Br. Eric Steve, Teacher of Bollywood Superstar and Meghalaya’s CM, Dies at 74

Shillong, October 14, 2024: Christian Brother Eric Steve D'Souza, a distinguished educator who taught Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, passed away on October 13 at the age of 74 in Goa. Brother D'Souza had been bedridden for five years due to advanced dementia and died at Shanti Niwas, a home for retired Christian Brothers in Vasco da Gama, Goa. His death was confirmed by Brother Edwin Stephen Fernandes, Provincial of the Christian Brothers in New Delhi.

Born on September 30, 1950, Brother D'Souza dedicated 58 years of his life to the Christian Brothers congregation, joining in 1966 and pronouncing his final vows in 1975. He spent decades teaching at schools across India including Assam, Meghalaya, New Delhi, Mangalore, and West Bengal. Fondly known as "Dasu," he was especially remembered for his time at St. Columba’s School, New Delhi where he taught Shah Rukh Khan and St. Edmund’s School, Shillong, where he taught Conrad Sangma.

Brother D'Souza was renowned for his innovative teaching methods using visual aids, humour and mind-mapping to make learning engaging. He also established vocational programs at Providence School, offering training in trades such as bakery, carpentry and sewing, which helped many students earn their livelihoods.

Brother Solomon Morris, principal of St. Edmund’s School, shared that Brother D'Souza's final wish was to be laid to rest in Meghalaya, where he had spent 28 years shaping the lives of students. His remains will be brought to Shillong on October 15, with the funeral scheduled for the following day.

Brother D'Souza’s contributions to education, especially his work with underprivileged children, have left an enduring legacy, making him a beloved figure in the community.

By Catholic Connect Reporter