘Sumadhur Sanz’, a grand musical fundraising event by Joshal D'Souza, on April 5 at the Mount Rosary Church grounds. The event, aimed at supporting the medical infrastructure of Goretti Hospital, raised an impressive fund of Rs 1 crore.
The musical evening, led by popular singer Joshal D’Souza and her team, turned into a vibrant celebration of fellowship and generosity. The programme was dedicated entirely to Goretti Hospital, a healthcare institution that has been serving the region for over 65 years.
Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, Apostolic Administrator of Udupi Diocese, was felicitated for his constant support to the Catholic Sabha during his tenure as the Bishop of Udupi. In his address, he said, "Our diocese has completed 10 years, and through our health commission, we continue to provide benefits to the people. Today, we see the Catholic Sabha contributing dialysis machines and healthcare support. Ronald D’Almeida and his team had a big dream of contributing Rs 1 crore to Goretti Hospital, which they have successfully fulfilled. I thank all donors who have displayed their humanity. Our vision is that no one in this district should be pushed into poverty due to healthcare, housing, or education costs."
Fr Ferdinand Gonsalves, spiritual director of the Catholic Sabha, noted that the initiative aligns with the World Health Organisation’s vision of accessible healthcare. He also lauded Joshal D’Souza for inspiring young talent through her music.
Philanthropist Joseph Menezes was honoured for his contribution towards dialysis patients through Trinity Healthcare Services. He remarked, "True celebration is about sharing. If we have good health, we must help those who cannot afford treatment. The vision of the Catholic Sabha has become a reality today."
Fr Denis D’Sa, PRO of Udupi Diocese, shared his personal connection to the hospital, noting he was born there. He praised the Catholic Sabha for "thinking out of the box" by focusing on healthcare, which provides a new lease of life to the needy.
In his presidential address, Ronald D’Almeida, president of Catholic Sabha Udupi, said, "With the support of generous donors, we have provided three dialysis machines. We have also received sponsorship for an ambulance, which will be delivered within two months. In the future, we plan to introduce health cards to provide concessions at the hospital."
A cheque of Rs 1 crore was formally handed over to the management of Goretti Hospital for the development of its facilities and dialysis centre. Joshal D’Souza and Ronald D’Almeida were also felicitated on the occasion.
Several dignitaries were present on the dais, including Archibald Furtado, president of Catholic Sabha Mount Rosary unit; Santhosh D’Souza, president of Catholic Sabha Mangalore Pradesh; Sr Leena V J, superior of Goretti Convent; Sr Zareena Lobo, administrator of Goretti Hospital; Fr Roque D’Souza, parish priest of Mount Rosary; and various deanery presidents and past officials of the Sabha.
Archibald Furtado welcomed the gathering, while secretary Joel Almeida proposed the vote of thanks. Leslie Aroza compered the formal stage programme.
The mega musical evening enthralled the audience with performances by Joshal D’Souza and her team. Sanjay Rodrigues and his band provided the musical backing, while ‘Team Memory’ Mangalore entertained the crowd with comedy skits. The musical nite was compered by Nelson Monis, with dance performances by Team Urban Groove.