Bengaluru, June 21, 2026: The Federation of Konkani Catholic Associations (FKCA) celebrated its 28th Federation Day at St. Joseph's University Auditorium, Langford Road, Bengaluru, bringing together members of its affiliated associations, clergy, public representatives, entrepreneurs, professionals and guests. The annual event featured cultural performances, the presentation of the FKCA Awards, the announcement of the FKCA Online Singing Competition results and the recognition of individuals for their contributions to society and the community.

The programme began with cultural performances compered by Shainy Pinto , The opening segment included a welcome dance by KCA Mathikere, a duet performance by members of SVPKK and MKCK, a group song by KCA Mathikere, and performances Dr Silviniya Fernandes and Master Ayush Menezes by the winners of the FKCA Online Singing Competition 2024. The programme also featured two Konkani plays,Ijjabache Ajap and Vodlimai-che Morn, presented by artistes representing KCWA Kuwait and KCWA RT Nagar. Dance performances by Konkani Samudai Jayanagar, KCA Bangalore and SVPKK formed part of the cultural programme.

The formal proceedings commenced with Roshan Sequeira and Kiran D'Souza. compering and the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by Most Rev. Dr. Leslie Clifford D'Souza, Bishop of Udupi Diocese; Shri Ivan D'Souza, Member of the Karnataka Legislative Council; Roy Castelino, President of the Rachana Catholic Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Anil Lobo, Chairman of MCC Bank; Walter Nandalike, Founder and Managing Director of Daijiworld Media Pvt. Ltd.; Rev. Dr. Victor Lobo SJ; FKCA Chairman Antony Gonsalves; General Secretary Zaveena Lobo; Immediate Past Chairman Robert Cutinha; Spiritual Director Rev. Dr. Francis Assisi Almeida, along with office bearers of FKCA. An invocation dance by Konkani Samudai Jayanagar preceded the formal programme. Welcoming the gathering, Chairman Anthony Gonsalves outlined FKCA's activities and its continued efforts towards promoting the Konkani language, culture and community engagement.

General Secretary Zaveena Lobo presented the Annual Report, highlighting the Federation's initiatives and programmes undertaken during the past year. The report was accompanied by an audio-visual presentation showcasing the activities of the Executive Committee and its affiliated associations.

The presentation of the annual FKCA Awards formed a major part of the programme. The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Archbishop Emeritus Most Rev. Bernard Moras in recognition of his lifelong service to the Church and society.

Addressing the gathering, Archbishop Moras said that serving God is reflected through service to people and appreciated FKCA for recognising individuals whose work benefits the community. The Entrepreneur of the Year Award was presented to Keith Machado, Managing Director of Orione Hydraulics Pvt. Ltd., for his contribution to the manufacturing industry. In his acceptance speech, he thanked FKCA for the recognition and shared his entrepreneurial journey.

The Professional Excellence Award was presented to Dr. Oscar G. Concessao, Co-founder and Principal Architect of Oscar Ponni Rahul Architects, Chennai, in recognition of his achievements in architecture. He acknowledged the support of his family, mentors and colleagues and encouraged young professionals to pursue entrepreneurship with commitment and perseverance.

The Special Community Service Recognition Award was presented to Chevalier Nigel Fernandes for his contributions to church and community initiatives over several years. He thanked FKCA for the recognition and appreciated the Federation's efforts in serving the Konkani Catholic community.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Ivan D'Souza, MLC, congratulated the award recipients and appreciated FKCA for recognising individuals from different fields whose achievements continue to inspire the younger generation.

The Chief Guest Shri U. T. Khader, Hon’ble Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka congratulated FKCA on completing 28 years and acknowledged the contribution of Catholic institutions in the fields of education, healthcare and social welfare. He called upon citizens to work towards social harmony and contribute to nation-building. Delivering the Presidential Address, Most Rev. Dr. Leslie Clifford D'Souza, Bishop of Udupi Diocese, congratulated FKCA on its 28th Federation Day and encouraged the community to continue its service initiatives while preserving its cultural identity.

The announcement of the FKCA Online Singing Competition 2026 results. Nishal Preetham D'Souza, Cultural Secretary of FKCA, The Online Singing Competition, organised by FKCA, attracted entries from young singers across the globe through online video submissions. The competition was judged by Darrel Mascarenhas,Stan D'Souza and Clerita Lobo. Following the evaluation, Neorah Noronha of Bantwal, Mangaluru, was declared the Winner, Leona Oliveria of Perampalli, Udupi, secured the Runner-up position, while Sweedal Andrade of Udyavar, Udupi, was announced as the Second Runner-up. FKCA also acknowledged the participation of all contestants and thanked the judges, parents and supporters for contributing to the competition.

The final cultural segment featured Ghumta performances by member associations including St. Vincent Pallotti Konkani Kutam (Banaswadi), Konkani Samudai Jayanagar, BKCS Koramangala, KCWA RT Nagar and KCA Bangalore, highlighting the traditional folk art of the Konkani community.

The programme concluded with the felicitation of sponsors, prize distribution for the Online Singing Competition and the Federation Day lucky draw. The programme concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by Sharon Rego Vice Chairman 1, who acknowledged the support of St. Joseph's University, the dignitaries, award recipients, member associations, volunteers and all those associated with the event. William Pinto, Vice Chairman
2 thanked the event sponsors for their valuable contribution towards the successful organisation of the celebrations.
FKCA also acknowledged the support of its affiliated associations and youth volunteers, noting that their collective efforts played an important role in the planning and execution of the 28th Federation Day programme.

The 28th Federation Day reflected FKCA's continued efforts to promote the Konkani language and culture, recognise achievements within the community, encourage young talent and strengthen collaboration among its affiliated associations.