Kanara Cultural Association (KCA) Delhi, which is in existence in the National Capital of India for nearly six decades, honoured senior members of the Association on Sunday, April 22, 2018. The function was held at Yusuf Sadan, 1 Ashoka Place, New Delhi. Eminent Mangloreans, Mr. Maxwell Pereira, former Joint Commissioner of Delhi Police, Mr. Alwyn Norohna, Vice President ITC and Archbishop Emeritus Vincent Concessao to name a few, among the 60 persons who were honoured in an impressive function.

The function started with a thanksgiving Eucharistic celebration in Konkani lead by Fr. Victor D’souza, KCA’s first spiritual director, concelebrated by Fr. Anil Walder, present spiritual director, Fr. Charles D’souza, Fr. Norbert D’souza and Fr. Vijay Baretto. Fr. Anil Walder in his homily recalled the sacrifice and hard work of our seniors that has helped us to become what we are today. During the Eucharist the deceased members of KCA were remembered.

After the Holy Eucharist, Cultural Secretary of KCA Mr. Melwin Lobo explained the importance of the function and invited KCA President to welcome the gathering. Mr. Vincent Menezes extended a warm welcome to all present. He also recalled the services of eminent Mangloreans who brought glory to the community and KCA with sheer heights they reached in the government or in their field of activity. Many of them, though old now, yet in response to KCA’s invitation, he noted, have taken trouble to be present. He also expressed happiness for the presence of former KCA presidents and office bearers in big numbers. The highlight of the function was little Riva Monterio’s performance. Her fluent Konkani mesmerized everyone. She assured the elders that the younger generation of KCA will always try to uphold the traditions of the community and Konkani language.

Eighty seven year old Mrs. Dulcine Pinto and 91 year old Mr. Alex Danty along with KCA’s first spiritual director Fr. Victor D’souza cut the cake. Mr. Pius Monterio raised the toast and emphasized the presence of elders in an association is a matter of great joy as they are a source of wisdom and provide guidance to the younger generation.

Mr. Simon Lobo former president of KCA in his reply expressed his happiness for organizing a programme to honour senior members of KCA as he could meet many friends and interact with former office bearers. Thereafter each senior member was called on the dais and honoured with a shawl and flowers.

Surprise event of the function was Archbishop Emeritus Vincent Concessao released for KCA Maxwell Pereira’s’ latest book “The Tandoor Murder: The crime that shook the nation and brought a government to its knees. Mrs. Monica D’Souza gave a brief introduction of the well known author Mr. Maxwell Pereira and many took the advantage of having a copy signed by the author.

KCA Secretary, Anil Pereira proposed vote of thanks.

Lunch was served to all present, prepared by KCA members. Everybody appreciated the authentic Manglorean food.