- 22 July, 2025
GOA, July 22, 2025: The Dalgado Konknni Akademi (DKA), an institution dedicated to the promotion of Konkani in the Roman script, in collaboration with New Age Printers, Verna—a diocesan press—paid tribute to its founding president, Fr. Freddy J. Da Costa, on the occasion of his 72nd birth anniversary. The event also marked the celebration of 25 years of dedicated service by New Age Printers, an establishment founded by Fr. Freddy.
The commemorative ceremony took place at the premises of New Age Printers in Verna. The Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, Simião Fernandes, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Former Chief Minister of Goa and Rajya Sabha Member, Mr. Luizinho Faleiro, was the Special Invitee, while Mr. Celso Fernandes, President of DKA, presided over the function.
Other dignitaries present on the dais included Fr. Ave Maria Afonso, Parish Priest of St. Thomas Church, Cansaulim; Fr. Noel Dcosta, Financial Administrator of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman; Fr. Myron Barreto, Manager of New Age Printers and Secretary of DKA; and Mr. Fausto V. Da Costa, Editor of GULAB Konkani monthly.
Speaking on the occasion, Bishop Simião Fernandes urged the gathering to work generously for the cause of the Konkani language.
Highlighting the vision of Fr. Freddy J. Da Costa, he creatively used the acronym NAP—representing New Age Printers—to pay tribute to the founder:
N = Nirnnoi (Decision)
A = Avhanam (Challenges)
P = Patievop (Trust)
Bishop Simião remarked that Fr. Freddy made a bold decision to establish New Age Printers, courageously faced the challenges that came with it, and placed his complete trust in God's providence.
“This press,” he said, “has served and continues to serve the Konkani language—not only by printing religious literature in Konkani, but also a wide range of other Konkani writings.”
He also fondly recalled the contributions of Fr. Adrian Furtado, the first manager of the press, and his assistants. He commended Fr. Myron Barreto for his enthusiastic and effective leadership in continuing this legacy. He also congratulated the employees of the press.
Highlighting Fr. Freddy’s commitment to Konkani and the press, Mr. Luizinho Faleiro praised Fr. Freddy’s vision and leadership qualities. He said that Fr. Freddy created this press as an asset not only to Goa but also to the Church.
Mr. Fausto V. Da Costa, brother of Fr. Freddy and Editor of GULAB, also shared his reflections on the journey and significance of New Age Printers.
In his presidential address, Mr. Celso Fernandes commended Fr. Freddy’s monumental contribution to the Konkani language, especially in the Roman script, and his visionary role as the founding president of the Dalgado Konknni Akademi.
A special highlight of the evening was the release of the book Utth Gõykara-II, a collection of editorials of GULAB by Fr Freddy J. Da Costa. The book was launched by Bishop Simião Fernandes and was introduced to the audience by Fr. Ave Maria Afonso.
Bishop Simião Fernandes and other dignitaries offered floral petals to the photo of Fr. Freddy J. Da Costa. In his welcome address, Fr. Myron Barreto recalled the historical events associated with the printing press.
As a token of appreciation, employees of New Age Printers who served more years were honoured during the event.
The evening was enlivened with Konkani songs by Arossim Chapel youth and children. Ms. Sonia Gomes served as the anchor for the programme, while Mr. William Fernandes proposed the vote of thanks.
By Bro Malvino Alfonso
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