Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 23: The ‘Donating Love’ musical fundraiser, organized by Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI), set a historic precedent in philanthropy, blending art with an altruistic mission. Held at the Father Muller Convention Centre, the event raised vital funds for the Father Muller Dialysis Fund, ensuring that financially struggling kidney patients receive the treatment they desperately need.
A grand inauguration
The evening commenced with an elegant inaugural ceremony, guided by the event’s emcee. The soulful welcome song Chaar Disachan, performed by children, set a heartfelt tone for the night. Distinguished guests were honored with bouquets, followed by an inspiring welcome speech by FMCI director Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, who highlighted the institution’s unwavering commitment to compassionate healthcare. The ceremonial lighting of the lamp symbolized hope and new beginnings.
The event’s chief guest, Michael D’Souza, a noted NRI philanthropist from Mangaluru-Dubai and UAF, delivered a powerful address, urging the community to support the noble cause. The inaugural ceremony concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by advocate Liston D’Souza, a key member of Team Donating Love, recognizing the tireless efforts of all contributors.
A star-studded musical extravaganza
The audience was treated to an enthralling opera and dramatic musical composition led by the legendary Vincent Fernandes Cascia of Mogache Laran fame and team, captivating hearts and minds alike.
Key Performances
Dance numbers:
- Tu Somzun Gey – Vincent Fernandes
- Moga Mun Apoitalo – Rony D’Cunha
- Sontos Pavli – Preema D’Souza
- Kalzach Ya Altareer – Robin and Carol
- Sobith Tu Manna – Jason
- Na Sodchina – Vincent and Shilpa
- Hazar Fulla Modey – Rony D’Cunha
Dramatic and theatrical showcases:
- Donating Love – A 2D play performed by Nagendra, Shilpa, Josha, and Vincent
- Sasumai – A musical comedy featuring Sapna, Roshan, and Jeshma
More dance numbers:
- Facebook (Tulu song) – Vincent Fernandes
- Mogacha Ya Laranth – Rony and Preema
- Vorsa Zali Don Don – Joshal
- Riyona – Robin
- Yorey Yorey Muja Moga – Asha Fernandes
- Suzanna – Rony D’Cunha
- Cha-Cha-Cha – Preema
Comedy play:
Soulful musical pieces:
- Ashetali – Shilpa
- Bus Love – Vincent Fernandes
Special performances:
- Elvira – Patient, Vincent, and Robin
- Lilly – A signature song by Vincent Fernandes
- Baila grand finale – Performed by Veera, Rony, Ozie, Melvin, and Leo
Key figures behind the success
The event’s success was made possible by the relentless efforts of several key individuals and teams:
- Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, director, FMCI – A guiding force behind the event’s execution
- Fr Ajith B Menezes, administrator, FMMC/FMCOAHS/FMCOP – The mastermind who meticulously planned this initiative over five months
- Fr George Jeevan Sequeira, administrator, FMMCH – Spearheading the dialysis unit operations
- Advocate Liston D’Souza and Team Donating Love – Strategizing and budgeting for the event
- Ronald Colaco, patron of the programme – A vital supporter of the cause
- Walter Nandalike – Providing video promotions and widespread outreach
Event sponsors and donors:
- Ivan D’Souza (MLC), Roy Castelino, Stany Alvares, and Eric Ozario, whose presence and sponsorships strengthened the event’s impact
Why this fundraiser matters?
In the financial year 2023-24 alone, FMCI provided over Rs 102 crore in healthcare concessions, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring no patient is denied treatment due to financial constraints. Dialysis is an expensive, lifelong necessity for many, often placing immense financial burdens on families.
Despite the hospital’s efforts and donor contributions from Avinash Parasa, Dr Derek Lobo’s Cecelia Memorial Trust, Late Lawrence Fund, Jamath Ul Falah, and the Hubert D’Souza Dialysis Fund, the demand for financial aid continues to rise. This fundraiser aims to establish a dedicated dialysis fund, much like the existing cancer fund, to provide greater assistance to underprivileged patients.
A Call for Compassion and Action
Father Muller Charitable Institutions remain a beacon of hope, healing, and humanity. With ticket sales of Rs 1,000 per entry, this event not only provided world-class entertainment but also played a pivotal role in saving lives. The medical staff and technicians at FMCI continue to be the unsung heroes, working tirelessly to provide empathetic and professional care.
Corporates, philanthropists, and individuals are invited to extend their generosity through sponsorships or direct contributions.
Together, let’s make a difference—one note, one step, one donation at a time.