Media Release
Dubai, Nov 28: Mangalore Konkans Dubai came together in heartfelt remembrance of Jocelyn Mascarenhas, who was born on September 22, 1944, and sadly passed away on September 27. The condolence meeting was held on Friday, November 22, at Winny's Restaurant Hall, Karama, Dubai, allowing friends, family, and community members to honour the life and legacy of this remarkable individual.
As the first president and a founding member of Mangalore Konkans Dubai since its inception in October 1988, Jocelyn played an instrumental role in uniting and uplifting the Mangalorean community in Dubai. His wife, Genevieve Mascarenhas, daughters Vanessa Mascarenhas and Gavin Mascarenhas as well as close friends, family, well-wishers, and Mangalore Konkan’s members were present to celebrate his life.
The gathering was gracefully hosted by Sweeny D’Souza, a cherished member of Mangalore Konkans and a well-known host in Dubai. Lancy Madtha, an esteemed entrepreneur, philanthropist, and vocalist, alongside Roshan D'Silva, began the evening with a prayer to commemorate Jocelyn's spirit.
James Mendonca, the current president of Mangalore Konkans Dubai and a dear friend of Jocelyn, shared insightful reflections about his mentor's vision for developing the Mangalorean and Konkani community. He remarked, "Jocelyn was a beacon of light, touching the lives of everyone he met. His insightful nature was evident through his public speaking skills, his beautiful writing, and the joy he found in music." He fondly remembered how Jocelyn and Genevieve danced to Wilfy Rebimbus's famous number 'Suryacha Kirnani', illustrating their deep love for one another.
Sweeny invited Alwyn Pinto, another founding member of Mangalore Konkans Dubai, to share his memories of Jocelyn. Filled with emotion, Alwyn described Jocelyn's unwavering care for his community, even during his illness. "His commitment to making the world around him beautiful was unmatched. He inspired all of us with his kindness and love for life," he noted. Alwyn also emphasized the dedication of Genevieve, their children, and granddaughter Jaden in caring for Jocelyn during his final days.
Attendees honoured Jocelyn's memory by showering rose petals upon his photograph. Roshan D'Silva composed and performed a heartfelt song dedicated to the late founding member, expressing the depth of gratitude felt by the Mangalore Konkans community for his selfless contributions.
Before concluding the evening, Gavin Mascarenhas expressed her family's gratitude on behalf of her father, stating, "Mangalore Konkans Dubai was his family, and he cherished friendships everywhere he went. Even if he met someone for just five minutes, he made them feel special. His love and life remain our inspiration, and while we will miss him physically, we believe he continues to bless and guide us spiritually."
The condolence meeting concluded with a communal dinner, reflecting the warmth and unity that Jocelyn Mascarenhas fostered within the Mangalore Konkans community.
Tribute from Mangalore Konkans Dubai
In quiet moments, we remember you,
A gentle soul, so loving and true.
Your laughter, your kindness, forever will stay,
Guiding our hearts, lighting our way.
Though you have departed, your spirit shines on,
In every shared memory, in the love that you've drawn.
Rest now in peace, dear friend we hold near,
In our hearts, you’ll always be here.