Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (EP)
Mangaluru, Jan 30: “The great political leader of candid personality seen by the country, George Fernandes grew as an example to others throughout his life. Simplicity, sincerity, democracy and nationalism were the breadth of George of Fernandes. That made the entire world identify him,” said Daijiworld magazine editor Hemacharya. He was giving a key note address in the district level volleyball tournament held in memory of former union defence minister Padma Vibushan George Fernandes by nationalist Catholic forum.
“George Fernandes who was born in Mangaluru left his hometown during his youth, migrated to Mumbai, campaigned in unity for workers and the downtrodden and grew up as a great leader. His influence could be seen in the protests called by him. The word ‘Bund’ began after his protests. He later became popular in the politics of the country and showed the capacity of India through Pokhran nuclear test together with the then prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and president Dr A P J Abdul Kalam. He became railway minister and presented to the country Konkan Railway project that was a long felt dream of the coast in record time,” he said.
Entrepreneur and former president of Konkani Sahitya Academy Roy Castelino said that the members of nationalist Catholic Forum are less but the shape and intention of the programmes being taken up by them are unimaginable. Ace Builders proprietor Gregory D’ Silva lighted the lamp, inaugurated the tournament and congratulated the organizers. Local hotelier Jayaprakash Rao, district BJP spokesperson Sathish Prabhu, forum guide Vincent D’ Cunha and Juliet D’ Cunha couple, Mannagudde Yogish Acharya, Mangala friends circle Urwa stores president Nagesh A, forum leaders Roshan D’ Souza, Melvin Ferrao, Prakash D’Souza and others were present.
Indian Army officer Lieutenant Colonel Gratian Sequeira, Mrs World Super Model 2019 winner Dr Priya Arun, state level former Volleyball player Dr Meera Ramesh, guests of honor distributed prizes.
Nationalist Catholic Forum founder and convener Franklin Monteiro welcomed and rendered vote of thanks. Teacher Rajendra Kumar compered. The winners were presented trophy, cash prizes and honored.
The following were the winning teams:
Boy’s division:
First prize – St Aloysius English medium school, Urva
Second prize – Canara High School, Urva
Third prize – Bharati English medium school, Kulai
Fourth prize – Al Badriya English medium school, Katipalla
Girl’s division:
First prize – Government higher primary school, Bandaaru, Uppinangady
Second prize – Lady Hill Victoria Girl’s High school, ‘A’ team
Third prize – Lady Hill Victoria Girl’s High School, ‘B’ team
Fourth prize – Bharati English medium school, Kulai