Bishop Thomas Mathew of Indore Honoured with the Dainik Bhaskar Karamveer Award

Indore, May 29, 2025: Bishop Thomas Mathew Kuttimackal of the Diocese of Indore was recently conferred the prestigious Dainik Bhaskar Karamveer Award. The award, presented by Dainik Bhaskar, one of India’s most widely read Hindi dailies, honours individuals and institutions making exemplary contributions to society. Recognised for the Diocese’s outstanding work in the areas of education, healthcare, and social welfare, Bishop Mathew accepted the award on behalf of the entire diocese.

Speaking to Catholic Connect, Bishop Mathew expressed humility at receiving the honour. “I’ve been the Bishop of Indore for a little over a year now,” he said. “This award is not a recognition of my efforts. The real credit for this honour goes to my predecessors—past bishops, priests, nuns, and all the staff who have tirelessly worked in the schools, hospitals, and social institutions run by our diocese for many years.”

Each year, the Dainik Bhaskar Karamveer Awards recognise figures from diverse fields, including religious leaders, social workers, and industry professionals who have made a lasting difference in society. This year, Bishop Mathew and a Hindu religious figure were selected.

A Legacy of Service in Central India

The Diocese of Indore operates over 27 social service centres, schools, and rural development institutions across the districts of Indore, Dhar, and Dewas. Among its most notable institutions is St. Francis Hospital, which has earned a reputation for delivering compassionate, quality healthcare to the underserved.

In the field of education, the Diocese runs several diocesan schools and a well-regarded college, with a legacy of nurturing academic excellence and character formation.

Through the Indore Diocesan Social Service Society (IDSS), the Diocese reaches out to nearly 250 villages with over 20 different social welfare initiatives. These include animation programmes, the formation of self-help groups, and rural development projects. Small farmers receive organic farming support, including seeds and manure, through the cooperative society run by the diocese. Women are empowered through training in tailoring and the provision of sewing machines. Children who have dropped out of school benefit from non-formal education programmes. Skill development for youth and women has created livelihood opportunities and strengthened entire communities.

A Life Rooted in Faith and Service

Bishop Thomas Mathew Kuttimackal’s own journey to this point is marked by dedication and deep-rooted service. Born on February 25, 1962, in Kalloorkad in Kerala's Kothamangalam Diocese, he felt called to the priesthood as a teenager. After his initial formation in Kerala, he moved to Madhya Pradesh in 1979 and pursued philosophical and theological studies at the Khrist Premalaya Seminary in Bhopal. He was ordained a priest for the diocese of Indore in 1987.

His Priestly Journey

Bishop Mathew's journey of service began as an assistant priest at the cathedral of Indore (1987-1990). After serving at various churches, he served at St. Paul School in Indore, first as its vice principal from 1992 and then as principal from 1998 to 2002. He returned again in 2007 and, for the next 16 years, made significant contributions in the field of education. He also served as vice-rector of the minor seminary in Jhabua (2002-2004); parish priest in Dewas (2009-2015); parish priest and dean of Dewas (2015-2021); and parish priest of Indore Cathedral (2021-2024). On Feb. 17, 2024, Pope Francis appointed him Bishop of Indore.

Leading with Presence, Not Position

Bishop Mathew says that his role in the diocese is not just a position but an ocean of responsibilities. As a bishop, he emphasises grassroots engagement. “My work is not about sitting in an office giving orders,” he says. “It’s about going to the ground and understanding people’s needs.” He frequently visits rural areas to evaluate the Diocese’s schools, social centres, and outreach programmes firsthand.

Bishop Mathew believes that service to humanity is the greatest religion. “People often say they’ve never seen God. But when you did not feed the hungry or care for the sick, then you did nothing for God,” he says. “This is life’s simplest, yet deepest, truth.” In this vast society, the bishop sees himself as merely a drop, but a drop that contributes to the depth of the ocean. His mindset of service and simplicity teaches us that if our life is useful to others, that is true religion; that is true devotion.

Bishop Mathew’s humility and vision reflect the spirit in which the Diocese of Indore has served society for decades. The Dainik Bhaskar Karamveer Award stands as a testament to the enduring impact of the Diocese’s mission in transforming lives through education, healthcare, and social upliftment.

By Catholic Connect Reporter