Mangaluru: The Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI) celebrated the 184th Birth Anniversary of its founder, Rev. Fr Augustus Muller, SJ, with grandeur, unity, and joy. Held at the Father Muller Convention Centre, the event paid tribute to 145 years of FMCI’s legacy in healthcare and education, carrying forward its motto of “Heal and Comfort.”
A Grand Opening with Tradition and Tribute
The evening commenced with a magnificent procession, led by the rhythmic beats of Kudambi traditional dance, performed by Rajyotsava Awardee Mr. Shekhar Gowda Bajepa and team. Rev. Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho (Director, FMCI) and Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo (Designate Director, FMCI), along with the Managing Committee members, walked in unison, embodying the institution’s rich heritage.
A prayer song by the religious sisters of FMCI set the tone for the event, followed by a vibrant welcome dance by Father Muller Thumbay (FMT)—which includes Father Muller Hospital Thumbay (FMHT), Father Muller Nursing College Thumbay (FMNCT), and Father Muller Allied Health Sciences College Thumbay (FMAHSCT).
The dignitaries offered a floral tribute to Rev. Fr Augustus Muller, SJ, symbolizing FMCI’s deep reverence for its roots and founder’s vision.
Celebrating Family, Unity, and Triumph
In his heartfelt address, Rev. Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho described FMCI as a family built on a culture of love, emphasizing values of forgiveness, respect, and care. Drawing parallels between India’s unity in diversity and FMCI’s diverse institutions, he reinforced the shared purpose of service and healing.
💃 The cultural segment featured:
📌 “GIRL” – A gripping dance drama performed by Father Muller Homoeopathic Medical College & Hospital (FMHMC&H), Father Muller Homoeopathic Pharmaceutical Division (FMHPD), and Father Muller College of Pharmaceutical Sciences (FMCOPS).
📌 A high-energy, non-thematic dance by Father Muller College of Speech and Hearing (FMC(S&H)), Father Muller College of Nursing (FMCON), and Father Muller School of Nursing (FMSON).
🏆 The Founder’s Day Sports Event prize distribution recognized outstanding sportsmen and women for their achievements. Dr. Tanush Shetty (Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine) highlighted:
✔ Record-breaking participation of over 1,100 staff in various sporting events.
✔ The first-ever Seven’s Football Tournament for men.
✔ An IPL-style cricket auction, where 146 players were picked by eight team owners, comprising FMCI’s heads (four men and four women team owners).
Special commendations were given to:
✔ Mr Chandrasekhar, Mr Chennakeshava, and Mrs Sushmita, Physical Education instructors at Father Muller Indoor Stadium, for ensuring smooth event execution.
Unforgettable Performances & Community Spirit
🎭 The night continued with two spellbinding performances:
📌 “Colors of India” – A patriotic dance showcase by Father Muller Medical College (FMMC), Father Muller College of Allied Health Sciences (FMCOAHS), Father Muller College of Physiotherapy (FMCOP), and Father Muller Salvadore Monteiro Rural Health Training Centre, Bajpe (FMSMRHTC).
📌 “Family” – A touching performance by Father Muller Medical College Hospital (FMMCH), celebrating the bonds that unite FMCI.
🎶 The priests of FMCI management surprised the audience with a soulful qawwali performance, showcasing the institution’s inclusive and diverse spirit.
🙏 Rev. Sr Nancy Priya Mathias, Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), delivered the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to:
✔ Rev. Fr Ajith B Menezes (Administrator, FMMC/FMCOAHS/FMCOP) – for leading the cultural events.
✔ Rev. Fr Donald Nilesh Crasta (Asst. Administrator, FMMCH) – for coordinating logistics seamlessly.
🎤 The event was anchored by Dr. G Rajachandra (Associate Professor, FMHMC) and Mrs. Janice Leedle Crasta (Assistant Professor, FMCOPS), who kept the audience engaged throughout.
A Night of Celebration and Joy
🍽️ The evening concluded with a grand dinner, attended by over 3,000 guests, reinforcing FMCI’s strong sense of community.
🎧 The celebration didn’t stop there! The much-awaited DJ dance event saw attendees letting loose on the dance floor, embracing the spirit of togetherness and joy.
💖 With hearts full and spirits high, FMCI once again proved that its legacy is not just about history, but about love, service, and a commitment to excellence.
