Bengaluru Feb 14:The Konkani Catholic Welfare Association (KCWA), RT Nagar, celebrated its 27th annual get-together, ‘Sahamilan 2026’, on Sunday.

The celebrations commenced with a solemn Holy Eucharistic celebration at St Thomas the Apostle Church, Kanaka Nagar, at 4:00 pm. The Holy Mass was celebrated in Konkani by Fr Prem Prakash Cutinha, CSSR. The Eucharistic celebration set a meaningful and prayerful tone for the evening’s fellowship.

The gathering later moved to GC Convention Hall, Kanaka Nagar, RT Nagar, where members and guests assembled in large numbers. Snacks along with tea and coffee were served as the fellowship continued.

The event was graced by Anthony Gonsalves, chairman of FKCA, as the chief guest, and Fr Prem Prakash Cutinha, CSSR, as the guest of honour. The formal programme began with a graceful invocation through a prayer dance performed by Sarah D’Souza. The event was compered by Kavitha Rego.

Dignitaries, including the chief guest, guest of honour, past chairman of FKCA, president and secretary of KCWA, and past presidents of KCWA, were invited onto the dais. The inaugural ceremony was marked by the traditional lighting of the lamp. Anthony Gonsalves and Rev Fr Prem Prakash Cutinha delivered inspiring addresses, encouraging unity, community participation, and continued service to society.

Felicitation of Nishal Preetham D’Souza A significant highlight of the evening was the felicitation of Nishal Preetham D’Souza, son of Lancy D’Souza and Sharmila D’Souza. He currently serves as general secretary – social media, social justice department, KPCC, appointed by Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar. He is also actively involved with the Karnataka Christian Community Development Corporation (KCCDC) in implementing welfare schemes backed by a Rs 250 crore government allocation.

He was recently awarded the Service Medal by the Ministry of Home Affairs on January 26, 2026, for commendable service during the COVID-19 pandemic and disaster management efforts. He also serves as cultural secretary of FKCA and KCWA RT Nagar. KCWA extended heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for his continued success.

Certificate of Excellence Nynette Celine D’Souza was honoured with a Certificate of Excellence by Smaran Foundation in recognition of her exceptional dedication and outstanding contributions in the field of education. She was conferred the title “Exceptional Educator – 2025” for her commendable work in shaping young minds.

Golden Jubilee wedding felicitation The association proudly honoured Frederick D’Souza (79) and Jacintha D’Souza (75), married on April 9, 1972, at St Paul’s Church, Dadar, Mumbai. Celebrating 53 years of togetherness, the couple was felicitated amidst warm applause from members. They are blessed with two children – Harold D’Souza and Preethi D’Souza.

Academic excellence awards Students who excelled academically were felicitated, including:
• Aanya Michelle D’Souza (10th Standard)
• Jeslyn Amelia D’Souza (12th Standard)
• Michelle Fernandes (12th Standard)
• Tiara Stephanie Saldanha (12th Standard)
• Carolyn D’Sa (Chartered Accountant)

Sylvian Noronha was acknowledged for sponsoring the academic excellence awards, reflecting his commitment to promoting academic growth within the community.

Appreciation for sports achievements The president appreciated the enthusiastic participation of KCWA members in the FKCA Sports Day. Winners were personally felicitated with trophies amidst loud applause. Members were encouraged to continue striving for excellence in future events.

Welcome of new members and vote of thanks New members were warmly welcomed into the association. The vote of thanks was delivered by secretary Sharmila D’Souza, who expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, priests, donors, sponsors, organizing committee, office bearers, and all association members. Special appreciation was extended to the venue management, Blue Birds Catering, DJ Nishal D’Souza, the lighting and sound team led by Gladson, photographers Malcolm D’Souza and Lloyd Lewis, and emcee Kavitha Rego.

Office Bearers: Stephen Machado (President), Leo Lewis (Vice President), Sharmila D’Souza (Secretary), Robert Mascarenhas (Joint Secretary), Monica Pinto (Treasurer), Arthur Fernandes, Chethan D'Silva, Anil Lewis, Nishal Preetham D’Souza (Cultural Secretary), Neville D’Souza, Blany D’Souza, Derrick Noronha, Joseph Sequeira, Alwyn Pinto, Malcolm D’Souza.

Cultural extravaganza and participation The evening featured vibrant cultural performances showcasing the talents of KCWA members. The programme was hosted by Nishma D’Souza, with coordination by Sunitha Pinto, Kavitha Rego, and Anil Lewis. Highlights included a humorous segment by Stephen Machado, group dances, solo and duet performances, and a grand finale dance by 10 KCWA couples and three energetic gentlemen.

The event witnessed an overwhelming participation of over 270 members, reflecting strong unity and active engagement within the KCWA family.

Lucky draw and conclusion The much-awaited lucky draw added excitement, with Tressy Sadananda emerging as the winner. The programme concluded with an energetic baila dance followed by dinner, with DJ Nishal D’Souza adding vibrancy to the celebrations. Sahamilan 2026 stood as a grand success, marked by spiritual reflection, recognition of achievements, and cultural vibrancy.