Mangaluru: Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI) organised a condolence meet to pay tribute to former Indian president Dr Abdul Kalam’s character and excellence at the Decennial Hall, FMCI campus here, on July 29.
The programme began with a prayer song. A documentary depicting the life of Dr Abdul Kalam was presented to the gathering.
Dean of FMMC Dr Jayaprakash Alva elaborated the significance of the occasion. He briefed the gathering about Dr Abdul Kalam’s early life and achievements. The director, administers, chief of medical services, heads of various institutes and student representatives payed their respects by showering flower petals on the portrait Dr Abdul Kalam. It was followed by a minute of silence for his departed soul.
Dr Sena Solomon, PG student in the department of Anaesthesiology, condoled the loss of Dr Kalam with the gathering. A song was dedicated to the former president by the students, which was sung by Jacqueline Fernandes and Justin Jason.
Dr Nanda Kishore, Professor in the Department of Dermatology, expressed his thoughts on Dr Kalam. He said that 27 July was a very sad day for Indians. “Whatever we see as negative, he took it in a positive way. He always motivated the youth to dream bigger and aim higher.”
Speaking on the occasion, Fr Patrick Rodrigues said that in the long history of Father Mullers, there are two events that are “indelible”, “unforgettable”. “The first one was the visit of Blessed Mother Theresa to this institution in the year 1980. The second event was on 9th of December 2007 when His Excellency Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, the former president, visited this institution to inaugurate the Oncology department. He was excited about many things, had asked many questions. He bid farewell to the world doing what he loved, teaching students. May his soul rest in peace.”
Sr Winfred, Principal of College of Nursing, delivered the vote of thanks.