Media Release

Bengaluru, Sep 24: Kanara Catholic Association (KCA) Bengaluru convened their 71st Annual General Body Meeting at the Konkan Samudhai Bhavan, Bengaluru, on Sunday, September 21.

The morning commenced with Mass celebrated by Fr Sandeep Menezes CSsR who delivered a pertinent homily of courage and strength. The choir elevated the Mass proceedings with stirring hymns in English and Konkani. Keeping with tradition, the Maria Bambina was venerated with the culturally joyous showering of blooms and petals to Konkani hymns that connect Mangalurean Catholics to their roots.

The AGM was brought to order by the joint secretary Coreen D’Souza Fareed followed by the opening prayer by Karen Pais Prabhu. President Shanti Peres delivered the Welcome Note extending gratitude for the support from her committee and generous donors. The secretary’s Report was delivered with crisp clarity by outgoing managing committee members detailing the achievements, projects, outreach and impact of the KCA’s various initiatives undertaken over the year. The segments included faith & thanksgiving, camaraderie, culture & tradition, charitable projects, travel, digital outreach, events, health & fitness, the platinum jubilee, youth programmes and the ongoing KCA membership database & cards drive.

Treasurer Ajay Fernandes shared details of the auditors’ report & financial statements of the KCA as well as the KWT. Kenneth Peres provided an update on the KCA land matter. Coreen delivered the vote of thanks along with the managing committee’s stepping down from office. Returning officer, Bertha Fernandes, oversaw the election process and formally installed the incoming KCA managing committee.

The KCA Bangalore managing committee 2025-26 are: Shanti Peres (president), Roshan Menezes (vice president), Palini Pinto (secretary), Ajay Fernandes (treasurer), Coreen Dsouza Fareed (joint secretary) and managing committee members: Crystal Crasta, Dianney Lobo, Jane Pereira, Joanita Britto, Karen Pais Prabhu, Lunita Pais D’Sa, Luvena Rangel, Prajwal Mathias, Reena Serrao, Rohan Pais, Susan Gojer, Tina Alva and Violet Ferrao.

This year, the Manik Lifetime Achievement Award was conferred upon Dr Philomena Peris for her exemplary contributions to the community. The award is for successfully accomplished individuals of our community in various fields of social impact, business and philanthropy and for having contributed substantial time and expertise to help build the community.

The day concluded with a sumptuous traditional Monthi Fest lunch and fellowship that highlighted culture and celebrated abundance. DJ Neil Hoskins’ music ensured our members were entertained throughout lunch with some gladly gracing the dance floor to popular Konkani songs.

The 71st AGM was well attended; all proceedings completed in a dignified manner, ably emceed by Luvena Rangel.