Media Release

Udupi, Aug 28: The Cornelio family, rooted in the Kakkunje-Ambagilu area, has recently embarked on a new chapter that emphasizes the importance of tradition, love, and family ties. The Cornelio Family Get-Together was celebrated with great joy and success at the Ocean Pearl Hotel, where the family gathered to remember their ancestral roots.

Dr Leslie Clifford D'Souza, the bishop of the Udupi diocese, inaugurated the event, recognizing the special contributions of the Cornelio family to the diocese. He expressed hopes that their efforts would not stop here and that their endeavor to unite family members would be successful in the future.

The history of the Cornelio lineage begins from the Kakkunje-Ambagilu soil. This sacred land, where the family tree first sprouted, has expanded in various directions. The effort to bring every family member, recognized for their excellence in education, work, and social contributions across the country and abroad, under one roof is indeed commendable.

For the first time in history, members of the Cornelio family, including seniors, juniors, and children, gathered—a significant highlight of the event. Seniors reminisced about their childhood, shared old memories, and reflected on the family’s history. This platform allowed the younger generation and children, who may not know each other well, to learn about their roots and relatives. Smiles, conversations, and shared meals enriched the cultural ambiance of the gathering.

This event not only serves as a day of connection but also paves the way for future, larger goals. It aims to promote continuous contact and camaraderie among family members, support the younger generation in their education, careers, and personal development, and collaboratively devise plans for social initiatives and family growth.

Organizer Melvin Cornelio welcomed everyone with preliminary remarks. Various family members, young and old, who have made achievements in different fields were honored with awards. Father Francis Cornelio, a family member and church leader from Padukone, conveyed his best wishes to all the Cornelio’s. He also explained the significance of the Cornelio surname, noting its widespread presence in the surrounding areas. This event marks a milestone in understanding the roots of the Cornelio family.

Dr Neri Cornelio, a renowned educationist, conveyed his congratulations to the organizers and the entire Cornelio family. He noted that many Cornelios have achieved significant success and brought honor to society. He also shared a brief history of Christians during the British era and mentioned how their ancestors survived the challenges posed by Tippu Sultan.

During the function, the Cornelio family roots were explained in groups based on their relatives, giving everyone the opportunity to learn about each other. Present were genealogist and scientist Dr Michael Lobo, entrepreneur, Wilson Fernandes, and prominent individuals such as Veronica Cornelio, Hilda Cornelio, Stephen Cornelio, Ida Cornelio, Thomas Cornelio, and others.

Rev Leo Cornelio, retired bishop, conveyed his best wishes through online, and many others also sent their good wishes. Fr Alban D’Souza, rector and parish priest, St Lawrence Basilica, Attur, from Karkala and Fr Anil Cornelio were present during the function.

Additionally, Melwyn Cornelio and Jennifer Cornelio, who led the organization of the event, were honored. Committee member Santosh Cornelio expressed gratitude, and the event was narrated by Steven Kulaso Udyavar.