Bengaluru, February 8th, 2026:The Konkani Catholic Welfare Association (KCWA), R.T. 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 Rev.
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, R.T. 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 Mr. Anthony Gonsalves, Chairman of FKCA, as the Chief Guest, and
Rev. Fr. Prem Prakash Cutinha, CSSR, as the Guest of Honour.
The formal programme began with a graceful invocation through a Prayer Dance performed by
Ms. Sarah D’Souza. The event was compered by Ms. 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.
Mr. Anthony Gonsalves and Rev. Fr. Prem Prakash Cutinha delivered inspiring addresses,
encouraging unity, community participation, and continued service to society.
Felicitation of Shri Nishal Preetham D’Souza
A significant highlight of the evening was the felicitation of Shri Nishal Preetham D’Souza, son
of Shri Lancy D’Souza and Smt. Sharmila D’Souza.
He currently serves as General Secretary – Social Media, Social Justice Department, KPCC,
appointed by Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister Shri D.K. Shivakumar. He is also actively involved
with the Karnataka Christian Community Development Corporation (KCCDC) in implementing
welfare schemes backed by a ₹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 R.T. Nagar.
KCWA extended heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for his continued success.
Certificate of Excellence
Mrs. 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 Mr. Frederick D’Souza (79) and Mrs. 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)
Mr. Sylvian Noronha was acknowledged for sponsoring Academic Excellence Award, 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 the Mrs. Sharmila D’Souza, Secretary who expressed
gratitude to the dignitaries, priests, donors, sponsors, organizing committee, Office Bearers and
all Asociation members. Special appreciation was extended to the venue management, Blue
Birds Catering, DJ Nishal D’Souza, the lighting and sound team led by Mr. Gladson,
photographers Malcolm D’Souza and Lloyd Lewis, and Emcee Ms. Kavitha Rego.
Mr.Stephen Machado, President
Mr.Leo Lewis, Vice President
Mrs. Sharmila Dsouza, Secretary
Mr.Robert Mascarenhas, Joint Secretary
Mrs. Monica Pinto,Treasurer
Mr.Arthur Fernandes
Mr.Chethan Dsilva
Mr.Anil Lewis
Mr.Nishal Preetham Dsouza, Cultural secretary
Mr.Neville Dsouza
Mr.Blany Dsouza
Mr.Derrick Noronha
Mr Joseph Sequira
Mr.Alwyn Pinto
Mr Malcolm Dsouza
Cultural Extravaganza and Participation
The evening featured vibrant cultural performances showcasing the talents of KCWA members.
The programme was hosted by Ms. Nishma D’Souza, with coordination by Mrs. Sunitha Pinto,
Ms. Kavitha Rego, and Mr. Anil Lewis.
Highlights included a humorous segment by Mr. 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 Mrs. 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, cultural vibrancy.